How do I get permanent residence in Norway, and does it lead to citizenship?

Permanent residence in Norway generally becomes available after about three years of continuous residence on a qualifying permit, with some bases such as protection taking longer. You need to complete the required Norwegian language and social-studies training and tests, meet an income requirement, have no serious criminal record, and hold a valid permit when the decision is made. Note that study and job-seeker permits do not count towards this period.

Permanent residence does set the stage for citizenship, but they are separate steps. Citizenship by naturalisation usually requires a longer residence period — the standard rule is eight of the last eleven years, with shorter periods for some groups such as spouses of Norwegian citizens — plus oral Norwegian skills and a citizenship and social-studies test.

A helpful point is that Norway has allowed dual citizenship since 1 January 2020, so on its side you need not renounce your existing nationality, though your other country may have its own rules. ACME can help you check whether your years and permits qualify at each stage, and we recommend confirming the current requirements on udi.no.