How to obtain Norwegian citizenship
Do you dream of full participation in life in Norway? Obtaining Norwegian citizenship opens the door to many rights and opportunities that are usually available only to native Norwegians. In this article, you will learn what steps you need to take to become a Norwegian citizen.
Benefits of Norwegian citizenship
Right to vote – the opportunity to take part in parliamentary elections.- Government support – assistance from the Norwegian government in any country.
- Free entry – the right to enter Norway in any situation (which was particularly useful in 2020).
- Full civil rights – access to all civil rights and privileges.
Who is this article for?
This article is aimed at Poles aged 18 to 67 who:
- Moved to Norway and registered as an EU resident staying in Norway (oppholdsrett som EU/EØS-borger), or
- Hold a residence permit (oppholdstillatelse), or
- Hold a permanent residence permit (permanent oppholdstillatelse).
If your situation is different, for example if your husband/wife is a Norwegian citizen or you moved to Norway before turning 18, please contact us: info@efirma.no. Together we will determine what steps need to be taken in your case.
Requirements for obtaining citizenship
To become a Norwegian citizen, you must meet several requirements:
- Permanent residence in Norway – you must live in Norway and plan your future in this country.
- Proof of identity – you must have a valid passport or other identity document (although it cannot be a Polish identity card).
- Period of residence – you must have lived in Norway for at least 8 years during the last 11 years. If your income exceeds 366 675 NOK per year (for 2024), 6 years during the last 10 years is enough.
- Knowledge of the Norwegian language – you must pass an accredited oral exam at a minimum B1 level.
- Civics exam – you must pass samfunnskapsprøven (civics exam) or statsborgerprøven (citizenship exam).
- Police certificate – you must obtain a certificate of good conduct that is no older than 3 months.
- Application fee – you must pay 6500 NOK for adults.
- Right of residence during the last 3 years – you must live in Norway with full right of residence, work, or be registered as a family member of a person with the right of residence. You also cannot stay outside Norway for longer than 2 months during the last 3 years.
- Additional requirements for holders of oppholdstillatelse – you must register as an EU resident or obtain a permanent residence permit (permanent oppholdstillatelse). This can be done at the same time as the citizenship application.
Note: While waiting for the decision, you cannot leave Norway for longer than 2 months in a year.
How long does the citizenship process take?
Once you meet all the requirements, you can submit an application for citizenship. The process includes:
- submitting the application,
- providing the necessary documents
- waiting for the official decision.
The waiting time can vary depending on your situation. Often, a decision may be made even 30 months after the application is submitted.
Summary
Obtaining Norwegian citizenship is a step that opens up many opportunities and rights for you. Remember that this process requires meeting specific requirements and patience. If you have any questions or need help with the application process, do not hesitate to contact us.
Together we can determine what steps need to be taken so that you can enjoy full civil rights in Norway!
Please contact us: +47 21 38 38 21.
We are available Mon-Fri from 9:00 – 21:00 and will be happy to help!