Norway•EuropeErasmus+ Volunteer Permit
At a Glance
1-3 months
Not confirmed
Approx. 6,300 NOK
Up to 2 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Residence permit for EU Erasmus+ volunteers undertaking authorized service projects in Norway for up to 2 years.
The Erasmus+ Volunteer Permit is Norway's pathway for EU Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps participants. Administered by Bufdir, it grants legal residency to volunteers aged 18+ with an accredited host placement. Applicants must provide program confirmation, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial means.
The permit allows up to two years of stay and is renewable. Volunteers may work within their placement and undertake part-time or seasonal employment. The application fee is approximately 6,300 NOK, with processing taking 1–3 months. Spouses and dependents may accompany. Time on this permit does not count toward permanent residence.
This visa is ideal for professionals aged 18 and older committed to structured volunteer placements in environmental conservation, social work, youth education, or community development, seeking cross-border Nordic experience.
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
NorwaySkilled Worker Permit (Oppholdstillatelse som fagarbeider)
NorwayResidence permit for studies
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be a participant in the EU Erasmus+ volunteer programme.
Must have a confirmation from the Norwegian Directorate for Children, Youth and Family Affairs (Bufdir).
Must have a place to live in Norway.
Must have sufficient funds to support oneself.
Must be at least 18 years old.
Must have a valid passport.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport.
Confirmation from Bufdir.
Erasmus+ volunteering agreement signed by all parties.
Proof of accommodation.
Proof of financial means.
Completed application form and checklist.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Open to all nationalities — no citizenship or country-of-origin restrictions
- Legally work for your designated volunteer project throughout your stay
- Spouse has unrestricted work authorization while you volunteer
- Dependents can accompany you during the volunteer period
- Renewable permit allows extended participation in multi-year programs
- Can convert to skilled worker or study permit after completing volunteer service
- Relatively fast processing time of 1-3 months
- No background waiver needed — case-by-case criminal review available
Worth Knowing
- Permit limited to maximum 2 years per cycle; time toward permanent residence does not accrue
- Work authorization restricted to your designated volunteer project only
- Requires official Bufdir confirmation — placement must be through accredited organization
- Minimum age 18; intended primarily for participants aged 18-30
- Cannot engage in routine paid employment or serve as sole carer for vulnerable persons
- No path to permanent residence — volunteer time does not count toward residency requirements
Application Process
Secure a volunteer placement with an accredited organization in Norway.
Obtain the necessary confirmation/support letter from Bufdir.
Register the application online via the UDI Application Portal.
Pay the application fee (approx. 6,300 NOK).
Submit physical documents and biometrics at a Norwegian embassy or VFS center.
Wait for processing and receive the residence permit.
Related visas
More visas in Norway
Work visas in other countries
- Religious Worker
United States
- Atlantic Immigration Program
Canada
- EU Blue Card
Portugal
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