Residence permit for vocational training (trainees)
For young people coming to Norway for time-limited vocational or practical training.
The Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) is a Norwegian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NOK 6,300) and processing time (~1-3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) is for
For young people coming to Norway for time-limited vocational or practical training.
Trainee time does not count towards permanent residence.
Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) - eligibility criteria
- Aged within the scheme's limits (typically 18-30)
- A concrete training plan and host employer/placement
- Training adds to existing education/experience
- Means to support yourself during the training
Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) (Norway) is ~NOK 6,300, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at UDI (Norway).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside Norway |
| Length of stay | Up to 2 years |
| Work rights | Training-related work only with the host employer |
| Study rights | Training programme as specified |
| Government fee | ~NOK 6,300 |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | Trainee time does not count towards permanent residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Trainee time does not count towards permanent residence.
Many applicants also compare Skilled Worker · Residence permit for skilled workers, Seasonal Work · Residence permit for seasonal work, Working Holiday · Working Holiday residence permit. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Norwegian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) pitfalls we fix
Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) cost?
The Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) government fee is ~NOK 6,300. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at UDI (Norway) before applying.
How long does the Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Residence permit for vocational training (trainees) lead to permanent residence?
Trainee time does not count towards permanent residence.
Can I work on the Residence permit for vocational training (trainees)?
Work rights: Training-related work only with the host employer.
Who can apply for the Residence permit for vocational training (trainees)?
For young people coming to Norway for time-limited vocational or practical training.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Norway government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- UDI (Norway) - official Norway immigration authority