Norway's New Seasonal Work Visa Rules to Take Effect in 2025

Key Takeaways:

1. The Norwegian authorities have updated the seasonal work visa system, with new regulations set to take effect in 2025.
2. Applicants will need to secure employment in Norway and are encouraged to apply as soon as they have a job offer.
3. Accommodation, income threshold, and health insurance are mandatory requirements during the applicant's stay in Norway.

Norway has revised its Seasonal Work Visa program, which allows foreign workers to come for temporary employment. Starting in 2025, these updates will affect eligibility, application procedures, and the types of jobs included in the program.

The revised system will apply to specific categories of workers, with applicants required to spend at least six months outside Norway before they can reapply.

New Rules Apply to Specific Job Categories: Not all workers can apply for this visa. For instance, those in carpentry, painting, and other trades are excluded, while roles linked to seasonal demand—such as crop harvesting, tree planting, logging, as well as jobs in tourism and construction—will be eligible.

To apply for the seasonal work visa, candidates must first secure a job with a registered Norwegian company. After receiving a job offer, they must also provide proof of accommodation in Norway.

Applicants must demonstrate that they have received a firm full-time job offer, which can come from one or more employers. They must also show proof of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay and obtain mandatory health insurance coverage.

The application process includes submitting required documents through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) or a local embassy, followed by a biometrics appointment.

Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays: Norwegian authorities advise applicants to submit their applications early, especially as holiday periods could lead to processing delays. Ensuring that all documents are correctly completed will help avoid unnecessary setbacks.

The Norwegian Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion previously stated that the country will issue up to 6,000 residence permits for workers, reflecting the growing demand for seasonal labor.