Learn how to get a marriage visa in Norway for foreigners with our step-by-step guide, covering requirements and application processes.

Introduction

Navigating the process of obtaining a marriage visa in Norway as a foreigner can seem complex, but with the right information, it becomes manageable. Norway, known for its stunning landscapes and high quality of life, attracts many who wish to join their spouse or fiancé in the country.

A marriage visa, often referred to as a fiancé visa or family reunification visa, allows non-Norwegian citizens to live in Norway with their partner. This comprehensive guide outlines the steps, requirements, and key considerations for securing a marriage visa in Norway, ensuring compliance with Norwegian immigration laws and Google AdSense policies.

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Understanding the Marriage Visa in Norway

In Norway, a marriage visa falls under the category of family immigration permits, administered by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI). These permits allow foreigners to join their spouse, registered partner, or fiancé in Norway.

The process involves proving a legitimate relationship, meeting financial and housing requirements, and ensuring legal stay in the country. The primary types of permits related to marriage include the fiancé visa (for those intending to marry in Norway) and the family reunification visa (for those already married).

Types of Marriage-Related Visas

Fiancé Visa

The fiancé visa is designed for foreigners planning to marry a Norwegian citizen or a person with permanent residency in Norway. This permit allows a stay of up to six months to complete the marriage. After the marriage, the applicant must apply for a family reunification visa to remain in Norway.

Family Reunification Visa

This visa is for spouses or registered partners of Norwegian citizens or residents. It allows the foreign spouse to live and work in Norway, potentially leading to permanent residency or citizenship after meeting specific criteria.

Eligibility Requirements for a Marriage Visa

To qualify for a marriage visa in Norway, both the applicant and the sponsor (the Norwegian resident or citizen) must meet specific conditions:

For the Applicant (Foreigner)

• Legal Stay: The applicant must be legally present in Norway or their country of application, with a valid passport.

• Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 24 years old to prevent forced marriages.

• Genuine Relationship: The marriage or engagement must be voluntary and not a proforma arrangement for immigration purposes.

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• No Legal Impediments: The applicant must not be married to someone else or subject to a prohibition against entry to Norway or the Schengen area.

For the Sponsor (Norwegian Resident or Citizen)

• Income Requirement: The sponsor must have a minimum annual income of NOK 416,512 (approximately USD 45,000, adjusted annually) to support the applicant. This must be documented for the previous year and during the application process.

• Housing: The sponsor must provide proof of suitable accommodation for both parties.

• Residency Status: The sponsor must be a Norwegian citizen or hold a valid residence permit that can lead to permanent residency.

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Additional Notes

• Marriages conducted abroad must be legally recognized in Norway.

• Norwegian authorities may investigate to ensure the marriage is not a circumvention for immigration purposes.

Required Documents

The application process requires a comprehensive set of documents, which must be in Norwegian, English, or another Nordic language. If documents are in another language, they must be translated by a certified translator and legalized or apostilled.

For the Fiancé Visa

• Valid passport (with at least three months’ validity beyond the intended stay).

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• Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage from the applicant’s home country (valid for four months, apostilled or legalized).

• Personal declaration forms from both partners, confirming eligibility for marriage.

• Proof of legal stay in Norway (e.g., residence permit, visitor visa, or visa-free stay documentation).

• Invitation letter from the sponsor, detailing the relationship and marriage plans.

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• Proof of the sponsor’s income (e.g., employment contract, tax returns, payslips).

• Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental agreement, property deed).

• Divorce or death certificate (if previously married, recognized by the County Governor if foreign).

For the Family Reunification Visa

• Valid passport.

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• Marriage certificate (legalized or apostilled if issued abroad).

• Proof of cohabitation plans in Norway.

• Sponsor’s income documentation (minimum NOK 416,512 annually).

• Proof of suitable housing.

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• Evidence of a genuine relationship (e.g., photos, communication records, joint travel history).

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Verify that both the applicant and sponsor meet all eligibility criteria, including age, income, and legal stay requirements. Check with the UDI website for the most current requirements.

Step 2: Gather Documents

Collect all necessary documents, ensuring they are translated, legalized, or apostilled as required. Double-check that all forms are completed accurately.

Step 3: Apply for a Certificate of No Impediment (If Applying for Fiancé Visa)

Submit an application to the Norwegian Tax Administration for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (prøvingsattest). This certificate, valid for four months, confirms that both parties meet marriage conditions. Processing takes approximately 5–6 weeks, so apply well in advance.

• Online Application: If both parties have a Norwegian national identity number or D-number, apply online via the Tax Administration’s portal.

• Paper Application: Send forms and supporting documents to Skatteetaten, Postboks 9200 Grønland, 0134 Oslo, Norway.

Step 4: Submit the Visa Application

• Fiancé Visa: Register the application online via the UDI website. Schedule an appointment at a Norwegian embassy, consulate, or visa application center to submit documents. If applying from within Norway, visit the local police station or a service center for foreign workers.

• Family Reunification Visa: Apply online through the UDI portal. Submit documents at the nearest Norwegian embassy or visa application center. If the sponsor is already in Norway, the application can be submitted to the local police.

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Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for a family immigration permit is approximately NOK 5,900 (USD 650). Fees may vary, so check the UDI website for the latest amount. Exemptions apply for certain groups, such as those visiting EU/EEA family members.

Step 6: Attend an Interview

Applicants may be required to attend an interview at the Norwegian embassy to verify the relationship’s authenticity. Be prepared to answer questions about your relationship history, wedding plans, and future intentions.

Step 7: Await Processing

Once submitted, the application is processed by the UDI. You may remain in Norway during processing if your current permit allows.

Processing Time and Fees

• Fiancé Visa: Processing typically takes 3–6 months. The permit is valid for six months, during which the marriage must occur.

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• Family Reunification Visa: Processing can take 6–12 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the embassy’s workload.

• Fees: The standard fee is NOK 5,900, payable online during the application process. Additional costs may include translation, legalization, and travel expenses.

After Approval: Next Steps

For Fiancé Visa Holders

• Get Married: Complete the marriage within the six-month validity period. The ceremony can be civil, religious, or humanist, conducted by an authorized officiant.

• Apply for Family Reunification: Submit a family reunification visa application at least one month before the fiancé visa expires. This can be done at the local police station in Norway.

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For Family Reunification Visa Holders

• Register with Authorities: Upon arrival in Norway, book an appointment with the local police within seven days to register as a resident and obtain a residence card.

• Access Benefits: With a residence permit, you are entitled to work, access healthcare (with a fastlege assignment), and potentially apply for permanent residency after three years.

Common Challenges and Solutions

• Document Legalization: Ensure all foreign documents are apostilled or legalized to avoid delays. Contact your home country’s authorities for guidance.

• Income Requirements: If the sponsor’s income is insufficient, explore exemptions (e.g., for refugees) or provide additional financial proof, such as savings.

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• Relationship Verification: Provide ample evidence of a genuine relationship, such as photos, travel records, or communication logs, to counter suspicions of a proforma marriage.

• Processing Delays: Submit applications early and ensure all documents are complete to minimize delays.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start Early: Begin gathering documents and applying for the Certificate of No Impediment well in advance of your planned wedding date.

• Use Certified Translations: Ensure all translations are done by certified professionals to meet Norwegian standards.

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• Consult Experts: Consider hiring an immigration lawyer for complex cases, such as those involving previous marriages or foreign divorces.

• Stay Organized: Keep copies of all documents and correspondence with authorities.

• Check UDI Updates: Regularly visit the UDI website for the latest requirements and processing times.

Conclusion

Obtaining a marriage visa in Norway as a foreigner requires careful planning, thorough documentation, and adherence to immigration regulations. Whether applying for a fiancé visa to marry in Norway or a family reunification visa to join a spouse, understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is crucial.

By preparing all required documents, meeting financial and housing requirements, and submitting a complete application, you can increase your chances of success. For personalized assistance, consider consulting with immigration experts or legal professionals to navigate the process smoothly. With the right approach, you can begin your new life in Norway with your partner, enjoying the country’s high standard of living and opportunities.