The Norway Visa Application Centre exclusively offers short-stay Schengen visas for US green card holders. It’s essential to have a well-defined purpose for your visit to Norway before initiating your Schengen visa application. When applying for your Schengen visa, choose the consulate or a designated visa application center situated in your ultimate Schengen destination.
The primary objective of this article is to furnish you with comprehensive information and support for applying for a Schengen Visa to access Norway, particularly tailored to US green card holders. We are equipped with all the pertinent details and valuable insights needed to streamline your Norway visa application process, whether you intend to travel for leisure, business endeavors, or any other specific reason.
For further information, or in case you encounter challenges during the visa application process, please consider seeking visa consultation services from us. We are ready to assist you in obtaining your visa smoothly and efficiently.
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Do US citizen need a Schengen visa to visit Norway?
US citizens are not required to obtain a Schengen visa for visits to Norway or any other Schengen Area country for various purposes like vacations, business trips, short-term studies, sporting or cultural events, or brief medical treatments. However, US citizens are subject to a three-month (90-day) stay limit in a six-month period (180 days) in these countries.
The Schengen Area Free Movement Agreement underscores the significance of your nationality (the country that issues your passport) over your country of residence. Consequently, if your country lacks a free movement agreement, securing a Norway Schengen visa is mandatory before your departure.
US citizens should exercise caution not to exceed the 90-day period to evade fines, penalties, or jeopardizing their ability to apply for additional Schengen visas.
Is a Norway Schengen Visa mandatory for individuals holding US Green Cards?
US passport holders can generally enter Norway, Europe, and the Schengen Area without needing a visa. However, it’s essential to note that not all US passport holders enjoy this privilege.
On the other hand, green card holders, as nationals of third countries, are typically required to obtain a Schengen visa to visit Europe. To travel to Norway, a US green card holder must apply for a Norway Schengen visa. Without a Schengen visa, visiting Norway or any other Schengen European country is not possible. When applying for the Norway Schengen visa, you can choose the type that aligns with the duration of your stay or the specific Schengen Zone countries you plan to visit.
Who can Apply for Norway Schengen visa in United States for Green card holders?
You can apply for a Norway Schengen visa from the US if:
- You are a US citizen and planning to visit Norway for a short stay.
- You are a US green card holder (permanent resident) and want to visit Norway or any other Schengen country for a short stay.
- You are a citizen of a country that has a visa waiver agreement with the Schengen Area and you are residing in the US with a valid US visa (e.g., B1/B2, F1, H1B, etc.). In this case, you can apply for a Norway Schengen visa from the US if your country is on the list of visa-exempt countries for short stays in the Schengen Area.
How can US green card holders apply for a Norway Schengen visa?
- Determine the Appropriate Visa Type for Your Norway Visit: The initial step is to identify the specific type of Norway visa that matches the purpose of your visit. Understand the necessary documents required for your visa application and ensure strict adherence to the regulations associated with your chosen visa category.
- Complete the Norway application: Begin by downloading the visa in Norway application form. Thoroughly fill out the form, and once it’s completed, print it. You’ll need to submit this form at the Visa Application Centre.
- Schedule a Norway Visa Appointment: After successfully filling out your visa application form, the next step is to book an appointment at the Visa Application Centre.
- Attend Your Reserved Visa Appointment: On the scheduled date, you will be required to personally submit your fully completed Norway visa application form at the Visa Application Centre.
- Pay Your Norway Visa Application Fees: After submitting your visa application, you will be required to pay the necessary Norway visa application fees.
- Monitor Your Norway Visa Application: To keep track of your Norway visa application’s progress, you can use the Reference Number found on the invoice or receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre. This will allow you to check the status of your application online.
For US Green Card holders, what are the Schengen visa requirements for travel to Norway?
Before applying for a Norway Schengen visa in the United States as a green card holder, you must ensure that you have gathered all the necessary documents. These documents are crucial for your Norway Schengen visa application.
Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Norway Schengen Visa Application Form:
Download and fill out the Norway Schengen visa application form. Make sure it’s complete and accurate.
2. Passport:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen area. It should also have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
3. Residence Permit or Visa for the U.S.:
If you are a U.S. green card holder, you should provide a copy of your green card. You’ll also need to submit proof of legal residence in the U.S., such as a valid long-term U.S. visa, your I-20 form (if applicable), or other relevant documents.
4. Two Passport Photos:
Provide recent passport-sized photos that meet Schengen visa photo requirements.
5. Travel Itinerary:
This should include flight reservations or a flight itinerary, indicating your entry and exit dates from the Schengen area.
6. Travel Insurance:
Purchase travel insurance that covers at least €30,000 (or $50,000) in medical expenses and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen area.
7. Proof of Accommodation:
Provide documents confirming your accommodation arrangements in Finland, such as hotel reservations or a letter of invitation from your host.
8. Financial Means:
Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the Schengen area. You should show bank statements for the last three months or other financial documents.
9. Employment or Student Documents:
Depending on your status, you’ll need to submit relevant documents. This may include an employment letter, pay stubs, or proof of student status.
10. Travel Purpose:
Clearly state the purpose of your visit and provide supporting documents. This could include an invitation letter, conference registration, or other relevant materials.
11. Proof of Ties to the U.S.:
Show ties to the U.S. that indicate your intention to return, such as a letter from your employer or proof of property ownership.
12. Cover Letter:
Draft a cover letter outlining the purpose of your trip, travel itinerary, and other relevant information.
Please ensure that you have all the necessary documents in the correct format and that you meet the specific requirements for your visa type and travel purpose. It’s advisable to double-check with the Norway Visa Application Centre or the consulate where you’ll be applying to confirm the latest requirements and procedures.
Documents proving the journey’s purpose
To prove the purpose of your journey when applying for a Norway Schengen visa as a U.S. green card holder, you’ll need specific documents based on the purpose of your trip.
Here are some common purposes and the related documents you may require:
1. Tourism or Vacation:
- Hotel reservations or accommodation confirmation.
- Travel itinerary with planned activities.
- Travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation.
- Round-trip flight reservations or itinerary.
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
2. Business Trip:
- An invitation letter from the company or host.
- Proof of your business activities and meetings.
- A letter from your employer stating the purpose of your trip and your employment status.
- Travel itinerary.
3. Visiting Family or Friends:
- An invitation letter from your host in Norway.
- A copy of their residence permit or identity documents.
- Proof of your relationship with the host.
- Travel itinerary.
4. Education or Study:
- Letter of acceptance from a Norwegian educational institution.
- Proof of tuition payment or scholarship.
- Travel itinerary.
- Bank statements or financial documents to show you can cover your expenses.
5. Medical Treatment:
- A medical certificate from a Norwegian healthcare provider.
- Proof of medical appointments or treatment schedule.
- Travel insurance covering medical costs.
6. Cultural or Sports Event Participation:
- Documentation related to the event, such as a confirmation of participation.
- Travel itinerary.
- Proof of sufficient funds.
7. Official Government Visit:
- An official invitation from the Norwegian government or organization.
- Letter from the U.S. government or agency explaining the purpose of your visit.
- Travel itinerary.
These are general guidelines, and the specific documents required may vary based on your individual circumstances. Always check with the Visa Norway application Centre or consulate where you’ll be applying for the most up-to-date and accurate information related to your specific purpose of travel.
Records attesting to the circumstances of the applicant
When applying for a Norway Schengen visa as a U.S. green card holder, you’ll need to provide records and documents attesting to your personal circumstances. These documents help the authorities assess your eligibility and intentions.
Here are some common records and documents that may be required:
1. Passport and Previous Visas:
- A valid passport with at least three months of validity beyond your intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Copies of previous Schengen visas, if applicable.
2. Proof of Residence in the U.S.:
- Copy of your U.S. permanent resident card (green card).
- If you hold a long-term U.S. visa, provide a copy of that visa.
3. Proof of Marital Status:
- Marriage certificate (if married).
- Proof of civil partnership or domestic relationship (if applicable).
4. Proof of Family Ties:
- Documents that show your connection to family members residing in your home country or the U.S.
5. Employment Records:
- Employment letter from your U.S. employer, including details on your position, salary, and employment status.
- Recent pay stubs or bank statements showing regular income.
6. Financial Documents:
- Bank statements for the last three months to demonstrate your financial stability.
- Income tax returns.
- Proof of any other financial assets or investments.
7. Travel Itinerary:
- A detailed itinerary of your planned trip, including dates, destinations, and accommodations.
8. Travel Insurance:
- Travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of €30,000 or the equivalent in USD.
9. Invitation Letter (if applicable):
- An invitation letter from your host in Norway, if you are visiting friends or family.
10. Letter of Acceptance (if a Student):
- If you are traveling for study purposes, a letter of acceptance from the Norwegian educational institution.
11. Medical Records (if Applicable):
- Medical records and certificates for health treatments or procedures.
12. Criminal Record (if Applicable):
- Documents demonstrating your criminal record, if requested.
13. Additional Supporting Documents:
- Any other documents relevant to your personal circumstances and the purpose of your trip.
It’s important to note that the specific documents required may vary depending on your individual situation and the type of visa you are applying for. Always check with the Norway Visa Application Centre or consulate where you plan to apply to ensure you provide the necessary documents and meet their specific requirements.
Proof of employment
When applying for a Norway Schengen visa as a U.S. green card holder, you will typically need to provide proof of your employment to demonstrate your ties to your home country and your ability to support your trip.
Here are some documents that can serve as proof of employment:
1. Employment Letter:
- A formal letter from your U.S. employer that includes the following information:
- Your job title and role within the company.
- Your employment start date.
- Your current salary and employment status (e.g., full-time, part-time).
- Contact information for the employer, including an address and phone number.
2. Pay Stubs:
Recent pay stubs that show your regular income. These documents can help verify your current employment status and income.
3. Income Tax Returns:
Copies of your income tax returns from the previous year. This can provide evidence of your financial stability and compliance with tax regulations.
4. Bank Statements:
Bank statements from the last three months can demonstrate your financial capacity to fund your trip. They should show regular salary deposits and a healthy financial history.
5. Employee ID:
A copy of your employee identification card or badge can help confirm your affiliation with your employer.
6. Leave of Absence Letter (if applicable):
If you are taking a leave of absence from work to travel, you may need a letter from your employer specifying the approved duration and purpose of your leave.
7. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Employer (if applicable):
Some employers issue a No Objection Certificate, which states that your employer has no objection to your travel plans and leave of absence.
It’s essential to present accurate and up-to-date documents to support your visa application. The purpose of these employment-related documents is to demonstrate that you have strong ties to your home country and that you intend to return after your trip to Norway.
Please note that specific requirements and accepted documents may vary depending on the Norwegian consulate where you submit your visa application, so it’s advisable to verify the exact requirements with the consulate or visa application center where you plan to apply.
When applying for a Norway Schengen visa for a minor (a child under the age of 18), you’ll need to provide several specific documents in addition to the standard visa application requirements. These documents help establish the minor’s identity, travel purpose, and demonstrate the legal guardians’ consent.
Here’s a list of documents for minors:
1. Visa Application Form:
A completed Schengen visa application form signed by both parents or legal guardians.
2. Birth Certificate:
The minor’s original birth certificate and a copy. The birth certificate helps confirm the minor’s identity and relationship to the parents or legal guardians.
3. Passport:
The minor’s valid passport, with at least two blank pages and a validity period that extends at least three months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen area.
4. Passport Photos:
Recent passport-sized photos of the minor, adhering to Schengen visa photo requirements.
5. No Objection Letter:
A notarized letter of consent signed by both parents or legal guardians, permitting the minor to travel to the Schengen area. This letter should specify the purpose, duration, and details of the trip.
6. Parental Identification:
Copies of the passports or ID cards of both parents or legal guardians.
7. Legal Guardianship Documents:
If only one parent has legal custody of the minor or if the minor is traveling with a legal guardian, you should provide relevant legal documents proving custody or guardianship.
8. Proof of Parent’s or Legal Guardian’s Financial Means:
Documents, such as bank statements or pay stubs, to prove that the parent or legal guardian can financially support the minor’s trip.
9. Travel Itinerary:
A detailed itinerary of the minor’s travel plans, including flight reservations, accommodation bookings, and an outline of activities.
10. Medical Insurance:
Proof of valid travel medical insurance covering the minor’s entire stay in the Schengen area, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
11. Educational Proof (if applicable):
If the minor is traveling during the school year, provide a letter from the school approving the absence.
12. Additional Documentation:
Depending on the specific circumstances, the consulate may request additional documents.
Remember that all documents should be in English or Norwegian. If any documents are in a language other than these, they should be accompanied by an official translation.
Ensure that all required documents are notarized, legalized, or officially translated if needed. It’s advisable to check with the Norwegian consulate or visa application center for any specific requirements or updates related to minors’ visa applications, as requirements can vary between consulates.
Do citizens of the United States need a visa to enter Norway?
For U.S. citizens, traveling to Norway is relatively straightforward. If you plan to visit Norway for tourism, business, short-term studies, cultural or sporting events, or medical treatment, you don’t need a visa, as long as your stay does not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
However, if you intend to live, study, or work in Norway for an extended period, you’ll need to apply for a National (D) Visa.
Starting in 2024, there’s an additional requirement for U.S. citizens who wish to visit Norway or any other Schengen area country. You’ll be required to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before your trip. ETIAS is an electronic travel permit designed for travelers from visa-exempt countries, allowing them to visit Schengen countries without a traditional visa application. This permit will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
What are the Norway Schengen Visa Types for the US Green Card Holders?
Check out for different types of Norway Schengen Visa here:
- Norway Tourist Visa: You can apply for tourist visa for recreation, leisure and sightseeing.
- Norway Business Visa: If you are planning to visit Norway on a formal, business-related trip, then you need to apply for business visa.
- Invitation letter:
- Proof of employment
- Norway Transit Visa: You need Norway transit visa if you are stopping in one of Norway’s airports for a short time.
- Norway Visitor Visa: You need visitor visa, if your relatives or friends who is living in Norway.
- Norway Diplomat visa: for official visits by government officials or national groups.
- Norway Medical visa: If you are looking out for surgery or medical treatment in Norway,
- Norway visa for Sports, Film Crew: If you are planning to visit Norway for cultural, sports activities as participant or audience, then you need this type of visa.
- Norway Student Visa: Enrolling in a university in Norway. Then you need to obtain a student visa or study visa.
- Norway Spouse Visa: If you planned to join your spouse who either is a citizen or has a work permit for Norway.
Where should the US green card holders apply for a Schengen visa to enter Norway?
To initiate the Norway visa application procedure, you can visit the nearest Norwegian Embassy or Mission. However, it’s important to note that VFS Global, the authorized and designated visa application center, handles the issuance of Norway Schengen visas on behalf of the Norwegian consulate or embassy.
Where can people with a green card in the US make an appointment to get a visa for Norway?
VFS Global plays a crucial role in guiding visa applicants through each stage of the Norway visa application process by working in partnership with various governments worldwide. To schedule a Norway Schengen visa appointment, you must make an online booking on the official website of the nearest VFS branch. As mentioned earlier, there are a total of 7 VFS Visa Application Centers available for you to submit the necessary documents and your Norway visa application.
How long does it take to get a Schengen visa for Norway in the United States?
The processing of your visa application typically takes about 15 working days, although this duration may be extended if your application is incomplete or requires further examination. The Consulate General of Norway in New York or Los Angeles may request additional documentation, information, or even an interview, which could prolong the processing time.
In accordance with Article 23 of the Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council Establishing a Community Code on Visas, the relevant Consular authority has the authority to extend the evaluation period for your Norway visa application by up to 30 calendar days. In certain situations where extra documentation or information is necessary, the review period for your visa application may be extended to a maximum of 45 working days.
It’s essential to be meticulous when filling out your visa application to avoid delays or potential visa denials resulting from inaccuracies or mistakes.
What happens at the Visa Application Centre on your Norway visa appointment day?
On the day of your visa appointment at the VFS visa application center, here are the steps you need to follow:
- You must visit the VFS Visa Application Center in person. You cannot send someone else on your behalf.
- Punctuality is crucial. Arrive at the center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled visa appointment time.
- Children under 18 years of age can enter the VFS Visa Application Center with one parent or guardian.
- Ensure that you have all your necessary documents with you, without missing any.
- If, for any reason, you miss your appointment on the scheduled day, you can reschedule it within 24 hours of the original appointment date.
- You will be required to submit your fingerprints and a photograph at the visa application center, which is known as biometric information collection. The processing of your visa application cannot proceed without this biometric information.
- During biometric data collection, your facial and fingerprint scans will be captured.
- Your digital photograph should display your entire face. You should not wear anything that covers your face for religious or moral reasons. Avoid wearing sunglasses, colored glasses, or a hat.
- If you have applied for a Schengen Visa in the last 59 months, you do not need to submit biometric data.
- Children under 12 years of age are exempt from submitting biometric data.
Flight itinerary for Norway Schengen Visa for US Green Card Holder
A travel itinerary typically details your day-to-day activities and plans for your entire trip. When applying for tourist, business, or short-stay visas, many consulates and visa application centers often require a comprehensive day-by-day travel plan as part of your application.
Creating a trip itinerary involves outlining your travel schedule, including flight bookings, accommodations, activities, and other relevant information. The specific requirements may vary depending on your destination and the purpose of your trip.
If you need assistance in generating a flight itinerary and understanding how to plan a trip for your Finland visa application, you can get more information and guidance on creating a flight itinerary to ensure a quick approval.
Difference between Flight Itinerary and Booking Flight tickets
You are absolutely correct. Flight itinerary and booking flight tickets are distinct documents.
A travel itinerary outlines your day-to-day activities for the entire trip, including accommodation, planned visits, and other schedule details. On the other hand, flight ticket booking documents demonstrate your round-trip flight reservations, which indicate your intended duration of stay in Norway and the Schengen Area.
Purchasing fully paid flight tickets before your visa approval can be risky, as visa denial might result in a loss of funds since refunds are not guaranteed. Instead, you can rely on creating dummy flight tickets, which we can assist you with. After your visa is approved, you can then proceed to purchase and secure your original flight tickets. This approach is more practical and reduces financial risks.
Travel Insurance to Norway Schengen Visa for US Green Card Holders
Travel medical insurance is a crucial requirement for all applicants, including children, when applying for a Norway Schengen visa, and it is a mandatory document for many countries. Only individuals applying under Directive 2004/38/EC and those holding diplomatic or official passports are exempt from this requirement.
The insurance certificate must contain the following information:
- Applicant’s name
- Dates of coverage
- Amount of coverage
- Minimum coverage of €30,000 or $50,000
The insurance should cover the entire duration of your planned stay in the Schengen Area. It’s essential to bring both the original and a copy of your travel insurance policy when submitting your Norway visa application.
Furthermore, there should be no limitations on insurance costs. For detailed information on obtaining suitable travel insurance for your Norway visa, you can refer to the Travel Insurance for Norway Visa guide.
You can obtain the necessary insurance by clicking on the provided link.
Cover letter for Norway Schengen Visa for US Green Card holders
A visa application cover letter is a formal document that you must submit to the Norwegian consulate, embassy, or Visa Application Center. The primary purpose of this cover letter is to provide detailed information about your trip, the purpose of your visit to Norway, your financial situation, and any other pertinent information that can strengthen your Norway visa application.
It’s important to create this cover letter in a professional manner, and it should be included along with the other documents in your Norway visa application. For more detailed guidance on preparing a cover letter for your Norway visa application, you can refer to the Cover Letter for Norway Visa guide.
Know more about cover letter for Norway Schengen visa
How much does a Schengen visa to Norway cost for US Green Card holders?
The cost of a Schengen visa to Norway for U.S. Green Card holders can vary depending on several factors, including your age and the type of visa you’re applying for. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, here are the visa fees for different categories:
- Adults (ages 12 and above): The standard Schengen visa fee is around 80 euros (approximately $95 USD).
- Children (ages 6-11): The visa fee for children in this age group is usually reduced, approximately 40 euros (approximately $48 USD).
- Children under 6: Children under the age of 6 are often exempt from visa fees.
Please note that visa fees may be subject to change, and additional service charges may apply depending on the visa application center or agency you use for the application process. It’s advisable to check the most current visa fees and requirements on the official website of the Norwegian embassy or consulate or through the visa application center where you plan to apply.
Also, keep in mind that the visa fee is typically non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that you meet all the requirements and provide complete and accurate documentation to increase your chances of a successful visa application.
What should I do if I am denied a visa to Norway?
When you receive a Schengen visa application denial for Norway, you will typically be provided with a standard form that communicates the refusal of your visa application and specifies the reasons for the rejection. If you believe that the rejection is unjust or that there were errors in the decision, you have the right to appeal the refusal. Here are the key steps involved in the appeal process:
Submit Your Appeal:
You must submit your appeal to the Norwegian Consulate or Embassy that refused your visa within 15 days of receiving the rejection notice. The appeal must be an original document with your original signature. Appeals are usually not accepted via email; they need to be submitted in person or by mail.
Include Necessary Details:
In your appeal, it’s crucial to provide your complete details, including your full name, contact information, and your application reference number. Be sure to clearly mention the reasons for your Norway Schengen visa refusal and the grounds on which you are appealing.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Review:
Once your appeal is submitted, it will be reviewed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They are responsible for evaluating your appeal within 35 days from the date of receipt.
It’s essential to be thorough and well-prepared when drafting your appeal to provide a strong case for reconsideration. You should address the specific reasons for the visa denial and provide any additional evidence or documentation that supports your case. If the visa refusal was due to incomplete or inaccurate documentation, make sure to rectify these issues in your appeal.
Keep in mind that the appeal process can take time, and there’s no guarantee of success. It’s essential to understand the reasons for your initial visa refusal and take steps to address those issues in your appeal. If you’re not confident in navigating the appeal process on your own, seeking legal counsel or assistance from immigration professionals may be advisable.