Norway is a stunningly beautiful country on the Scandinavian peninsula. While it is a member of the Schengen zone, it is actually a non-EU state. If you’re a digital nomad who doesn’t mind cold weather, appreciates scenic beauty and yearns for a peaceful way of life, the Digital Nomad Visa in Norway (Independent Contract Visa) may be perfect for you.
Norway actually offers two types of Digital Nomad Visas, but in this article, we will focus on the details of the general one.
The second Digital Nomad Visa in Norway is exclusive to the Svalbard Islands, an Arctic archipelago with one of the highest cost-of-living in the world. A noted perk of this Digital Nomad Visa is that it is for life!
Do I Need a Digital Nomad Visa in Norway?
If you want to stay in Norway for a period of longer than 90 days, then yes, you do need a Digital Nomad Visa in Norway. This is true regardless of whether you are an EU/EEA/Swiss national.
The procedure to obtain one is quite simple, however, there are certain requirements that must be fulfilled before approval.
Digital Nomad Visa in Norway
Requirements and Qualifications for a Digital Nomad Visa in Norway
There are a number of required documents you must have in order to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in Norway. Please note that you should bring copies and originals with you to any and all immigration appointments in order to streamline the process.
The required documents include a valid passport, a completed application form, being self-employed with a work contract with a Norwegian company, proof of accommodation, a minimum net income of €35,719 annually (proved with bank statements), education transcripts and degrees, and proof of health insurance valid in Norway.
Norway is unique in that it requires you to have at least one Norwegian client, whereas most countries that offer Digital Nomad Visas (or independent contractor visas) stipulate that you do not have any local clients.
How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Norway
- Gather and double-check the required documents (listed above). You will also need two passport-sized photographs with a white background.
- Print and complete the UDI Checklist. It must be completed in its entirety, signed, and brought with you to your visa appointment. This is very important!
- Submit the Norway independent contractor visa either in Norway at the police station or from your local consulate or embassy abroad. If you submit it in person in Norway, you must prove that you are currently legal in the country.
- Wait for your response! If you apply in Norway, you’ll receive a response within 15 days. If you apply out of the country, you can expect your response within 30 days since the verification of the documents takes much longer.
Do I Need to Pay Taxes with a Digital Nomad Visa in Norway?
Yes! Everyone in Norway is subject to taxation. The current tax rate in Norway for residents is 22% of annual income. Freelancers will have to register with VAT, or ‘value-added tax’.
What Does it Cost for a Digital Nomad Visa in Norway?
The application fee is constantly changing which is due to changes in the visa policies of other countries. However, right now, it’s roughly €600.
Is Getting a Digital Nomad Visa in Norway Worth it?
That all depends! Each digital nomad is different in likes and dislikes, interests, and way of life. Norway is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Its natural beauty draws tourists in from around the world. With its fjords, the northern lights, snow sports, and high quality of life, it’s no wonder the Norwegian people are among the happiest in the world.
Norway is also among the safest and best-developed countries in the world. Its citizens consistently rank among the happiest around the globe.
While Norwegians do, in fact, pay an arm and a leg for their services, the local earnings are very high in comparison to other countries. However, if you’re not earning a Norwegian salary, this could prove to be difficult. Many digital nomads love spending time in countries that stretch their salaries, such as Mexico or Vietnam.
However, there are also some cons to living in Norway. For people with seasonal affective disorder, having so much darkness and winter could be a drain on mental health. If you’re not making a Norwegian salary, you may find the cost of living to be a stretch.
If you’re a person who loves sunshine and time spent in a warm, balmy climate, Norway probably isn’t for you. Cold winters may be too much to handle depending on your country of origin.
Overall, you must compare the pros and cons and how they align with your personal style and interests to determine if a Digital Nomad Visa in Norway is worth it!