How to Bring Your Spouse or Partner to Norway
Bringing your spouse or partner to Norway involves navigating a series of legal and administrative steps. Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or personal reasons, understanding the process is crucial to ensure a smooth transition. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to bring your spouse or partner to Norway.
1. Determine Eligibility
Before initiating the process, confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria:
- Married Couples : If you are legally married, your spouse can apply for a residence permit based on family reunification.
- Unmarried Partners : Cohabiting partners (common-law spouses) may also qualify if they can prove a stable and durable relationship.
- Same-Sex Partners : Norway recognizes same-sex marriages and registered partnerships, so these relationships are eligible for family reunification.
For unmarried couples, providing evidence of cohabitation (e.g., joint bank accounts, shared rental agreements, or affidavits from witnesses) is essential.
2. Ensure You Have Legal Residency in Norway
To sponsor your spouse or partner, you must already be legally residing in Norway. This could mean:
- Holding a valid residence permit as a worker, student, researcher, or EU/EEA citizen.
- Being a Norwegian citizen.
- Having refugee or subsidiary protection status.
If you are not yet legally resident in Norway, you’ll need to address this before proceeding.
3. Gather Required Documents
Both you and your spouse/partner will need to provide specific documents. These typically include:
For the Sponsor (You):
- Proof of legal residency in Norway (residence permit, visa, etc.).
- Proof of sufficient income to support your family (employment contract, salary slips, bank statements).
- Proof of adequate housing (rental agreement or property ownership documents).
For the Applicant (Your Spouse/Partner):
- A valid passport.
- Birth certificate (translated into Norwegian or English if necessary).
- Marriage certificate (or proof of a durable relationship for unmarried partners).
- Medical certificate proving good health (issued by an approved doctor in their home country).
- Criminal record check from their country of origin.
Note: All foreign documents must be legalized or apostilled and translated into Norwegian or English by a certified translator.
4. Apply for Family Reunification
The application process depends on whether your spouse/partner is an EU/EEA citizen or a non-EU national .
For EU/EEA Citizens
- EU citizens do not require a visa to enter Norway but must register with the local tax office (Skatteetaten) within three months of arrival.
- Provide proof of your relationship and sufficient resources to support yourselves.
For Non-EU Nationals
Non-EU nationals must follow these steps:
- Apply for a Residence Permit : Submit the application at the Norwegian embassy or consulate in their home country.
- Include all required documents mentioned above.
- Pay the applicable fee (approximately €300–€500).
- Wait for Approval : Processing times vary but typically take 2–6 months.
- Travel to Norway : Once the permit is granted, your spouse/partner can travel to Norway.
- Register with the Tax Office (Skatteetaten) : Within eight days of arrival, visit Skatteetaten to register and obtain a D-number or personal number.
5. Attend the Medical Examination
Upon arrival in Norway, non-EU nationals may need to undergo a medical examination to confirm they meet health requirements. The immigration authorities will provide details about scheduling this appointment.
6. Obtain a Residence Permit
After registering with Skatteetaten, your spouse/partner will receive a provisional residence permit. This allows them to stay in Norway while their application is finalized. Once approved, they will be issued a definitive residence card, valid for one to three years and renewable.
7. Additional Considerations
Language Requirements
Some municipalities require basic knowledge of the Norwegian language for long-term residency. Check with your local municipality for specific rules.
Integration Program
Non-EU nationals aged 18–55 must complete an integration program , which includes free Norwegian language classes and social studies courses. Completion is mandatory for obtaining permanent residency.
Work Authorization
Once your spouse/partner has a residence permit, they are generally allowed to work in Norway without additional permits.
8. Costs Involved
There are several fees associated with bringing your spouse or partner to Norway:
- Residence permit application fee: Approximately €300–€500.
- Translation and legalization costs: Vary depending on the country and service provider.
- Travel expenses: Flights and other relocation costs.
9. Tips for a Smooth Process
- Start early: The entire process can take several months, so plan ahead.
- Double-check document requirements: Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay applications.
- Consult the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI): For non-EU nationals, the UDI website provides detailed guidance.
- Seek professional assistance: If the process seems overwhelming, consider hiring an immigration lawyer or consultant.
10. Resources
Here are some helpful resources for further information:
- Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) : https://www.udi.no
- Tax Administration (Skatteetaten) : https://www.skatteetaten.no
- Local Municipality Websites : Search for your municipality’s site for registration details.
