The shortage of skillset in some industries in Norway means that Norwegian employers need to look abroad to secure the skillset needed. This, combined with our strong economy means that we are attracting more and more foreign employees to Norway and many of them come from countries outside of EU.

What is required for NON-EU nationals to be able to work legally in Norway? Initially, you will need a valid work offer from a Norwegian entity to link your work and residence permit to. Then there is several other variables to consider to make sure you are qualified to obtain a valid work and residence permit to Norway.

You can be hired directly in a Norwegian entity paid in NOK, or you can be seconded from a foreign company to a Norwegian client to work on an assignment in Norway. If you are a seconded hire, you are only allowed to obtain a continuous work and residence permit for up to 6 years. 

One of our core services is to assist foreign employees with applying for work and residence permits to Norway. With a power of attorney, ECOVIS are able to collect all necessary documents from employer and employee, submit applications to UDI for processing, follow up directly on each cases, book appointment for ID-check at police once permit is approved and make sure residence card and Norwegian ID-numbers are obtained.

In order to be able to successfully apply and obtain a work and residence permit, we have listed up the main requirements below:

• You need to have a valid work offer in Norway
• You need to either have a university degree, completed relevant vocational training programme or apply based on your experience
• Your salary level needs to comply with what is stated as minimum wage by UDI

A NON-EU national need to obtain a valid work and residence permit prior to starting his/her new job in Norway. Only in some cases will local police grant an employee the possibility to start working prior to the actual application being processed and finalized by UDI. If you as an employer or you as a standalone employee/consultant need any further advice and information on how ECOVIS can assist with the application process, feel free to connect with us here.