Planning a trip to Norway? This guide shows you where to find official information about who can travel visa-free, how to apply for a Schengen visa, if needed, and which documents you'll need for a smooth journey.
Many travellers can visit Norway without a visa. However, if you're from outside the EU/EEA, you may need to apply for a visitor's visa.
If you're from a country with visa-free access to the Schengen Area, you can travel to Norway for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without applying for a visa.
This includes citizens of all EU/EEA countries, as well as nationals from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong, as well as several Latin American countries, including Mexico, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia.
For the full list of visa-exempt countries, see UDI's official list.
Please note that there are additional rules you must follow. See UDI's website for a full list of requirements for visa-free travellers.
New entry rules apply from 12 October, 2025
Two new European border control systems will be launched in 2025 and 2026, respectively, which affect most non-EU citizens travelling to Norway for short stays: the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
Starting from 12 October, 2025, all travellers from countries outside the EU/EEA who visit Norway or the Schengen area for a short stay (up to 90 days) will be registered in the new European Entry/Exit System (EES).
The system will record your facial image, fingerprints, and information about your passport, as well as the time and place of your entry and exit.
See politiet.no for more information.
Who needs a Schengen visa to visit Norway?
If you're not from a visa-exempt country, you must apply for a Schengen short-stay visa before traveling to Norway. This visa allows travel to all 27 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Go to UDI's visa checker to see if you need a visa.
How to apply for a Schengen visa for Norway
Start your application through the official UDI visa portal, or contact your local Norwegian embassy or consulate.
Required documents (according to UDI's checklist):
- Valid passport
- Two passport photos
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel insurance
- Proof of funds
- Round-trip flight booking
- Invitation letter + guarantee form (if visiting family/friends)
To ensure your trip goes smoothly, follow these tips:
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Check specific visa rules for your nationality on the UDI website.
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Translate documents into English or Norwegian, if necessary.
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Buy travel insurance that meets Schengen requirements before applying.
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Apply early to avoid delays – embassies may be backlogged during peak travel seasons.
For the most up-to-date and accurate information, always consult the UDI website or contact your nearest Norwegian embassy or consulate.
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