.svg){kind=logo}
If you're planning to work in Norway or are already in the country waiting for your work permit decision, it's important to understand your legal standing. Working without proper authorization can lead to serious consequences, including deportation or future bans on entry.
Here’s what you need to know.
Can You Work While Waiting for a Norwegian Work Permit?
In most cases, you cannot legally work in Norway until your residence permit for work has been granted. Norway's immigration authority, UDI (Utlendingsdirektoratet), is clear on this: employment must not start before the permit is approved—unless you meet very specific exceptions.
Exceptions: When Are You Allowed to Work While Waiting?
There are limited scenarios in which you may be allowed to work before receiving a permit decision:
• If you're renewing an existing work permit: You may continue working while waiting for a renewal decision, provided you applied before your previous permit expired.
• Certain residence permits (e.g., au pair permits or some types of student permits) may allow part-time work or internships while the application is being processed—but only if explicitly stated.
• Applicants for a Skilled Worker permit from abroad are not allowed to start working before receiving the permit and entering Norway with the correct visa.
Risks of Working Without a Valid Permit
Working in Norway without the required legal permission can result in:
• Immediate expulsion from the country
• Fines for both the worker and the employer
• Ban on entering Norway or Schengen Area for a specific period
• Difficulty obtaining future visas or residence permits
What Should You Do?
If you’re unsure about your work status while waiting:
• Check your application receipt or case status at UDI.no
• Contact your employer to clarify start date rules
• Do not start work until your permit is officially approved, unless you are clearly covered by an exception
Key Tip
Always submit your application before entering Norway (unless eligible to apply from within the country), and never begin working based on assumptions. Immigration laws are strictly enforced in Norway.
Sources:
• Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI): https://www.udi.no
Disclaimer:
This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. WorkPermitCheck.com is a private service provider and does not issue visas or work permits. For case-specific information, always consult the official UDI website or contact Norwegian immigration authorities.
FAQs
Can I start working if I’ve applied for a Skilled Worker visa from my home country??
No, you must wait until the permit is granted and you have legally entered Norway with the correct visa or residence card.
What if I applied for renewal of my current work permit?
?You may continue working if you submitted your renewal application before your old permit expired and the permit type allows continuation.
Does a job offer letter allow me to begin working?
?No. A job offer alone is not a valid basis to begin working in Norway. You need a formal work permit approval.
Can students work while waiting for a permit renewal??
Yes, in most cases, international students can work part-time (usually up to 20 hours/week) if the previous permit allowed work and the renewal application was submitted on time.
Where can I check the status of my permit application??
You can check the progress of your application on the UDI website.
Let WorkPermitCheck.com help you stay compliant by verifying your job offer and permit documents before you begin working abroad.
August 8, 2025
