Labour immigration

Migrant workers from EEA

International cooperation is important for the Norwegian labour market. We take part in the common Nordic labour market together with the Nordic countries, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland. Nordic citizens can move freely between the Nordic countries to take up work.

Norway also takes part in the internal market of the EU through the EEA Agreement, which entails free movement of workers between the EEA States. EEA nationals may reside and work in Norway without having to apply for a residence permit.

The Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration cooperates with other national Employment Services and the European Commission through the European network of Employment Services (EURES). EURES is a European cooperation network of employment services, designed to facilitate mobility, recruitment of labour and job searches. For more Information about the labour market and how to find jobs in the EEA area, see the EURES portal.

Migrant workers from outside the EEA

Norwegian companies may also recruit workers from outside the EEA (third country nationals). It follows from the Norwegian Immigration Act, that a third country national who wants to work in Norway must apply for a residence permit. Residence permits will be granted to migrant workers based on their skills and employment in Norway. Most migrant workers from third countries are skilled workers or seasonal workers. Self-employed persons and service suppliers may also apply for residence permits. The Directorate of Immigration (UDI) handles applications for residence permits in Norway.