How Long Does It Take to Get Norwegian Citizenship?

12 February، 2025

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Obtaining Norwegian citizenship is a significant milestone for many expats, offering access to the benefits of being part of one of the world’s most prosperous and egalitarian societies. However, the process of becoming a Norwegian citizen can be lengthy and involves several steps, including residency requirements, language proficiency, and integration into Norwegian society. In this article, we’ll break down the timeline and key factors involved in acquiring Norwegian citizenship.

1. General Overview of the Norwegian Citizenship Process

Norwegian citizenship can be obtained through several pathways, including:

Naturalization : For non-EU/EEA citizens who have legally resided in Norway for a specified period.
Declaration : For individuals born in Norway or with Norwegian parents.
Dual Citizenship : Norway allows dual citizenship, so you don’t have to renounce your original nationality.

The most common route for expats is naturalization , which requires meeting specific residency, integration, and language requirements.

2. Residency Requirement

The first and most critical step in obtaining Norwegian citizenship is fulfilling the residency requirement . The length of time you must live in Norway depends on your circumstances:

a. Non-EU/EEA Citizens

Standard Residency Period : 7 years of continuous legal residence in Norway.
Exception : If you are married to or in a registered partnership with a Norwegian citizen, the residency requirement is reduced to 3 years (with at least 1 year spent living together in Norway).

b. EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

EU/EEA citizens benefit from slightly more lenient rules due to freedom of movement within the EEA. However, they still need to meet the same 7-year residency requirement for naturalization.

c. Stateless Persons or Refugees

Individuals recognized as stateless or refugees may apply for citizenship after 5 years of legal residence.

3. Integration and Language Proficiency

In addition to residency, applicants must demonstrate their integration into Norwegian society. This includes passing a language test and proving proficiency in Norwegian culture and society.

a. Norwegian Language Test

Applicants must pass a Norwegian language test at level A2–B1 (depending on the situation). This can be achieved by completing approved language courses or passing an official exam.

b. Social Studies Test

Applicants must also pass a test on Norwegian society, history, and civic rights. This is often referred to as the “Introduction Program” (Introduksjonsprogrammet ), which is mandatory for new immigrants.

c. Documentation

You must provide proof of your language skills and completion of the social studies course. Certificates from recognized institutions or completion of integration programs serve as proof.

4. Application Process

Once you’ve met the residency and integration requirements, you can submit your application for Norwegian citizenship. Here’s an overview of the process:

a. Submitting the Application

Applications are submitted to the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) .
Required documents typically include:
- Proof of identity (passport or ID card).
- Proof of legal residence (e.g., residence permit).
- Language proficiency certificate.
- Results of the social studies test.
- Criminal record check (from both Norway and your home country).

b. Processing Time

The processing time for citizenship applications varies depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of UDI. On average, it takes 10–14 months for the application to be reviewed and approved. However, delays can occur if additional documentation or clarification is required.

5. Oath of Allegiance

Once your application is approved, you’ll be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony where you take the oath of allegiance to Norway. This formalizes your status as a Norwegian citizen. Afterward, you’ll receive your Norwegian passport and national ID.

6. Total Timeline

Here’s a summary of the total time it typically takes to obtain Norwegian citizenship:

Step	Timeframe
Legal Residency Requirement	3–7 years (depending on circumstances)
Norwegian Language Course/Exam	6–12 months
Social Studies Course/Exam	6–12 months
Citizenship Application Processing	10–14 months
Total Estimated Time	5–9 years

7. Factors That Can Accelerate or Delay the Process

Several factors can influence how quickly you obtain Norwegian citizenship:

a. Accelerating Factors

Marrying a Norwegian citizen (reduces residency requirement to 3 years).
Being stateless or a recognized refugee (5-year residency requirement).
Completing integration courses and exams promptly.

b. Delaying Factors

Gaps in legal residency (even short absences from Norway can reset the clock).
Missing or incomplete documentation.
Delays in scheduling the language or social studies exam.
Backlogs at UDI or other administrative bodies.

8. Dual Citizenship

One advantage of Norwegian citizenship is that Norway allows dual or multiple citizenships . This means you can retain your original nationality while becoming a Norwegian citizen, provided your home country also permits dual citizenship.

9. Common Challenges

While the process is straightforward for many, some challenges may arise:

Language Requirements : Passing the Norwegian language test and social studies exam can be difficult for some applicants.
Residency Tracking : Maintaining continuous legal residence without interruptions is crucial.
Bureaucratic Delays : Administrative processes in Norway can sometimes be slow, especially at the municipal or national level.