Requirements for Norwegian citizenship

Norwegian citizenship is the next step after a permanent residence permit for most people.

The requirements, in brief

• Residence period in Norway, longer than for permanent residence.
• Permanent residence permit, or that you meet the conditions for one.
• Confirmed identity.
• Norwegian language skills, documented.
• Knowledge of Norwegian society. The statsborgerprøven (Norwegian citizenship test), unless you have passed the samfunnskunnskapsprøven (social studies test) in Norwegian.
• Conduct. Criminal offences can result in delay or refusal.

The exam part, which we know a thing or two about

This is where people most often stumble, because they think it's already done.

If you took the samfunnskunnskapsprøven in Norwegian when you applied for permanent residence, the knowledge requirement is already covered, and you don't need to take the statsborgerprøven.

If you took it in another language, you need to take the statsborgerprøven. It's only available in Norwegian, has 36 questions of which 32 count, and you need 24 correct answers.

You get to keep your old citizenship

Since 1 January 2020, Norway has allowed dual citizenship. You don't need to give up what you already have to become Norwegian. Whether the other country allows it is a different matter, and that's decided by them, not by Norway.

Numbers and deadlines

Residence period requirements and exceptions vary by group and change over time. UDI has the current requirements, and that's where you check your case.