Does a criminal conviction affect my eligibility for permanent residence in Norway?

Good conduct is part of the permanent residence assessment. Applicants aged 15 and over generally cannot have been convicted of a criminal offence or been subject to an order for enforced psychiatric treatment or care if they want the permit.

A conviction does not always permanently bar you; depending on the offence and sentence, it may delay when you become eligible rather than block you outright. Because the rules tie the waiting period to the type and severity of the penalty, get individual advice if you have any criminal record before applying.