EU/EEA and non-EEA routes, first steps after you get the job, and one page per origin country.
In short: EU/EEA citizens can stay up to three months without registering and register with the police as job seekers (up to six months to find work). Citizens of other countries normally need a residence permit; the common route is the skilled worker permit, which needs a concrete job offer and qualifications. Always check UDI before travelling or paying anyone.
By AtiveSite · Published 06/11/2026 · Updated 06/11/2026 · Every figure is linked to its source below.
You can stay up to three months without registering.
If you came to look for work, register with the police as a job seeker no later than three months after arrival; you can stay up to six months to find a job. Registration is free.
After at least one year as an employee, you can look for a new job without a fixed time limit if you are registered with NAV.
Citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA (for example Brazil)
You need a residence permit to work. The common route is the skilled worker permit: vocational training of at least three years or higher education, plus a concrete job offer from one specific employer, at least 80 per cent of a full-time position, and pay and conditions not poorer than normal in Norway.
You may not start work before the permit is granted, except with a confirmation of early employment start from the police.
If you lose your job you may stay up to six months to find a new one (notify the police within seven days). Permanent residence can be applied for after three years. Fees and processing times change: UDI – skilled workers.
Self-employment has its own rules (UDI lists a minimum pre-tax income of NOK 341,373 per year for self-employed applicants).
First steps after you get the job
Tax deduction card: required to work in Norway. Your employer can apply for it (form RF-1355). You must attend an ID check at a tax office first; then it usually takes up to four working days. Until it exists your employer must deduct 50 per cent tax.
D-number / national identity number: a D-number becomes inactive five years after it was assigned and must then be reactivated, usually through an ID check.
Report your move to Norway and get an electronic ID for public online services.
Read your written contract against the Law tab before the first day.