Work visa to Norway for Ukrainians: requirements, documents, types of visas
Main types of work visas for Ukrainians in Norway
1. Visa for skilled workers. This type of visa is suitable for Ukrainians who have
- at least three years of professional education at the high school level (for example, in the fields of construction, medicine)
- a university or college degree (bachelor's degree or higher), for example, in engineering or nursing;
- significant work experience that compensates for the lack of formal education (usually more than 6 years), for example, as a painter or other professional field.
2. Seasonal work visa for Ukrainians in Norway. This type of visa is suitable for short-term work in agriculture, forestry, fishing or tourism. Conditions:
- a confirmed full-time job offer;
- the corresponding minimum hourly wage, as for Norwegian workers;
- seasonal or temporary nature of the work (for example, in case of replacing an employee during a vacation).
Important: This visa is not suitable for work in non-seasonal industries, such as carpentry or painting.
Who can apply for a work visa to Norway?
Ukrainians can apply for a work visa to Norway if they
- have the appropriate education, experience or qualifications for the job;
- have received a full-time job offer from a Norwegian employer;
- receive a salary that is not lower than the minimum wage for Norwegian citizens;
- have an impeccable reputation (no criminal record);
- are over 18 years old.
💡 Work visa to Norway for Ukrainians: where to start?
Obtaining a work visa to Norway for Ukrainian citizens may require careful preparation of documents and fulfillment of all requirements. If you are not sure of the correctness of the procedure or want to avoid unnecessary difficulties, use the legal support service for employment abroad from Visit Ukraine.
What does the service include?
- Consultation and analysis. Selection of the best job options taking into account the Norwegian labor market.
- Preparation of documents. Legalization of diplomas, translations, resumes and motivation letters.
- Legal due diligence and preparation for interviews. Checking documents for compliance and preparing for interviews.
- Support during the employment process. Interaction with the employer, checking the employment contract, assistance with visa and permit.
- Support at the new place. We help with organizational issues (finding accommodation, health insurance, opening an account) and provide support during adaptation in Norway.
🫂 With Visit Ukraine, the process of employment abroad will become transparent and reliable.
Documents for an employment visa to Norway
To obtain a Norwegian work visa, Ukrainians need to prepare:
- Passport: please also submit copies of all used pages.
- A completed visa application form, which can be found on the UDI website.
- Two passport-size photos.
- A document proving the availability of housing in Norway (lease agreement or other evidence).
- A job offer from an employer in Norway.
- Proof of salary (employment contract with the specified salary).
- Documents on education and qualifications (diplomas, certificates).
- Proof of work experience (recommendations from previous employers).
- Resume.
- If you are outside your home country: proof of legal residence.
- A power of attorney for submitting documents from your employer, if necessary.
- Additional documents if you are going to work with several employers or in the format of continuous short-term contracts.
Other types of work visas for Ukrainians in Norway
- Nanny visa: for residential childcare in a family (valid for 2 years).
- Practitioner visa: for gaining professional skills and practical experience.
- Visitor visa: for cultural exchange or short-term stay (up to 3 months, without extension).
- Visa for work in the fishing industry: for one year with a limited scope of activities.
Financial support requirements for Ukrainians in Norway
In addition to the basic documents, to obtain a Norwegian work visa, you need to have financial security:
- application fee - 6300 Norwegian kroner;
- monthly budget - at least 22,167 NOK or 132,999 NOK for 6 months (funds must be personal and in a Norwegian bank account).
💡 Tips for preparing documents for a work visa to Norway for Ukrainians
- Collect originals and copies of all required documents.
- Make sure that all documents are translated into English or Norwegian by a qualified translator.
- Download the checklist of documents from the official UDI website to avoid mistakes during the application process.
- Ukrainians can find vacancies on official job search sites in Norway or through the services of recruitment agencies working with Norway.
Norway is considered a good choice for employment among Ukrainians for several reasons:
- Strong economy. Norway has one of the strongest economies in the world, characterized by low unemployment and high wages. The country's economic stability and constant growth create numerous employment opportunities in various industries, making it an attractive destination for foreign workers looking for work.
- High standard of living. Norway is consistently ranked among the top countries in the world in terms of living standards, offering a high quality of life and well-developed public services. The country prioritizes social welfare, providing access to healthcare, education and social protection for its residents;
- Labor market and opportunities. Norway has a diverse labor market, with demand for skilled workers in industries such as oil and gas, engineering, information technology, healthcare, finance, and renewable energy. The country actively encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, providing an environment conducive to professional growth.
- Work-life balance. The Norwegian work culture places a strong emphasis on achieving a healthy work-life balance. Standard working hours tend to be reasonable, with an emphasis on productivity rather than the length of the working day;
- High salaries and benefits. Norway is known for its high salaries, which ensures that employees are fairly compensated for their work. Salaries in Norway are often significantly higher than in many other countries, and employees are entitled to various benefits such as paid vacation, sick leave and pension schemes;
- Equality and social inclusion. The country promotes gender equality, diversity and anti-discrimination measures in the workplace, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for foreign workers. Norwegian companies prioritize diversity and value the contribution of people with different backgrounds.
- Safe and stable environment. Norway is known for its security, low crime rate and political stability. The country provides a safe environment for both residents and foreign workers.
What professions are in demand in Norway?
In Norway, there are several professions that are in high demand for foreign workers due to a shortage of skills in the local labor market:
- Engineering: Norway has a high demand for engineers, especially in the fields of petroleum, civil, mechanical, electrical and software engineering. The country's thriving oil and gas industry, as well as its focus on renewable energy sources, create opportunities for skilled engineers.
- Information Technology (IT): Norway's tech sector is growing rapidly, leading to a significant need for IT professionals: software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence skills.
- Healthcare and Nursing: Norway has a shortage of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and specialists. Foreign healthcare professionals who meet the country's licensing and certification requirements can find good employment opportunities in hospitals, clinics and nursing homes.
- Teaching and education: Norway values quality education and is looking for qualified foreign teachers, especially those who can teach subjects such as math, science, foreign languages and special education. Teaching positions often require knowledge of the Norwegian language.
- Finance and Accounting: Norway's financial sector is strong, creating demand for professionals in accounting, auditing, financial analysis and banking. Fluency in English and knowledge of Norwegian accounting practices is often a prerequisite.
- Construction: The construction industry in Norway is booming and ongoing infrastructure projects require skilled builders, architects, project managers and surveyors. Knowledge of construction trades and local regulations is an advantage.
- Oil and gas industry: Norway is a major player in the oil and gas sector and there is a constant demand for professionals in various fields including geology, geophysics, drilling, field development and offshore operations. Industry experience and relevant qualifications are generally required.
- Maritime and shipping industry: Norway's long coastline and maritime activities create a need for maritime professionals such as marine engineers, naval architects, shipbuilders and seafarers. Fluency in English and relevant certifications are essential for these professions.
- Hospitality and tourism: The tourism industry in Norway is growing, creating opportunities for foreigners in hospitality, hotel management, tour services and restaurant management. English language skills and knowledge of other foreign languages can be useful.
- Research and Science: Norway pays considerable attention to research and development, making it an attractive country for scientists, researchers and teachers. Positions are available at universities, research institutes and private companies, especially in areas such as renewable energy, climate change, biotechnology and marine science.
Work in Norway for refugees from Ukraine
What do you need to know before looking for a job?
You should get collective protection before you start looking for and applying for a job.
When you register as an asylum seeker from Ukraine with the UDI (immigration authorities), you will receive a temporary Norwegian identification number, number D.
When working in Norway, it is important to understand your employment rights and obligations. On this page you will find useful information about why you need a written employment contract, a tax card, and more.
Support from the Norwegian Directorate of Labor and Welfare (NAV)
If you have been granted collective protection, you may be entitled to assistance from the NAV.
Information from NAV for refugees from Ukraine
If you work in Norway, you automatically become a member of the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme from the first day of work.
As a member of the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme, NAV is responsible for your rights to family benefits, pensions, healthcare and much more.
