Q&A: What's Norway's stricter language requirement for permanent residency?
announced
changes to the language requirements for foreigners seeking permanent residence permits. While the previous requirement for spoken proficiency at A1 level, applicants must now demonstrate A2-level or higher.
'Foreigners who want a permanent residence permit in Norway should have a certain level of oral Norwegian. Being able to speak and understand the Norwegian language is an important prerequisite for being able to participate in education and work', said Minister of Justice and Public Security Astri Aas-Hansen (Labour Party).
The language levels refer to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). At level A2, individuals can understand simple everyday language, express themselves on personal and basic topics such as family, and manage simple conversations.
However, the new requirements include exemptions for those with special circumstances related to health or personal reasons. This particularly applies to adult immigrants with limited or no formal education, elderly people, and individuals with low literacy skills.
In addition, the requirements for language and social studies tests will be moved from the Integration Act to the Immigration Act. This could indicate a change to the streamline process, reducing the need for assessments by local municipalities. In 2024, 10,554 individuals
were granted permanent residency in Norway
.
To clarify what the new rules mean in practice,
The Local
contacted the Norwegian Ministry of Justice and Public Security to help us answer some of the frequently asked questions from applicants:
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What exactly has changed regarding Norwegian language requirements?
Under the new rules, applicants for permanent residency must pass an oral Norwegian test at level A2 or higher, replacing the previous A1 requirement.
What about the social studies (samfunnskunnskap) requirement?
Applicants are still required to pass the social studies test, but they are no longer obligated to submit documentation of having completed a course. The legislation mandates a passed test taken in a language the applicant understands.
Who does this affect?
The changes apply to people seeking permanent residence aged 18–67, including outside‑EU/EEA. The 18-year age limit is calculated based on the time of application and the 67-year age limit is calculated from the time of the decision (the time the application is decided).
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When do these new rules take effect?
The changes were officially announced June 26th, 2025, and apply to applications for a permanent residence permit submitted after September 1st 2025.
Are there any exceptions?
Yes. Applicants can be exempt from the spoken Norwegian test if they can document special health conditions or personal circumstances beyond their control that make it impossible to pass the A2-level test. This applies especially to adult immigrants with little or no schooling, limited reading and writing skills, or older age. People with learning difficulties, cognitive challenges, or mental health conditions such as neurological disorders, may also qualify for an exemption.
Are there still written or reading exams required?
No. The requirements to obtain a permanent residence permit are to pass an oral Norwegian language test at level A2 and to pass the social studies test.
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