To apply for a Work Permit Visa for Norway from Bangladesh, you will need to follow a structured process. Norway is part of the Schengen Area, and for working in Norway, you typically need a residence permit for work. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Types of Work Visas for Norway
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Skilled Worker Visa:
- For people who have a job offer in Norway requiring a specific qualification (e.g., a university degree or vocational training).
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Seasonal Worker Visa:
- For workers in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and construction, typically for a temporary job during peak seasons.
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Job Seeker Visa (for Skilled Workers):
- Allows highly qualified individuals to enter Norway to look for a job. After finding employment, you can apply for a work permit.
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Temporary Worker Visa (for special circumstances):
- For people who have specific skills or expertise needed temporarily in Norway.
Requirements for Applying for a Work Permit Visa
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Job Offer:
- You must have a confirmed job offer in Norway. Your employer should initiate the application process for a residence permit and work visa.
- Your job must meet the salary requirements and employment conditions in Norway.
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Documentation:
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Norway and have at least two blank pages.
- Completed Application Form: Filled out and signed work permit application form.
- Passport-sized Photos: Recent passport-sized photographs (usually two).
- Job Offer Letter: From your employer in Norway, confirming the details of the job and salary.
- Educational Qualifications: Copies of your degrees and certifications relevant to the job you are applying for.
- Proof of Work Experience: Your CV and references or letters from previous employers.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance or arrangements for healthcare coverage.
- Proof of Accommodation: Where you will stay in Norway.
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Residence Permit:
- You must apply for a residence permit before you can work in Norway. The application can be done online via the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website.
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Salary Requirements:
- Your employer must meet the salary requirements specified by the Norwegian authorities for your profession. The minimum salary for skilled workers varies depending on the occupation.
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Language Skills:
- While many jobs in Norway require knowledge of Norwegian or English, language skills may not be a requirement for some jobs, especially in international or technical fields.
Application Process
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Step 1: Job Offer & Employer's Role
- You need a job offer from a Norwegian employer. Your employer will submit a job offer and may assist you in the application process.
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Step 2: Apply Online
- Once you have the job offer, you can apply for a residence permit online through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website. The online application will guide you through the process, and you will be required to pay a fee (approximately NOK 5,300 for a residence permit).
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Step 3: Biometrics Appointment
- After submitting the online application, you will need to book an appointment at the nearest Norwegian Embassy or Consulate in Bangladesh to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photo).
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Step 4: Application Processing
- After the submission of your documents and biometrics, your application will be processed. The processing time usually takes between 2 to 3 months, but it can vary.
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Step 5: Wait for Decision
- Once the decision is made, you will be notified about whether your application is approved or rejected.
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Step 6: Residence Permit and Work Visa
- If approved, you will receive a residence permit that allows you to live and work in Norway. You can then travel to Norway and start your employment.
Key Points to Remember
- Application Fee: The fee for applying for a work permit can be paid online when submitting the application. Fees are subject to change.
- Processing Time: The processing time for work permit visas can take up to 2-3 months, so apply well in advance.
- Dependents: If you want to bring family members (spouse and children) with you, they may also apply for residence permits based on your work permit.
- Extensions: Work permits are generally granted for 1 to 3 years, but extensions are possible if you continue to meet the conditions.
Useful Links:
- Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) - Official immigration website for work visa and residence permit information.
- Norway Embassy in Bangladesh - For embassy contact details and visa application assistance.