The Seasonal Work Visa program, which enables thousands of foreign workers to come to Norway for employment purposes, has been updated to include new rules for future applicants.

Starting in 2025, changes in the program will impact eligibility, application requirements, and the types of jobs that are included in this scheme, as informed by a news report in Schengen News.

However, the program will only apply to certain categories of workers and requires holders of such visas to spend at least six months outside the country before being eligible to reapply.

Not all types of workers can apply for one. Those in carpentry, painting, and other trades cannot apply for the seasonal work visa, but applicants with roles related to seasonal demand include jobs such as harvesting crops, tree planting, logging operations, and positions in tourism and construction.

Applicants must secure a job with a registered Norwegian company as the first step, and after finding this employment opportunity, they must present proof of their accommodation while staying in Norway.

They must also show evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay and must have health insurance coverage, which is mandatory during their time in Norway.

The application process involves submitting necessary documents through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) or at a local embassy, followed by a biometrics appointment.

Norwegian authorities warn that due to the holiday rush, there could be delays, so applicants should keep in mind that their applications can take longer to be processed. They also advised candidates to start their application as early as possible. Checking documents to ensure that all paperwork is completed can save applicants significant time by avoiding delays.

The Norwegian Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion had previously stated that the country would issue up to 6,000 residence permits for workers, while the number of seasonal workers is also expected to rise, reflecting increasing demand for labor.