Am I allowed to become a Norwegian citizen?
Yes, if you meet the requirements UDI sets under the Citizenship Act. The main rule is 8 of the last 11 years with a residence permit in Norway. If you are married to a Norwegian citizen, the requirement is reduced: 7 years of residence and marriage combined, with at least 3 years of actual residence. You must pass oral Norwegian at level B1 (A2 for some groups, such as those over 55) and the citizenship test, and usually have had sufficient own income in the last year. You must be over 18 with a clarified identity. Dual citizenship has been allowed since 1 January 2020. (A 2026 proposal for 8 continuous years is not adopted.)
📋 The rules
- Main rule: 8 of the last 11 years of residence
- Married to a Norwegian: 7 years combined, at least 3 years residence
- Oral Norwegian level B1 (A2 for some)
- Passed the citizenship test and income requirement
- Dual citizenship allowed since 2020
🔓 Exceptions
- Nordic citizens can become citizens by notification with shorter residence (about 2 years)
- Children under 18 can be included in a parent's application with shorter requirements
- Language and test requirements can be waived for Norwegian schooling or health reasons
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Citizenship granted on the basis of false information or withheld facts can be revoked by the authorities.
📎 Official sources
❓ Frequently asked
How long must I have lived in Norway?
The main rule is 8 of the last 11 years with a residence permit. Married to a Norwegian citizen, the requirement can be shorter.
Must I know Norwegian?
Yes. You must pass oral Norwegian at level B1, or A2 for some groups such as those over 55.
Can I hold two citizenships?
Yes. Dual citizenship has been allowed in Norway since 1 January 2020.
What is the requirement for spouses?
7 years of residence and marriage combined, with at least 3 years of actual residence in Norway.
Are there special rules for Nordic citizens?
Yes. Nordic citizens can become citizens by notification with shorter residence, about 2 years.
🔎 Common searches
What people search to land here:
- “can I become a norwegian citizen”
- “residence 8 of 11 years”
- “oral norwegian b1 citizenship”
- “dual citizenship 2020”
- “citizenship spouse 7 years”
- “citizenship test requirement”