Norway•Europe§6-20 — Residence Permit for Researchers with Own Funds
At a Glance
1 day – 4 months
NOK kr 5,400
2 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote work OK
Overview
Research permit for master's-degree-holders conducting self-funded research at Norwegian institutions, renewable for up to 2-year periods tied to project duration.
Residence Permit for Researchers with Own Funds allows self-funded scholars to conduct research at Norwegian institutions. Applicants must hold a master's degree or higher, secure a research affiliation, and demonstrate sufficient funds (NOK 166,859 annually). The permit is for independent researchers not employed by a Norwegian employer.
Duration is up to 2 years per grant, renewable for additional 2-year periods tied to the research project. Standard fee is NOK 5,400. Work is permitted part-time (up to 20 hours weekly) or full-time during holidays. Family members may accompany. Processing takes up to 4 months.
This visa is ideal for independent scholars and externally-funded researchers seeking advanced study and professional development at Norwegian institutions without a formal employment contract.
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 2 years |
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Master's degree or higher
Research affiliation with a Norwegian institution
Sufficient funds (at least NOK 166,859 per year)
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Proof of master's degree
Research project description
Proof of sufficient funds
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Allows part-time work (20 hours/week) plus full-time employment during holidays without employer sponsorship
- Family members can accompany without requiring separate visa applications
- Remote work permitted while maintaining research affiliation with Norwegian institution
- Research-based independence — no job offer needed, funded via grants or personal savings
- Modest application fee of NOK 5,400 compared to employment-based work visas
- Research affiliation provides access to Norwegian institutions without formal employment contract
Worth Knowing
- Minimum annual self-funding requirement of NOK 170,368 (2025/2026)
- Master's degree or equivalent required as baseline qualification
- Processing takes up to 4 months from application submission
- No pathway to permanent residence or citizenship — remains temporary status throughout permit duration
Application Process
Confirm research affiliation
Apply via UDI portal
Pay fee
Visit VFS Global for biometrics
Application Forms
| UDI Application Portal | Fill online |
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