Immigration Law

Family Immigration to Norway

Key Takeaway

If you live in Norway with a valid residence permit (or are a Norwegian citizen), your close family members may be able to join you. The reference person must meet income requirements.

Who Can Apply

Spouse or Cohabiting Partner

  • Both must be over 18 years old (Immigration Act § 40)
  • The marriage must be legally valid and voluntary
  • Cohabiting partners must have lived together for at least 2 years (§ 41)
  • Income requirement: the reference person must earn at least NOK 328,862/year
  • The reference person must not have received social assistance in the last 12 months

Children

  • Children under 18 can apply for family immigration with parents in Norway (§ 42)
  • Must be unmarried and without their own children
  • Both parents must consent (or the applicant must have sole custody)
  • The support requirement applies unless the parent in Norway is a refugee

Parents

  • Parents of children with residence in Norway may apply in special cases (§ 46)
  • Generally limited to parents of children who are refugees or have humanitarian protection
  • Strict requirements – usually only granted in exceptional humanitarian circumstances

Important: Processing Times

Family immigration cases can take 6-12 months or longer to process. Apply as early as possible. You can track your application at udi.no. The family member must wait in their home country until the permit is granted.

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