Newbie for Norway

I everyone. I am new here. I currently live in Seattle but lived in Chicago for a long time.

i am planning to apply for a temporary resident permit in Norway. I am retired and there is so much I want to see in Norway. So I plan to go live there for a year. I found out from my DNA that I am part Norwegian.

Not sure how early to apply for a permit. I am going there in September 2023.

Hi and welcome!


there isn't really a retiree/extended stay visa that would fit the criteria you describe as the Norwegian visas are broken down into three categories:

  • joining a family member such as a spouse who already has residency
  • sponsored by an employer with the purpose of working in Norway
  • student visa for studying at a Norwegian institution 


you can read further on the immigration website here: 


https://udi.no/en/want-to-apply/?c=usa


you can of course avail yourself of the Schengen option and spend 3 months here before returning to the US or another non-Schengen country for three months before coming back here

Well if it turns out I can't get a residence permit, i'll just go for 3 months. I do have my own private health insurance.