Become a Norwegian citizen

For my last and final suggestion on living like a Norwegian, I’ll share perhaps the most Norwegian thing you can do, become a Norwegian citizen.

The good news is Norway does allow for you to become a citizen and even hold dual citizenship. So you don’t have to completely give up on the motherland to enjoy the lifetime benefits of a Norwegian passport. There are also many benefits to having Norwegian citizenship in addition to the passport itself. First and foremost, you’ll never have to navigate UDI again.

The best place to start when it comes to citizenship is the UDI website. Here you can look up your specific situation and what the current rules are. It also has detailed guides in several languages. In general, you need to have resided in Norway for at least seven years and have held valid resident permits during that time. Additionally, you need to pass an exam on Norwegian history and speak the Norwegian language to a certain level.

Having distant Norwegian relatives does not, unfortunately, get you a free pass to citizenship. But if you bring up this point Norwegians will think it’s cute and smile.

Norway, known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and high quality of life, is an attractive destination for people from around the world. If you’ve spent a considerable amount of time in Norway and wish to become a Norwegian citizen, the process involves several steps, requirements, and considerations. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of becoming a Norwegian citizen.

Residence Requirements

Before considering Norwegian citizenship, it’s essential to meet specific residence requirements. Typically, you must have legally resided in Norway for a certain period. The exact duration can vary based on your circumstances:

General Residence Requirement: Most applicants must have lived in Norway for at least seven of the last ten years on a legal residence permit.
Marriage or Partnership with a Norwegian Citizen: If you are married or in a registered partnership with a Norwegian citizen, the residence requirement is usually three years within the last ten years.
Refugees and Stateless Persons: Refugees and stateless individuals may be eligible for accelerated citizenship, which typically requires living in Norway for three years.

Permanent Residence Permit

To apply for Norwegian citizenship, you need to have a permanent residence permit in Norway. This permit usually requires several years of continuous legal residence. During this period, you must demonstrate that you have been self-supporting, law-abiding, and free from criminal convictions.

Language and Social Studies

Norwegian authorities will evaluate your proficiency in the Norwegian language and your understanding of Norwegian society. You’ll need to pass the required language tests and demonstrate your knowledge of Norwegian culture, history, and society.

Background Checks and Documents

As part of the application process, you will undergo background checks. This includes providing police certificates from your home country or other countries where you’ve lived. You must also provide necessary identification and documentation, such as your residence permit, birth certificate, and marriage or divorce certificates, if applicable.

Application Process

To apply for Norwegian citizenship, you will need to complete an application form provided by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI). The application process involves submitting the necessary documents, paying a fee, and attending an interview at your local police station. The police will conduct an interview to verify your identity and gather additional information.

Waiting Period

After submitting your application, there is a waiting period while the Norwegian authorities review your case. This can take several months, and you will be notified of the decision in writing.

Dual Citizenship

Norway allows dual citizenship, which means you can retain your original citizenship while becoming a Norwegian citizen. However, you should check with your home country’s regulations, as some countries may have restrictions on dual citizenship.

Ceremony and Pledge of Allegiance

If your application is approved, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony. During this ceremony, you will take a pledge of allegiance to Norway and its constitution. This is a symbolic moment, marking your transition into Norwegian citizenship.

Rights and Responsibilities

As a Norwegian citizen, you will enjoy the same rights as native Norwegians, such as voting in elections and having access to social services. You will also have the responsibility to abide by Norwegian laws and contribute to society through taxes and civic participation.

Conclusion

Becoming a Norwegian citizen is a significant step in your journey, and it involves meeting specific residence requirements, passing language and cultural tests, and undergoing background checks. Norway’s citizenship process reflects the country’s commitment to ensuring that new citizens are integrated into Norwegian society and understand its values and way of life. If you decide to pursue Norwegian citizenship, carefully follow the requirements and guidelines set by the Norwegian authorities, and you can enjoy the benefits and responsibilities of being a part of this vibrant and inclusive society.