Norway Seasonal Work Visa: New rules you must know in 2025
Your guide to eligibility criteria and the application process
Norway’s Seasonal Work Visa programme is undergoing significant changes in 2025, introducing stricter eligibility requirements and updated processes for applicants.
Designed for roles tied to seasonal demand, the revised programme aims to address labour shortages while ensuring compliance with Norwegian regulations.
Here’s a complete guide to understanding the new rules, eligibility criteria, and how to apply for the Seasonal Work Visa.
What’s new in 2025?
From 2025 onwards, Norways’ Seasonal Work Visa programme will:
- Focus on Specific Job Categories: Only roles in agriculture (e.g., crop harvesting, tree planting), forestry (logging operations), tourism, and seasonal construction jobs will qualify. Trades like carpentry and painting are excluded.
- Mandate 6 months outside Norway: Visa holders must spend six months outside the country before reapplying.
- Strengthen Employment Requirements: Applicants must secure a concrete, full-time job offer from a registered Norwegian company. Multiple job offers are allowed, provided each employer submits a separate contract.
- Emphasise Documentation: Proof of accommodation, financial resources, and health insurance will be strictly enforced.
These updates aim to streamline the visa process while prioritising roles with genuine seasonal needs.
Eligibility criteria
To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Employment Offer: A full-time job offer in an eligible sector is mandatory. For multiple employers, separate offers are required.
- Accommodation Proof: Documented evidence of adequate housing for the duration of the stay in Norway.
- Financial Resources: Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves without relying on public assistance.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance is compulsory for the entire employment period.
- Home Country Ties: Applicants must prove they have strong ties to their home country, ensuring they will return after their visa expires.
Step-by-step application guide
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Begin by finding a full-time position in an eligible sector, such as agriculture or tourism. The job must be with a registered Norwegian employer, and the offer should include detailed terms of employment.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents, including:
- Job offer letter(s)
- Proof of accommodation
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds
- Health insurance policy documents
- Passport and other identification
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications can be submitted online via the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) portal or through a Norwegian embassy in your home country. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
Step 4: Attend Biometrics Appointment
Schedule and attend an appointment to provide biometric data (e.g., fingerprints, photograph). This step is crucial for processing your application.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Authorities recommend applying well in advance, as processing times can vary, especially during peak seasons. Delays may occur, so plan accordingly.
Key tips
Start Early: Apply immediately after securing a job to account for potential delays.
Double-Check Documents: Ensure all paperwork is complete and matches the requirements.
Monitor Processing Times: Keep track of updates on the UDI website to stay informed about your application status.
Understand Your Rights: The visa allows only temporary employment and does not count toward permanent residency.
What else you need to know
Duration Limits: Seasonal workers cannot stay in Norway for more than six months in a 12-month period.
Family Restrictions: Dependents are not eligible for residence permits under this visa.
Short-Term Jobs: For employment under three months, some applicants may not require a residence permit.