Norway, known for its breathtaking fjords, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, is a top travel destination in Northern Europe. Whether you are planning a leisure trip, a business visit, or a study opportunity, obtaining the correct Schengen Visa is essential for non-Schengen nationals. Since Norway is part of the Schengen Area, travelers from countries that do not have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Zone must apply for a Schengen Visa before visiting.
A Schengen Visa for Norway allows visitors to stay in the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa also grants access to other Schengen countries, making it ideal for those planning to explore multiple destinations in Europe. However, if Norway is your primary destination or the first point of entry, you must submit your application to the Norwegian consulate or an authorized visa center.
This guide provides a detailed overview of Norway’s Schengen Visa application process, covering the types of visas available, necessary documentation, visa fees, processing times, tracking procedures, and travel insurance requirements. Additionally, as Indian nationals form one of the largest applicant groups, a dedicated section highlights specific requirements and best practices to help ensure a successful visa application.
By following this guide, you will gain a complete understanding of how to apply for a Norway Schengen Visa, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process for your upcoming visit to this beautiful Scandinavian country.
Norway: Schengen Visa Requirements and Travel Insurance
Norway, a country known for its stunning landscapes, northern lights, and high standard of living, is a part of the Schengen Area. This means that travelers from non-Schengen countries must obtain a Schengen Visa to visit Norway for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
A Norway Schengen Visa allows visitors to enter Norway and other Schengen member countries without needing separate visas. Whether you are traveling for tourism, business, study, or family visits, you must ensure that you meet all the visa application requirements set by the Norwegian authorities.
One of the essential aspects of a Schengen Visa for Norway is obtaining valid travel insurance. The insurance policy must cover at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, hospital treatment, and repatriation. Failing to provide adequate travel insurance can lead to a visa rejection.
This guide will walk you through the visa application process, including:
✅ Types of Norway visas and which one suits your travel purpose.
✅ Application procedures, necessary documents, and processing times.
✅ Visa fees and tracking methods after submission.
✅ Visa success and rejection rates to help you understand approval chances.
✅ Specific requirements for Indian nationals, one of the largest applicant groups.
By following this guide, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the Norway Schengen Visa process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for your upcoming trip to Norway.
Understanding Norway’s Schengen Visa Requirements
Norway, as a member of the Schengen Area, follows the common Schengen Visa policy. This means that travelers from non-Schengen countries must obtain a Schengen Visa to visit Norway for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The visa allows entry to Norway and other Schengen countries, provided that Norway is the main destination or the first point of entry.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa for Norway?
A Schengen Visa is required for nationals of countries that do not have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area. Some of the most common countries that require a visa to enter Norway include India, China, Russia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Egypt, the Philippines, and Turkey.
However, citizens of certain countries (such as the U.S., Canada, Australia, the UK, and Japan) can visit Norway visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If they intend to stay longer, they must apply for a residence permit or long-term visa.
Basic Requirements for a Norway Schengen Visa
When applying for a Schengen Visa to Norway, you must provide the following documents:
✅ Completed Norway Schengen Visa Application Form (available online).
✅ Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from the Schengen Area, and with at least two blank pages).
✅ Recent passport-size photographs meeting Schengen visa photo specifications.
✅ Proof of travel itinerary, including flight reservations.
✅ Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Norway.
✅ Travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000, valid throughout the Schengen Area.
✅ Proof of financial means, such as bank statements, salary slips, or a sponsorship letter.
✅ Employment or study verification, such as a work contract or university enrollment certificate.
Processing Time and Validity
- The standard processing time for a Norway Schengen Visa is 15 calendar days, but it can take up to 45 days during peak seasons or if additional documents are required.
- The visa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- A Schengen Visa cannot be extended except under exceptional circumstances (e.g., force majeure or humanitarian reasons).
To maximize the chances of visa approval, applicants should submit complete documentation, demonstrate strong financial stability, and ensure they meet all travel insurance requirements. Proper preparation reduces the risk of delays or rejection and ensures a smooth visa application process.
Types of Norway Visas
Norway offers various types of visas depending on the purpose and duration of stay. Travelers can apply for a short-term Schengen Visa (Type C) for stays up to 90 days or a long-term National Visa (Type D) for extended stays related to work, study, or family reunification. Below is a comprehensive overview of the different Norway visa types available for applicants.
1. Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)
A Norway Schengen Visa (Type C) is intended for non-Schengen nationals visiting Norway for a short stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa also allows travel to other Schengen countries, provided Norway is the primary destination.
Common types of Norway Schengen Visas include:
- Tourist Visa – For travelers visiting Norway for leisure, sightseeing, or vacations.
- Business Visa – For business travelers attending meetings, conferences, or trade fairs.
- Family or Friends Visit Visa – For individuals visiting relatives or friends residing in Norway.
- Medical Treatment Visa – For those seeking medical treatment in Norwegian hospitals or clinics.
- Cultural, Sports, or Scientific Events Visa – For participants attending international cultural, scientific, or sports events.
- Airport Transit Visa (Type A) – Required for travelers transiting through Norwegian airports en route to a non-Schengen country.
The Norway Schengen Visa (Type C) is available as:
✅ Single-entry visa – Allows one entry into Norway/Schengen Zone.
✅ Double-entry visa – Permits two entries within the visa validity period.
✅ Multiple-entry visa – Allows multiple entries during its validity, ideal for frequent travelers.
2. Long-Stay National Visa (Type D) for Norway
For stays exceeding 90 days, applicants must apply for a Norway National Visa (Type D). This visa is often linked to a residence permit, which must be obtained after arrival. Below are the most common long-term visa categories:
✅ Work Visa – For skilled professionals with a job contract from a Norwegian employer.
✅ Study Visa – For international students enrolling in Norwegian universities or educational programs.
✅ Family Reunification Visa – For those joining family members who are legal residents in Norway.
✅ Entrepreneur and Investor Visa – For individuals starting a business or investing in Norway.
Unlike the Schengen Visa, a National Visa (Type D) is granted for long-term purposes and requires applicants to apply for a residence permit through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) after arriving in Norway.
3. Norway Work Visa
Non-EU nationals planning to work in Norway must obtain a Norwegian Work Visa, which requires:
- A valid job offer from a Norwegian employer.
- Employer sponsorship and approval from Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).
- Compliance with Norwegian work permit regulations.
Types of Norway Work Visas include:
- Skilled Worker Visa – For professionals with qualifications in engineering, healthcare, IT, or other high-demand sectors.
- Seasonal Work Visa – For temporary employment in agriculture, fishing, tourism, or hospitality.
- Job Seeker Visa – For recent graduates from Norwegian universities looking for employment.
- Self-Employment Visa – For entrepreneurs planning to start a business in Norway.
Work visas usually require a residence permit, which must be applied for before arriving in Norway.
4. Norway Student Visa
International students planning to study in Norway for more than 90 days must apply for a Student Visa (Type D). This visa allows students to:
- Enroll in full-time studies at an accredited Norwegian institution.
- Work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) under specific conditions.
- Apply for a post-study work visa upon graduation.
Required documents include:
✅ A university admission letter from a Norwegian institution.
✅ Proof of financial support covering tuition and living expenses.
✅ Valid health insurance for the duration of stay.
Upon arrival, students must register with the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) to obtain a residence permit.
5. Family Reunification Visa
This visa allows non-EU nationals to join family members residing in Norway. Eligible applicants include:
- Spouses or registered partners of Norwegian residents.
- Minor children of residence permit holders.
- Dependent parents of legal Norwegian residents.
Applicants must provide:
✅ Proof of family relationship (marriage or birth certificate).
✅ Financial evidence showing that the sponsor can support the applicant.
✅ Adequate housing arrangements in Norway.
6. Norway Business and Startup Visa
Entrepreneurs and investors planning to start a business in Norway can apply for a Startup Visa or Investor Visa. This visa is ideal for:
- Foreign investors launching a Norwegian company.
- Innovative startup founders with scalable business ideas.
Applicants must:
✅ Submit a business plan outlining their venture.
✅ Demonstrate sufficient investment capital.
✅ Partner with a Norwegian business incubator or innovation hub.
7. Norway Digital Nomad Visa (Planned for 2025)
Norway is in the process of introducing a Digital Nomad Visa, which will allow remote workers to live in Norway while working for a company based outside the country. This visa is expected to have:
✅ Minimum income requirements.
✅ Health insurance requirements.
✅ A limit on the duration of stay.
For now, digital nomads can apply for a Self-Employment Visa or use the Schengen Visa for short-term stays.
Norway offers various visa options depending on the purpose and duration of stay. A Schengen Visa (Type C) is ideal for short-term travel, while a National Visa (Type D) is required for long-term stays related to work, study, or family reunification.
Understanding the right visa category will help applicants choose the correct application path and avoid unnecessary delays or rejections. Proper preparation and knowledge of the requirements for Norway visas can significantly increase the chances of approval.
Norway Visa Application
Applying for a Norway Schengen Visa involves a series of well-defined steps to ensure a successful application. Below is a comprehensive guide to assist you through the process:
- Determine the Appropriate Visa Type
Identify the purpose of your visit to Norway, as this will dictate the type of visa you need. Common categories include:
- Tourism: For leisure and sightseeing.
- Business: For attending meetings, conferences, or other work-related events.
- Family or Friend Visit: For visiting relatives or friends residing in Norway.
- Cultural or Sports Events: For participating in cultural, sports, or religious events.
Each category may have specific requirements, so it’s crucial to select the correct visa type.
- Gather Necessary Documentation
Prepare the following standard documents required for the visa application:
- Visa Application Form: Complete the form online through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) Application Portal.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen area, issued within the last ten years, and containing at least two blank pages.
- Photograph: One recent passport-sized color photo adhering to Schengen visa photo specifications.
- Travel Itinerary: Proof of round-trip flight reservations or travel plans.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Norway.
- Travel Medical Insurance: Coverage of at least €30,000, valid throughout the Schengen area for the entire duration of your stay.
- Proof of Financial Means: Recent bank statements, salary slips, or a sponsorship letter demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your expenses during the stay.
- Employment or Study Verification: A letter from your employer or educational institution confirming your status.
Additional documents may be required based on your specific situation and the purpose of your visit.
- Schedule an Appointment
After gathering all necessary documents, schedule an appointment to submit your application. This is typically done through a Visa Application Center (VAC), such as VFS Global, which handles applications on behalf of Norwegian embassies and consulates. You can find the nearest application center and book an appointment via the VFS Global website.
- Attend the Appointment
On the day of your appointment:
- Submission: Submit your completed application form along with all supporting documents.
- Biometric Data: Provide fingerprints and a photograph.
- Fees: Pay the visa application fee and any applicable service fees.
Ensure that all documents are organized and complete to avoid delays.
- Await Processing
The standard processing time for a Norway Schengen Visa is up to 15 calendar days from the date the embassy or consulate receives your application. In some cases, processing may take up to 45 days, especially during peak travel seasons or if additional documentation is required.
- Track Your Application
You can monitor the status of your application through the VFS Global tracking system. You will need the reference number provided during your application submission and your last name to access the information.
- Receive Your Visa
Once your application is processed, you will be notified to collect your passport with the visa affixed. Alternatively, if you opted for courier service, your passport will be mailed to you.
Additional Tips:
- Apply Early: You can submit your application up to six months before your planned travel date. Applying early is advisable, especially during busy periods.
udi.no - Avoid Confirming Travel Plans Prematurely: It’s recommended not to make non-refundable travel bookings until your visa is approved.
- Ensure Document Accuracy: Double-check all information and documents for accuracy and completeness to prevent processing delays or potential rejection.
By meticulously following these steps and providing thorough documentation, you can enhance the likelihood of a successful Norway Schengen Visa application, paving the way for a memorable visit to Norway and the broader Schengen area.
Norway Visa Price and Additional Norway Visa Fees
Applying for a Norway Schengen Visa involves several fees, including the standard visa application fee and potential additional charges. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Standard Visa Application Fees
- Adults and Children Over 12 Years Old: €90
- Children Between 6 and 12 Years Old: €45
- Children Under 6 Years Old: No fee
These fees apply to both single and multiple-entry visas.
- Service Fees
When submitting your application through external service providers like VFS Global, additional service fees are applicable:
- VFS Service Fee: €26 (approximately $28.50)
- Courier Service for Resubmission: €18.20 (approximately $19.91)
The VFS service fee is mandatory and must be paid online during the appointment booking process. Payments for additional services are collected at the visa application center.
- Exemptions and Reductions
Certain applicants may be exempt from the visa fee or eligible for a reduced fee:
- Exemptions:
- Citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA closely related to an EU/EEA national
- Children under 6 years old
- Reductions:
- Children aged 6 to 12 years pay a reduced fee of €45
Applicants exempt from the visa fee will have the fee refunded if paid during the online application process.
- Payment Methods
Fees are typically paid online during the application registration in the portal. For services at VFS Global centers, payments can be made via credit/debit card. Personal checks or cash are generally not accepted.
- Refund Policy
Visa application fees are non-refundable, regardless of the application’s outcome. However, if you are exempt from the fee and have paid it during the online application, it will be refunded.
- Additional Considerations
- Service Provider Fees: If you apply through an external service provider like VFS Global, be prepared for additional service fees on top of the standard visa fee.
- Fee Changes: Visa fees are subject to change. Always verify the current fees before applying.
Understanding these fees and planning accordingly can help ensure a smooth application process for your Norway Schengen Visa.
Norway Visa Tracking
After submitting your Norway visa application, it’s natural to want to monitor its progress. The method for tracking your application depends on where and how you submitted it. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:
- Applications Submitted via VFS Global:
If you applied through a VFS Global Visa Application Centre, you can track your application online:
- Visit the VFS Global Tracking Page: Navigate to the VFS Global application tracking portal.
- Enter Required Details: Input the Application Reference Number found on the invoice or receipt provided during your application submission, along with your date of birth.
- Submit Information: Click ‘Submit’ to view your application’s current status.
This service is available for applicants from various countries, including India.
- Applications Submitted via the UDI Application Portal:
If you applied directly through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) Application Portal, you can check your application’s status as follows:
- Log into Your UDI Account: Access the UDI Application Portal using your credentials.
- Navigate to ‘My Applications’: Here, you’ll find a list of your submitted applications.
- Select Your Application: Click on the relevant application to view its current status and any updates.
This method provides real-time updates directly from UDI.
- Applications Submitted via Other Channels:
If you applied through other channels or are unable to access the online tracking systems, you can:
- Contact the Relevant Embassy or Consulate: Reach out to the Norwegian embassy or consulate where you submitted your application. They can provide status updates and additional information.
Important Considerations:
- Processing Times: The standard processing time for a Norway visa is up to 15 calendar days, but it can extend to 45 days in certain circumstances. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
- Information Accuracy: Ensure that the details you enter for tracking (such as reference number and personal information) are accurate to avoid discrepancies.
- Data Privacy: Use only official websites and portals for tracking to ensure the security of your personal information.
By utilizing the appropriate tracking method based on your application submission point, you can stay informed about your visa application’s progress and plan accordingly.
Norway Visa Success Rate and Rejection Rate
Applying for a Norway Schengen Visa requires careful attention to detail, as the country maintains a notable rejection rate. In 2023, Norway had a rejection rate of 16.08%, with 108,536 applications received.
This rejection rate places Norway among the Schengen countries with higher denial percentages. For context, countries like Malta and Estonia had rejection rates of 37.6% and 33.1%, respectively, while Iceland had the lowest at 2.2%.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection:
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing or improperly filled documents are a primary reason for visa denials.
- Lack of Sufficient Funds: Failing to prove you have enough funds to support your stay in the Schengen Area.
- Unclear Purpose of Visit: Not clearly defining the intention of your travel can lead to skepticism from visa officers.
- Doubts about Return: If the consulate suspects you might not return to your home country, your visa could be denied.
To enhance the likelihood of a successful application, ensure that all required documents are complete and accurate. Clearly articulate the purpose of your visit, provide evidence of sufficient financial means, and demonstrate strong ties to your home country to assure authorities of your intent to return after your trip.
By meticulously preparing your application and addressing these common pitfalls, you can improve your chances of obtaining a Norway Schengen Visa.
Norway Visa for Indians
Indian citizens planning to visit Norway for short-term stays, such as tourism, business, or family visits, are required to obtain a Schengen Visitor Visa. This visa permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period and allows travel within the entire Schengen Area.
Application Process:
- Determine the Visa Type: Identify the purpose of your visit—tourism, business, or visiting family/friends—to select the appropriate visa category.
- Gather Necessary Documents: Prepare the following documents:
- Visa Application Form: Complete and sign the form available on the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website.
- Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen Area, issued within the last ten years, and containing at least two blank pages.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized color photos adhering to Schengen visa photo specifications.
- Travel Itinerary: Proof of round-trip flight reservations or travel plans.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Norway.
- Travel Medical Insurance: Coverage of at least €30,000, valid throughout the Schengen Area for the entire duration of your stay.
- Proof of Financial Means: Recent bank statements, salary slips, or a sponsorship letter demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your expenses during the stay.
- Employment Proof: A letter from your employer stating your position, salary, and approval of leave.
- Cover Letter: A personal letter detailing the purpose of your visit, itinerary, and duration of stay.
- Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment with VFS Global, the authorized visa application center for Norway in India, through their online portal.
- Attend the Appointment: Submit your application and biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) in person at the designated VFS Global center.
- Pay Visa Fees: The standard visa fee is €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6 to 12. Additional service fees may apply when applying through VFS Global.
- Await Processing: Processing times can vary, but applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel dates.
Important Considerations:
- Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their stay, typically around NOK 500 (approximately INR 3,700) per day.
udi.no - Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance meets Schengen requirements, covering medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Previous Travel History: A positive travel history, especially to Schengen countries, can enhance the chances of visa approval.
For detailed information and updates, refer to the Norwegian Embassy in India’s official website.
By meticulously preparing your application and ensuring all requirements are met, Indian travelers can look forward to experiencing the natural beauty and cultural richness of Norway.
Norway VFS Mumbai
For residents of Mumbai and surrounding regions seeking a Norway Schengen Visa, the application process is facilitated through VFS Global, the authorized visa service provider for Norway in India.
VFS Global Mumbai Center Details:
- Address: Trade Centre, First Floor, ‘G’ Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai – 400 051.
visa.vfsglobal.com - VFS Service Charges: INR 740, payable via cash or card at the center.
visa.vfsglobal.com
Application Process:
- Online Application: Begin by completing the visa application form on the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) Application Portal.
- Appointment Scheduling: After submitting the online application, schedule an appointment with VFS Global Mumbai through their official website.
- Document Submission: On the appointment day, visit the VFS Global Mumbai center to submit your application documents and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).
Additional Information:
- Consulate General of Norway in Mumbai: While the Consulate General in Mumbai focuses on strengthening Indo-Norwegian cooperation, it does not handle visa applications. All visa-related queries and submissions should be directed to VFS Global.
- Contact Details: For assistance, you can reach out to VFS Global via email at info.norwayin@vfshelpline.com or call +91 22 67866021 between 09:00 to 17:00.
By following these steps and utilizing the services provided by VFS Global in Mumbai, applicants can efficiently navigate the Norway visa application process.
Norway Visa Frequently Asked Questions
Applying for a visa to Norway involves several steps and considerations. Below are some frequently asked questions to assist applicants in understanding the process:
- Do I Need a Visa to Visit Norway?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Citizens of countries within the Schengen Area do not require a visa for short stays. However, nationals from many non-Schengen countries must obtain a Schengen Visa to enter Norway. It’s essential to check the specific requirements based on your citizenship.
- What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen Visa allows travelers to visit any of the 27 Schengen countries, including Norway, for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is suitable for tourism, business, or family visits.
- How Do I Apply for a Norway Schengen Visa?
The application process involves:
- Online Registration: Complete the electronic application form on the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website.
- Fee Payment: Pay the visa application fee online during the registration process.
- Appointment Booking: Schedule an appointment with the nearest VFS Global application center to submit your documents and provide biometric data.
- Document Submission: Attend the appointment with all required documents, including a valid passport, photographs, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and evidence of financial means.
- What is the Processing Time for a Norway Visa?
The standard processing time is up to 15 calendar days from the date the application is received by the embassy or consulate. In some cases, processing may take up to 45 days, especially if additional documentation or scrutiny is required. Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel dates.
- Can I Track My Visa Application Status?
Yes, if you applied through VFS Global, you can track your application status on their tracking portal using your application reference number and date of birth. For applications submitted directly to a Norwegian embassy or consulate, you may contact them directly for status updates.
- What Should I Do If My Visa Application is Denied?
If your application is denied, you will receive a letter stating the reasons for the refusal. You have the right to appeal the decision within three weeks from the date you receive the refusal letter. The appeal process and requirements will be outlined in the refusal letter.
- I Extend My Schengen Visa While in Norway?
Extensions are granted only in exceptional circumstances, such as force majeure or humanitarian reasons. It’s generally expected that travelers depart before their visa expires and apply for a new visa if they wish to return.
- Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for a Norway Visa?
Yes, applicants must provide proof of travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000. The insurance must be valid throughout the Schengen Area and cover the entire duration of your stay.
- Can I Work in Norway with a Schengen Visa?
No, a Schengen Visa does not permit employment. If you intend to work in Norway, you must apply for a relevant residence permit or work visa.
- Who Can I Contact for More Information?
For general inquiries, you can contact VFS Global, the authorized visa application center. For specific questions, especially regarding residence permits or complex cases, you may reach out to the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).
By thoroughly understanding the visa application process and requirements, applicants can enhance their chances of a successful application and enjoy their visit to Norway.