The Ultimate Guide to the Norway Digital Nomad Visa: Requirements and Application Process

Thinking about working remotely from a scenic destination like Norway? The Norway Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the Independent Contractor Visa, offers self-employed professionals and remote workers the opportunity to live in Norway for up to two years while continuing to work for companies or clients outside the country. This unique visa is ideal for freelancers or independent contractors who want to enjoy Norway’s natural beauty, modern infrastructure, and high quality of life without needing a local job offer.

To qualify, applicants must meet several key criteria: a minimum annual income of €35,719, proof of accommodation, a valid passport, and documentation proving self-employment or a contract with at least one Norwegian client. Once all required documents are collected and translated, the application process is relatively straightforward, involving submission through a local police station in Norway or a Norwegian embassy abroad. The processing time typically ranges from 2 to 4 months, with an application fee of around €600.

The Norway Digital Nomad Visa (Independent Contractor Visa) allows self-employed remote workers to live in Norway for up to two years while working for non-Norwegian clients. To qualify, you need an annual income of at least €35,719, a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and a contract with a Norwegian client paying standard rates. Applicants must also provide health insurance and operate a business outside Norway. The application process takes 2–4 months and costs around €600. This visa offers a legal way to enjoy Norway’s high quality of life while working remotely.

Norway’s digital nomad visa is a fantastic opportunity for self-employed individuals to live and work in one of the world’s most picturesque countries. The primary purpose of this visa is to allow mobile individuals to work remotely while enjoying all that Norway has to offer, from its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural landscapes.

Unlike traditional work visas, the digital nomad visa allows individuals to work remotely for companies based outside Norway. This flexibility is a significant advantage, as you can continue working for your current employer or clients without the need to secure a local job. The visa is designed for remote freelance projects rather than local employment, making it an ideal choice for those who want to experience life in Norway while working remotely without committing to a Norwegian employer. Additionally, many countries are now offering digital nomad visas to attract non-EU remote workers, including options like the Norway independent contractor visa.

The Norway digital nomad visa can be granted for up to two years, giving you ample time to establish a well-balanced work-life routine in Norway. This extended duration means you can fully immerse yourself in the Norwegian lifestyle, from exploring its majestic fjords to savoring its vibrant cultural festivals, all while holding a permanent residency and a lifetime visa. One of the unique features that makes Norway an attractive destination for digital nomads is the midnight sun, which provides extended daylight during summer months.

Whether you’re a seasoned digital nomad or new to the remote work lifestyle, mainland Norway, a beautiful country, offers an unparalleled backdrop for your professional growth and the chance to witness the northern lights for personal growth.

To qualify for the Norway digital nomad visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. Firstly, you need to demonstrate a minimum annual income of €35,719, which must meet or exceed the stipulated minimum wage rates. Must be 18+ with no criminal record. Additionally, being a skilled worker with vocational training or equivalent qualifications can strengthen your application. This ensures that you can support yourself financially while living in Norway. Additionally, you must provide proof of a stable income through bank statements that illustrate your financial viability. Proof of accommodation in Norway, such as a rental agreement or hotel booking, is also required to confirm that you have a place to stay during your time in the country.

Other essential requirements include a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, proof of self-employment must operate as a sole proprietorship or business outside Norway, not a subsidiary or limited company or employment with a non-Norwegian company, and having at least one contract with a Norwegian client, paying a standard skilled worker wage (~189 NOK/hr, approximately €40/hr). These criteria help demonstrate your ability to sustain yourself financially and professionally while living in Norway.

There’s a separate Svalbard digital nomad visa with slightly different rules.

The visa can be renewed up to a total of 4 years (two 2‑year terms), and possibly extended to 6 years before a 2‑year break is needed

When applying for the Norway digital nomad visa, you’ll need to gather several important documents. These include:

• A valid passport that won’t expire within the next two years

• Proof of a minimum annual income of €35,719 through bank statements

• Proof of accommodation in Norway

• Norwegian client documentation, if applicable

• Copies of all used pages in the passport

All original documents must be original and submitted in either English or Norwegian.

Having all your documents in order ensures a smooth application process. This includes providing proof of self-employment must operate as a sole proprietorship or business outside Norway, not a subsidiary or limited company or employment with a non-Norwegian company, and having at least one contract with a Norwegian client, paying a standard skilled worker wage (~189 NOK/hr, approximately €40/hr) and any other additional documents that may be required based on your specific situation, including business established abroad proof and accommodation proof. It is also important to include a comprehensive work history to support your application.

Document Translation and Authentication

Document translation and authentication are critical steps in the application process. All documents must be translated into Norwegian or English to ensure that they are properly understood by the authorities. This step verifies the accuracy and legitimacy of your documents.

Authentication of translated documents is equally important. This verification process ensures the accuracy of the translations, helping to prevent potential issues during the application review. Correctly translated and authenticated documents help avoid unnecessary delays and complications.

UDI Checklist Completion

The UDI checklist ensures that all necessary documents are ready for submission. This checklist must be printed and signed as confirmation that you have gathered all required documents. It serves as a comprehensive guide to help you make sure that nothing is missing from your application.

Completing the UDI checklist involves selecting your country of citizenship and checking off all relevant application requirements. This step helps organize and verify all necessary documents for a successful application.

Additional Documents for Application

In addition to the primary required documents, applicants may need to provide additional documents based on their circumstances and the type of visa they are applying for. These additional documents can include a business plan, proof of education, or a detailed CV and require a bachelor’s degree, vocational training for 3 years, or 6 years of relevant experience. Ensuring that all required documents are gathered and properly prepared will help streamline the application process and increase the chances of approval.

Digital nomads applying for the Norway Digital Nomad Visa must have valid health insurance that covers them for the entire duration of their stay in Norway. The health insurance must be valid in Norway and provide coverage of at least €30,000. This requirement ensures that applicants are protected in case of medical emergencies and can access necessary healthcare services while living in Norway.

Applying for the Norway digital nomad visa involves a series of steps that are fairly straightforward once all required documents are gathered. The process starts with gathering all required documents, ensuring they are correctly translated and authenticated.

After gathering all documents, the next steps involve submitting your application and waiting for approval. This section will break down these steps in detail, providing a clear roadmap for navigating the application process.

Submitting Your Application

The application process starts online, where you’ll need to fill out the necessary forms and gather your documents. After completing the online portion, you must submit your documents to a local police station may require a biometrics appointment for a photo and fingerprints or consulate in your home country. Be prepared to pay the application fee and visa cost as part of the submission process.

Arrange a visa appointment at your nearest Norwegian embassy before submitting your application. The UDI checklist will help you ensure that all required documents are in order. Once submitted, the maximum waiting period for applications is around 30 days, with typical approval times being about 15 days.

Waiting Period and Approval

The waiting period for visa approval can vary, but on average, it takes about 3-4 months. Submissions made within Norway typically have a shorter waiting period of 2-2.5 months, while those from third countries may take longer. Norway's processing times are competitive compared to the top seven countries offering digital nomad visas, which often have similar requirements and waiting periods. A Schengen visa is often required for travel between these countries.

Various factors can affect the waiting period, including document verification and the workload of the processing authorities. It’s important to be patient and ensure that all your documents are to avoid any unnecessary delays.

The fee to apply for the digital nomad visa in Norway is:

• €600, which is the total cost for the application process

• Approximately 6,300 NOK for obtaining a residence permit for digital nomads in Norway

• An additional cost of €25 if you need to submit documents through a visa center

The application fee and visa cost are essential factors to consider when planning your relocation. These fees must be paid alongside the submission of the necessary documentation for residency and employment verification.

Budgeting for these costs is an important part of your application process. Understanding the financial requirements helps you better prepare for your move to Norway and ensures a smooth transition.

Understanding the tax implications is crucial for digital nomads planning to live in Norway. Foreign nationals’ income is only taxed in Norway if they qualify as a tax resident. To avoid being classified as a tax resident, you must limit your stay in Norway to under 183 days in a year. If you exceed this duration, you will be required to pay taxes and comply with local tax laws.

If you become a tax resident, you will be required to pay local taxes, with the current income tax rate for residents being 22%. Additionally, remote workers under the Norway digital nomad visa must apply for a VAT number as part of their obligation to pay local taxes. Carefully tracking your presence in Norway helps manage your tax obligations effectively.

Living in Norway as a digital nomad offers a unique blend of high living standards and natural beauty. However, the cost of living is notably high, especially in urban areas like Oslo, where housing, food, and transportation can be substantial expenses.

Norway boasts a wide range of coworking spaces that cater to digital nomads, providing essential amenities such as high-speed internet and collaborative environments. These spaces are perfect for remote workers looking to stay productive while enjoying the vibrant Norwegian culture. Notably, startup campuses like Startup Campus in Oslo contribute to a supportive infrastructure for entrepreneurs and freelancers.

Additionally, Svalbard is a visa-free destination, making it an easy and attractive option for digital nomads looking to explore more of Norway.

The lifestyle benefits of living in Norway are unparalleled. From breathtaking natural landscapes and stunning scenery to a rich and vibrant culture, digital nomads can immerse themselves in local traditions, festivals, and cuisine. Whether you’re a graphic designer, web developer, or marketing specialist, Norway offers a stimulating environment to inspire creativity and productivity. Additionally, working with Norwegian clients can be advantageous, as remote workers may receive higher-than-average pay rates and benefit from specific tax requirements and benefits related to working with Norwegian employers.

Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Norway

Norway is a popular destination for digital nomads, offering a unique blend of stunning scenery, unique sunlight hours, and a high standard of living. The country boasts a range of coworking spaces, startup campuses, and other facilities that cater to remote workers, making it an ideal environment for productivity and networking. Digital nomads in Norway can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, skiing, and exploring the country’s beautiful landscapes. While the cost of living in Norway can be high, the country offers numerous benefits, such as free healthcare and education, that make it an attractive destination for digital nomads seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

In Conclusion, the Norway digital nomad visa is an excellent opportunity for those looking to combine work with adventure. By meeting the eligibility criteria and preparing the required documents, you can enjoy up to two years of working remotely in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.

Norway offers a high standard of living, a vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads. Whether you’re seeking flexibility, adventure, or a better work-life balance, the Norway digital nomad visa can help you achieve your goals.

While Norway offers stunning natural beauty and a high standard of living, the Malta Digital Nomad Visa might be a better fit if you're craving year-round sunshine and a warm Mediterranean climate. With over 300 days of sun, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant expat scene, Malta is a paradise for remote workers who thrive in social, sunny settings. It’s also home to Evolve Coliving, a dedicated community space designed specifically for digital nomads looking for connection, collaboration, and a supportive lifestyle. Curious, you can also check out the 'Living In Malta Guide' for more info!

And if you want to see a full list of 70+ countries that provide digital nomad visas, please check out 'The Ultimate Guide to Digital Nomad Visas Worldwide 2025' 

To conclude, here is the full list of countries, where you can get a Digital Nomad Visa in 2025:

*Digital Nomad Visa introduced but not yet implemented