Norwegian visa resources
Processing times for a Norway visa application
UDI publishes route-specific expected waiting times counted from when you submit your application and documents; they are guidance, not a promise.
Important
UDI does not use a single fixed processing time for all national applications. Instead it publishes expected waiting times per route (for example work, family immigration, study and permanent residence) on its website, and these are updated regularly. The clock generally starts when you have submitted your application together with your documents and biometrics at the police/SUA in Norway or at an application centre or embassy abroad.
UDI is explicit that these figures are only a guide: some cases take longer than others depending on complexity and completeness, so it cannot say exactly when a given decision will be made.
How the waiting time works
- The waiting time is measured from when you hand in the application and documents, not from when you started the form
- UDI shows how many people are currently in the queue for each route
- While you wait you receive periodic confirmation (by email or SMS) that your case is still in line
- Incomplete applications and missing documents extend the time
Appeals
- If you appeal a refusal, UDI first reviews the appeal
- Cases UDI does not overturn are forwarded to the Immigration Appeals Board (UNE)
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.