Norway EU/EEA residence rules in 2026
EU/EEA nationals use Norway's free-movement rules, not the ordinary third-country skilled-worker residence-permit system. They can live, work and study in Norway when the relevant right-of-residence conditions are met.
An EU/EEA employee who will work and live in Norway for more than three months must register. Separate categories cover self-employed people, students, people with sufficient funds, posted workers and family members.
An EU/EEA citizen who comes to Norway specifically to look for work can generally stay for up to six months. The person must report to the police no later than three months after arrival. If they have not obtained work within six months, they normally must leave.
After five continuous years in Norway with a valid right of residence under the EU/EEA rules, an EU/EEA national can generally apply for permanent right of residence, which allows indefinite residence and work.
Non-EU/EEA family members can need a residence card. Do not confuse an EU/EEA residence card or permanent right of residence with Norway's national family-immigration permit or national permanent-residence permit.
Official guidance: UDI EU/EEA residence and UDI permanent right of residence.
Related: family immigration, permanent residence, Norway hub.
Official and supporting sources
- Official Norway source 1government · accessed 2026-09-20
- Official Norway source 2government · accessed 2026-09-20
- Official Norway source 3government · accessed 2026-09-20