Study permit (residence permit for studies)
For students admitted to full-time higher education at an approved institution in Norway.
The Study permit (residence permit for studies) is a Norwegian study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NOK 5,400) and processing time (~1-2 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Study permit (residence permit for studies) is for
For students admitted to full-time higher education at an approved institution in Norway.
Study time does not count towards PR, but you can switch to a post-study job-seeker or work permit.
Study permit (residence permit for studies) - eligibility criteria
- Admission to a full-time approved course/institution
- Proof of funds (subsistence requirement) for the study year
- Suitable housing in Norway
- Plan to leave when studies finish (or change permit)
Study permit (residence permit for studies) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Study permit (residence permit for studies) (Norway) is ~NOK 5,400, with an indicative processing time of ~1-2 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at UDI (Norway).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside Norway |
| Length of stay | Up to 1 year at a time (renewable for the course) |
| Work rights | Part-time work up to 20 hours/week and full-time in holidays |
| Study rights | Full-time approved study programme |
| Government fee | ~NOK 5,400 |
| Processing time | ~1-2 months |
| Route to PR | Study time does not count towards PR, but you can switch to a post-study job-seeker or work permit. |
Pathway & next steps
Study time does not count towards PR, but you can switch to a post-study job-seeker or work permit.
Many applicants also compare Post-Study Job Seeker · Residence permit to seek work after completed education or research, Researcher · Residence permit for researchers with own funds / hired researcher, Skilled Worker · Residence permit for skilled workers. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Norwegian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Study permit (residence permit for studies) pitfalls we fix
Study permit (residence permit for studies) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Study permit (residence permit for studies) cost?
The Study permit (residence permit for studies) government fee is ~NOK 5,400. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at UDI (Norway) before applying.
How long does the Study permit (residence permit for studies) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-2 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Study permit (residence permit for studies) lead to permanent residence?
Study time does not count towards PR, but you can switch to a post-study job-seeker or work permit.
Can I work on the Study permit (residence permit for studies)?
Work rights: Part-time work up to 20 hours/week and full-time in holidays.
Who can apply for the Study permit (residence permit for studies)?
For students admitted to full-time higher education at an approved institution in Norway.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Norway government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- UDI (Norway) - official Norway immigration authority