Immigration Law

Asylum & Protection in Norway

Key Takeaway

Norway grants protection to people who face persecution in their home country. The asylum process is handled by the police, UDI, and the reception system. You have the right to free legal assistance during the process.

The Asylum Process

1

Register with the police

You must register your asylum claim with the police or at the National Arrivals Centre (Ankomstsenter) in Råde. The police will take your fingerprints and photograph.

2

Stay at a reception centre

You will be offered a place at a reception centre (asylmottak) while your application is processed. Basic needs (housing, food, health) are covered.

3

Interview with UDI

UDI will conduct an asylum interview where you explain why you need protection. You have the right to an interpreter and a lawyer.

4

Decision

UDI makes a decision. You may receive refugee status (§ 28), subsidiary protection, or a rejection. Processing time varies from weeks to months.

5

Appeal if rejected

If rejected, you can appeal to UNE (Immigration Appeals Board) within 3 weeks. You have the right to free legal aid for the appeal.

Your Rights as an Asylum Seeker

  • Right to an interpreter during interviews and meetings
  • Right to free legal aid – especially for appeals (Immigration Act § 92)
  • Access to healthcare, including emergency care and necessary treatment
  • Children have the right to attend school
  • You may apply for a temporary work permit while waiting (§ 94)
  • You cannot be sent back to a country where you face danger (non-refoulement principle)

Dublin Regulation

If you have already applied for asylum or been registered in another EU/EEA country, Norway may transfer your case under the Dublin Regulation. Check if this applies to you. You can appeal a Dublin transfer decision.

Free Legal Help

  • NOAS (Norwegian Organisation for Asylum Seekers) – noas.no
  • Juss-Buss – free legal advice for students in Oslo
  • Jusshjelpa – free legal aid in Tromsø
  • Your assigned lawyer from UDI (for negative decisions)

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⚠️ This is general information based on Norwegian law – not legal advice. Contact NOAS, a lawyer, or UDI for your specific case.