Norway•EuropeStudent Residence Permit - Upper Secondary School
At a Glance
Varies
NOK kr 2,700–kr 5,400
Varies by filing options
Varies (Non-renewable; used to transition to skilled worker permit upon finding employment)
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
No dependents
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Student residence permit for international students attending Norwegian upper secondary schools, with work authorization up to 20 hours per week during term.
The Student Residence Permit for Upper Secondary School, issued by Norway's Directorate of Immigration (UDI), enables international students to attend upper secondary school (videregående skole). Applicants must secure admission to a recognized school, maintain full-time enrollment, and have sufficient financial resources (minimum NOK 170,368) to support themselves without public assistance.
Duration depends on the educational program and is non-renewable; holders may convert to job-seeker or study permits after completion. Application fees are NOK 5,400 (age 18+) or NOK 2,700 (under 18). Students may work up to 20 hours weekly during studies or full-time during holidays; remote work permitted, self-employment not. Processing times vary.
This visa is ideal for international secondary students accepted to Norwegian schools through exchange programs or vocational tracks who can demonstrate financial self-sufficiency and intend to return home after studies.
Cost Breakdown
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
NorwayJob Seeker Permit - Recent Graduate (Oppholdstillatelse som arbeidssøker)
NorwayResidence permit for studies
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be admitted to an upper secondary school in Norway
Must attend the school full-time
Must have sufficient funds to cover living expenses (as defined by UDI)
Must have a place to live (accommodation)
Must pay the application fee
Must demonstrate that it is likely the student can return home after completing their studies
Must meet specific criteria for exchange programs or cooperation agreements (as upper secondary permits are generally restricted)
KEY CRITERIA
Min. Savings
170,368 NOK
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Letter of admission from the Norwegian school
Documentation of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, grants)
Proof of accommodation
Valid passport
Application fee payment receipt
Documentation of previous education (transcripts/diplomas)
Motivation letter (if required by the institution)
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Minimum savings of NOK 170,368 covers living expenses; institutions provide health insurance support
- Work permitted up to 20 hours/week during studies, full-time during school holidays
- Can transition to Job Seeker Permit (full-time work) or Study Permit after completion
- Age-differentiated fee structure: NOK 2,700 (under 18), NOK 5,400 (18+)
- Up to 2 years study duration in Norwegian upper secondary school system
Worth Knowing
- Non-renewable—must secure Job Seeker Permit or Study Permit to continue residence
- Contingent on full-time enrollment and maintaining satisfactory academic progress
- Restricted to visa-exempt country nationals with documented financial means
- Self-employment and remote work prohibited during studies
- Requires prior admission letter from accredited Norwegian upper secondary school
Application Process
Verify qualification
Must be from visa-exempt country and have sufficient funds
Prepare application
Gather documents proving financial means
Submit application
Apply through UDI online system
Attend appointment
Biometric appointment if required
Collect permit
Receive residence permit
Application Forms
Go to application portal| Application for a permit for residence or work (GP-7028) | Fill online |
| Consent to children/minors studying in NorwayOptional | Fill online |
Related visas
More visas in Norway
Study visas in other countries
- Student Visa
New Zealand
- Student Visa (Type D)
Ireland
- Student Visa (Учебная виза)
Russia
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