Norway is one of the most beautiful and welcoming countries in Europe, attracting many immigrants with its high standard of living and stunning landscapes. In 2025, if you’re an immigrant interested in visiting or working in Norway, it’s essential to understand the visa and sponsorship options available, especially if you’re looking to earn a salary of $50,000 or more.
1. Norway Tourist Visa
The Norway Tourist Visa is a short-term visa that allows you to visit Norway for tourism, business meetings, or family visits for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. While this visa does not allow you to work, it can serve as a first step to explore opportunities in the country.
- Eligibility: You must have a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for your stay. You must also demonstrate the purpose of your visit.
- Salary: The tourist visa does not allow you to earn a salary, but it can be used to explore employment opportunities.
2. Norway Work Visa
If you’re interested in working in Norway and earning a salary of $50,000 or more, a Norway Work Visa is your best option. There are various work visas depending on the type of employment you’re seeking.
- Skilled Worker Visa: This visa is for individuals with a job offer in a skilled occupation. To qualify, you need to have a job that requires higher education or specialized training.
- Eligibility: A job offer from a Norwegian employer is required, and the employer must demonstrate that the job cannot be filled by an EU/EEA national. The salary must meet the minimum threshold, typically around NOK 450,000 ($50,000+).
3. EU Blue Card for Skilled Workers
If you have a higher education degree and wish to work in Norway in a specialized role, the EU Blue Card is an excellent option. This work and residence permit is available for highly qualified workers in the EU.
- Eligibility: To apply, you need a job offer with a salary above NOK 450,000, a recognized higher education degree, and relevant professional experience.
- Salary: This visa is designed for high-paying roles, and the salary threshold for qualification is above NOK 450,000, which translates to approximately $50,000+.
4. Sponsorship in Norway
While tourists cannot work under the tourist visa, immigrants who secure a work visa may be sponsored by a Norwegian employer. Sponsorship is common in sectors such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and more.
- How it works: Your employer will apply for the necessary work visa on your behalf. If your job is in demand, you may also qualify for the fast-track work visa process.
- Salary: With a sponsored job, earning a salary of $50,000 or more is common, especially in specialized roles in technology, healthcare, and engineering fields.
5. Residence Permit for Self-Employed Individuals
If you have the skills to start your own business in Norway, you can apply for a residence permit for self-employed individuals. To qualify, your business must be viable and generate sufficient income to support you and your family.
- Eligibility: A clear business plan, sufficient financial backing, and a well-developed market for your services are necessary to secure this type of visa.
- Salary: As a self-employed individual, your income will depend on the success of your business, but it’s possible to earn $50,000+ depending on your sector and business size.
Conclusion
In 2025, Norway offers various pathways for immigrants to enter the country through a tourist visa or work visa. If you’re looking to earn a salary of $50,000 or more, securing a skilled worker visa or EU Blue Card is the most effective option. You’ll need a job offer from a Norwegian employer and proof that you meet the salary and skill requirements. By understanding the visa options available and ensuring you meet the criteria, you can successfully navigate the process to work and live in Norway.