Navigating Norwegian Visa and Immigration for International Businesses

Norway offers a remarkably open business environment that actively encourages foreign investment and international collaboration. Many Chinese companies expanding overseas find Norway's commercial landscape particularly appealing. Understanding Norwegian visa requirements is essential for successful market entry, with the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) overseeing all immigration matters under the framework of Norway's Immigration Act.

Since August 24, 2017, the Agreement between China and Norway on mutual visa exemption for diplomatic passport holders has been in effect. Chinese citizens with valid diplomatic passports can stay in Norway and other Schengen area countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without requiring a visa.

Employee Categories by Geographic Origin

All EU/EEA nationals enjoy the right to work in Norway without restrictions. These individuals can relocate and commence employment immediately, though they must register with local police within three months of arrival. Registration is free of charge, with citizens of Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland having simplified procedures through the National Population Register.

For non-EU/EEA citizens planning to stay beyond 90 days, a residence permit becomes mandatory. Hong Kong residents not covered by visa exemption agreements can apply for short-term stays through Finnish consular services, while those with valid Hong Kong residence permits exceeding six months may submit long-term Norwegian residence applications through Finnish visa centers.

Norwegian Visa Categories

Airport Transit Visa (Type A): For international transit passengers not entering Norwegian territory
Short-stay Visa (Type C): The most common visa for tourism, business, and family visits, allowing stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period
Long-stay Visa (Type D): Designed for extended purposes including employment, studies, and family reunification
Other Specialized Visas

Residence Permits in Norway

Chinese nationals requiring stays exceeding 90 days must obtain residence permits through Norwegian embassies or consulates. The initial work permit typically lasts one year, renewable annually, with permanent residence eligibility after three consecutive years.

Residence Permit Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be at least 18 years old
Employment terms must meet or exceed Norwegian industry standards
Positions must demonstrate inability to be filled by domestic or EEA/EFTA labor
A formal job offer from a Norwegian employer is required

Application Process Overview

Initial residence permits may be granted for up to five years, with minimum one-year durations standard. Applicants must determine the appropriate permit category and ensure they meet China's residence requirements before applying. The process involves online registration, fee payment, document submission, and in-person appointments.

Successful applicants receive visa labels in their passports, while rejected applications include detailed explanations. Upon arrival in Norway, permit holders must schedule appointments with local police for residence card processing.

Norwegian Work Visa Options

General Work Visa: Six-month visa for job seekers without specific employer contracts
Seasonal Work Visa: Maximum six-month validity for temporary seasonal employment
Long-term Work Visa: Employer-specific contracts for extended employment periods
Skilled Worker Visa: For qualified professionals with higher education or specialized training
Job Seeker Visa: Facilitates active job searching while residing in Norway

Standard Work Visa Application Procedure

Secure employment contract with Norwegian employer
Employer submits work permit application to NAV (Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration)
Employee completes visa application process
Await UDI processing and decision

Long-term Work Visa Documentation

Applicants must provide passport originals and organized documentation including:

Two completed application forms
Recent passport photographs
Family situation and applicant report forms
Passport copies and authorization documents
Employer invitation letter with detailed work description
Certified educational credentials
Norwegian accommodation confirmation

Visa Fee Structure

Work residence permits cost 6,300 NOK, with employer group permits charged per worker. Additional service fees apply at visa application centers:

Service Type	CNY (incl. tax)	EUR (incl. tax)
Courier Service	80	10.31
Photo Service	45	5.81
Copy Service	3	0.39
Printing Service (per page)	10	1.29
SMS Notification	18	2.32
Translation Services	100/125	12.89/16.11

Processing Timelines

Standard processing varies by visa category: skilled worker applications average two months, seasonal visas approximately four months, and general work visas around six months. Oslo's 2023 pilot program has dramatically reduced processing times from 37 weeks to just three days in specific cases, addressing critical talent shortages.

Companies like SailGlobal have successfully navigated these processes, with one technology firm recently relocating 15 skilled workers to Oslo within record timeframes. Another manufacturing company utilized seasonal work visas effectively during Norway's peak tourism season, demonstrating the system's flexibility when properly managed.

Complete Guide to Norway Work Visas and Immigration for International Employers