Who Is Eligible for a UK Post-Study Work Visa?

In Norway, you can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (also known as a Job Seeker Visa), which allows international students who have completed a higher education degree in Norway to stay in the country for up to 1 year to look for work. If you find a job that meets the criteria, you can then apply for a work permit to continue living and working in Norway.

Here’s how you can get a post-study work visa in Norway:

Eligibility Criteria

1. Completed a Recognized Higher Education Degree:

o You must have completed a higher education degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) from a Norwegian educational institution.

o The degree must be a recognized qualification that is eligible for residence permits for students in Norway.

2. Valid Student Residence Permit:

o You must have held a valid student residence permit while you were studying in Norway.

o Your student residence permit must be valid when you apply for the job-seeking visa.

3. Application Timeframe:

o You must apply for the job-seeking visa within 3 months of completing your degree in Norway.

4. Proof of Financial Support:

o You need to show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself while looking for a job in Norway. The amount of financial support required can vary, but typically, you must demonstrate that you can cover your living expenses (around NOK 128,000 per year or NOK 10,700 per month).

Application Process

1. Gather Necessary Documents:

o Proof of degree completion (such as your diploma or certificate).

o A copy of your valid student residence permit.

o Proof of sufficient financial support for at least one year.

o Passport-sized photographs and valid passport.

o Documentation showing you’ve completed your education in Norway (official transcripts or certificates).

2. Apply Online:

o You can submit your application for the Job Seeker Visa via the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website.

o Complete the online application form, upload the required documents, and pay any applicable application fees.

3. Processing Time:

o The processing time for a Post-Study Work Visa typically takes a few weeks, but you should apply as soon as possible after completing your studies.

4. Stay Duration:

o If granted, the job-seeking visa is valid for up to 1 year.

o During this period, you are allowed to stay in Norway to look for a job that matches your qualifications.

After Finding a Job

• If you find a job during the validity of your Post-Study Work Visa, you can apply for a work permit or residence permit to continue living and working in Norway.

• The job must typically match your qualifications and meet the salary requirements for a work permit.

Important Notes

• The job-seeking visa is a temporary visa to allow you time to find work. You cannot start working in any job during this time; it’s specifically for job-seeking purposes.

• If you find work that meets the requirements, you can then apply to switch to a work visa without having to leave Norway.

This visa can be a great way for international students to transition into the Norwegian job market after graduation!