Overview
Norway is a Schengen member outside the EU, and its visa process is overseen by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI). In countries where Norway has no consulate of its own, applications are commonly handled by a Danish embassy acting on Norway's behalf, or by a designated Visa Application Centre. Either way, you complete the UDI form yourself and only need to appear in person for the standard EU biometrics step — not because a paid agent is required.
Visa categories
| Schengen Type C | Tourism, business or family visits up to 90 days within any 180-day period. |
|---|---|
| National (long-stay) permit | Work, study or family immigration exceeding 90 days — a separate UDI process. |
Documents checklist
- Passport valid at least 3 months beyond your Schengen departure, with 2 blank pages
- Completed UDI application form, signed
- Biometric photo, 35×45mm, white background
- Travel/health insurance valid across Schengen, minimum €30,000
- Round-trip flight reservation and proof of accommodation
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds
- UDI invitation form (for visiting family/friends) or business invitation letter, where applicable
Step-by-step application process
1. Confirm Norway is your main destination
Apply where you'll spend the most time, or your first entry point if travel is split evenly across Schengen countries.
2. Complete the UDI application form
Fill in your details per udi.no's instructions.
3. Gather your documents
Assemble everything from the checklist above.
4. Book and attend your appointment
Submit documents and give biometrics at the mission or VAC assigned to your location — this may be a Danish embassy representing Norway.
5. Pay the fee
Pay the standard Schengen fee (around €90) at your appointment, often in cash.
6. Track your decision
Standard processing is around 15 calendar days.
Fees & processing time
| Fee | Standard Schengen fee, around €90 — confirm current amount with your assigned mission |
|---|---|
| Processing time | Around 15 calendar days for complete applications |
Sources reviewed: udi.no (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration), VFS Global one-pager guidance covering Nordic representation arrangements. Which mission handles your application varies by country of residence — always confirm before booking.