Residence permit renewal in Norway
How to renew a residence permit — how it works anywhere
Renewing a Norwegian residence permit typically involves applying online, submitting required documents, and potentially attending an appointment with the police or UDI. The process aims to ensure continued legal residency in Norway.
It is generally advisable to apply for renewal several months before the current residence permit expires. This allows sufficient time for processing the application, which can sometimes take several weeks or longer, and helps avoid gaps in legal residency.
Start 90 days ahead
UDI recommends applying no later than one month before your current permit expires, but generally advises applying earlier, around 3 months prior, to account for processing times and potential appointment availability at the police.
Most permit renewals ask you to prove you have health cover → SafetyWing
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The process
- 1Check the conditions for your specific permit type to ensure eligibility for renewal.
- 2Gather all necessary documents, including passport, previous residence permit, and documentation proving the basis for your permit (e.g., employment contract, study confirmation, family ties).
- 3Complete and submit the application form online through the UDI's application portal.
- 4Pay the application fee online (if applicable).
- 5Book an appointment with the police (politiet) for identification verification and submission of original documents, if required.
- 6Attend the appointment with all required original documents.
- 7Await the decision from UDI. If approved, you will be notified on how to receive your new residence card.
What to bring
- Valid passport
- Previous residence permit card (if applicable)
- Documentation proving the basis for your permit (e.g., employment contract, payslips, confirmation of studies, marriage certificate, birth certificates for family members)
- Documentation of sufficient funds (if applicable)
- Police certificate (for certain permit types, if required)
- Other documents as specified by UDI for your particular permit category
Who handles it
Utlendingsdirektoratet (UDI) (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration)
Application fees vary depending on the type of residence permit being renewed. The current fee for a specific permit type can be found on the UDI website during the application process.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure you meet the specific conditions for renewal for your permit type, as these can differ.
- Submit your application well in advance of the expiry date to avoid issues with legal residency.
- Be aware that processing times can vary significantly; check UDI's website for current estimates.
- Always bring original documents to your police appointment, not just copies.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Don't rely on remembering
Renewals here take about 90 days to start. Add this document and Duratum will tell you when that window opens.