Published 20/12/2009
The new Immigration Act and Immigration Regulations enter into force on 1 January 2010. Read more about some of the important
features of the new Act here.
The term residence permit replaces residence and work permits, so that all permits are called residence permits. In principle, a residence permit will entitle the holder to work in Norway, but in some cases, it will be specified that the residence permit does not entitle the holder to work or that certain restrictions will apply in relation to work. The term work permit will no longer be used.
Early work start makes it possible to start working in Norway early. The arrangement with early work start makes it possible for work migrants to start working before the application for residence permit has been processed and granted.
Easier registration for EEA nationals and their family members who are also EEA nationals. The new Act simplifies procedures for EEA nationals who find work in Norway and move here. EEA nationals who receive an offer of employment in Norway no longer need to submit an application, they are only required to register at a police station and submit documentation of the employment.
However, an exemption is made in the Act for nationals of Bulgaria and Romania who receive an offer of employment in Norway for the first time. They must continue to submit standard applications before they can be granted residence permits in Norway and are thus covered by so-called transitional rules.
Read more about the new Immigration Act.