Do I need a visa to visit Norway?

If you're from a country with visa-free access to Norway, you can visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without applying for a Norway tourist visa. Citizens of the following countries are eligible for visa-free travel to Norway:

• EU/EEA countries and Switzerland
• United States
• Canada
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Japan
• South Korea
• Mexico

For these travelers, only a valid passport is required. Note that your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Norway.

Starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries (such as the U.S. and Canada) will also need to apply for an ETIAS authorization (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering the Schengen Area, including Norway.

Do you need a Schengen visa to visit Norway?

If you're not from a visa-exempt country, you'll need to apply for a Schengen visa to visit Norway. This visa allows you to travel within all 27 Schengen countries, including Norway, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Common nationalities requiring a Norway tourist visa include citizens of:

• India
• China
• South Africa
• Philippines
• Pakistan

How to apply for a Schengen visa for Norway

The process for obtaining a Norway Schengen visa is straightforward but requires preparation. Here's what you need to do:

Complete the online application: Start by registering your application on the official Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website or at your local Norwegian embassy/consulate.

Prepare your documents: Gather all required documents, including:

• A valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least three months after departure from Norway).
• Two recent passport-sized photos meeting Schengen photo requirements.
• Proof of accommodation in Norway (hotel bookings or an invitation letter).
• Travel insurance with coverage of at least €30,000 that includes medical emergencies and repatriation.
• Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements showing NOK 500 per day of stay).
• Round-trip flight reservations or travel itinerary.

Submit your application in person: Visit your nearest Norwegian embassy, consulate, or Visa Application Center (VAC) to submit your documents and biometric data (fingerprints and photo).

Pay the Visa Fee: The standard fee is €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6–12. Children under 6 are exempt from fees.

Visa processing time

Applications are typically processed within 15 calendar days but may take longer during peak travel seasons or if additional documentation is required. It’s recommended that you apply at least four weeks before your planned trip but no earlier than six months in advance.

Special considerations: Transit visas and long stays

If you're transiting through a Norwegian airport on your way to another destination, check whether you need an airport transit visa. Most travelers don’t require one if they remain in the international transit area of Oslo Airport during operating hours (6 am–11 pm). However, citizens of certain countries may need one—check with UDI before traveling.

Extending your stay

A Schengen visa cannot be extended beyond 90 days. If you wish to stay longer in Norway, you must apply for a residence permit before your current visa expires.

Tips for Hassle-Free Travel

To ensure your trip goes smoothly, follow these tips:

1. Double-check the specific requirements for your nationality on the official UDI website.

2. Ensure all supporting documents are translated into English or Norwegian by a certified translator if needed.

3. If visiting family or friends in Norway, ask them to submit a "Guarantee Form for Visit" stamped by Norwegian authorities as proof of sponsorship.

4. Purchase travel insurance that meets Schengen requirements well before applying for your visa.

By staying informed about Norway's entry requirements, you'll be ready to explore everything Norway wonderland has to offer—from its breathtaking landscapes and rich Viking history to its modern cities and warm hospitality.

For more details about visas and travel documents, visit UDI’s official website or consult with your local Norwegian embassy.