On Jun. 26, NOR GVT updated on residence permit requirements.
NOR GVT lifts requirement for oral Norwegian proficiency for foreigner to be eligible for permanent residence permit in Norway from Sep. 1, 2025 but is also raising some.
Overview
Foreigners who want permanent residence permit in Norway should have certain level of oral Norwegian, being able to speak and understand Norwegian is important prerequisite to participate in education and work, said Minister of Justice.
Norwegian requirement raised one level from A1 to A2; levels follow Common EU Framework of Reference for Languages, scale A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, A1 is lowest.
At level A2, person can understand simple everyday language, express himself/herself easily on topics related to own person and family, immediate surroundings and work.
Person can manage in simple, routine conversational situations with a direct exchange of information on familiar matters, if chat partner speaks slowly, clearly, wants to help.
Norwegian requirement does not apply if foreigner documents special health reasons or personal circumstances that foreigner has no control over, which mean foreigner does not have opportunity to pass the Norwegian language test at level A2.
May include adult immigrants with little or no school background who have no/limited literacy, elderly; new rules for applications for permanent residence post Sep. 1, 2025.
