Residence permit delay — UDI · Norway

Direct answer

Yes. Immigration authorities have legal decision deadlines (typically 3–6 months, sometimes longer for specific permits). After the deadline you can send a formal notice of default and, in many countries, claim a penalty or go to court to force a decision. Write to UDI / politiet — utlendingsforvaltning (23 35 16 00) with the file number and the date of application, ask for the reason and the expected date; if there is no answer, Sivilombudet (22 82 85 00) takes complaints about administrative delay; Fri rettshjelp (Statsforvalteren) / Jussbuss, JURK (statsforvalteren.no) files the court action, free below an income threshold. Meanwhile, ask for the certificate that proves your application is pending — it keeps you lawful.

Call firstUDI / politiet — utlendingsforvaltning

Report toSivilombudet

If that failsFri rettshjelp (Statsforvalteren) / Jussbuss, JURK

🗣️ What to say

"Application [file number] for [permit] submitted on [date]. The legal deadline of [months] expired on [date]. I give you formal notice to decide within [14 days / the legal period]. Please confirm my lawful stay meanwhile and issue a certificate of pending application."

🪜 Step by step

Know the deadlineIt is in the law for each permit type; Fri rettshjelp (Statsforvalteren) / Jussbuss, JURK or a migrant-support organisation tells you the exact one.
Certificate of pending applicationAsk for it in writing — it lets you stay, and often work, while you wait.
Notice of defaultAfter the deadline: a formal letter with the file number. Registered mail or the online portal.
Complain: SivilombudetOmbudsmen handle systemic delays and can push a file.
Court: Fri rettshjelp (Statsforvalteren) / Jussbuss, JURKAn action to compel a decision is usually fast and often ends with the permit being issued before the hearing.

📇 All contacts

UDI / politiet — utlendingsforvaltningResidence permits, citizenshipFor residence and citizenship📞 23 35 16 00 🔗 www.udi.no

SivilombudetComplaints about the administration, freeWhen the administration does not answer or acts unfairly📞 22 82 85 00 🔗 www.sivilombudet.no

Fri rettshjelp (Statsforvalteren) / Jussbuss, JURKLegal aid on low income; free student legal clinicsWhen you cannot afford a lawyer🔗 www.statsforvalteren.no/portal/folk-og-samfunn/fri-rettshjelp

Statsforvalteren (klage) → tingrettenAppeal to the superior body, then courtWithin 3 weeks of the decision🔗 www.statsforvalteren.no

❓ Frequently asked

Can I travel while it is pending?

Risky. Leaving may count as withdrawal in some countries, and re-entry needs a visa or a return document. Ask UDI / politiet — utlendingsforvaltning in writing before booking.

Can I work while waiting?

Depends on the permit type and the country; a renewal usually keeps the existing right, a first application often does not. The certificate states it.

They asked for documents I already sent

Send them again with a covering note listing the dates you sent them before. It is faster than arguing and it documents the delay.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

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