Currently, many non-EU citizens do not need a visa to visit Europe. However, this will change starting in late 2022. Those non-EU citizens who wish to travel to Norway will need an ETIAS visa waiver for Norway.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System or ETIAS is a visa waiver program that is meant to strengthen the borders of the Schengen Zone. This is done by keeping a record of non-EU visitors who wish to enter and travel about Norway, as well as the entirety of the Schengen Zone.
Not to be confused with a travel visa, the ETIAS screens all applicants prior to their arrival in Norway. Once visitors are approved, they are able to move freely throughout the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days.
This is much like the allowance that was in place before. However, now there’s an added security measure. It is important to know that this is the same for all European countries found within the Schengen Area, not just for Norway.
Norway, the EU, and the Schengen Area
Norway is a Scandinavian country in Northern Europe that is surrounded by mountains and glaciers. While Norway is integrated into the Schengen Agreement is not actually a European Union member. The country’s currency is the Norwegian krone and official language is Norwegian.
Norway is still considered part of the Schengen Zone and currently allows for non-EU visitors to enter the country visa-free. However, as of the end of 2022 most non-EU tourists will need a Norwegian ETIAS.
There will still be no hard borders within the Schengen Area. The only change with the ETIAS is that tourists wishing to come into the EU will go through the system. This pre-check will ensure the travellers pose no threat and are safe to enter the zone.
Once the area is entered, a visitor can travel around without hard borders or additional passport controls. As a part of the Schengen Zone, tourists can travel around Norway and to any of the other Schengen countries.
Who needs an ETIAS to travel to Norway?
The ETIAS Norway allows people to visit the nation and the countries found within the Schengen zone for tourist, business, medical, and transit reasons. Currently, there are over 60 countries that are required to apply for an ETIAS if they wish to travel around Europe.
Once the system is in place, citizens of non-EU countries will have to apply for ETIAS before they travel to Norway or any of the other Schengen countries. Even those who are currently allowed to visit Europe visa-free will need an ETIAS beginning in late 2022.
Passport and document requirements for Norwegian ETIAS
The requirements to apply for a Norwegian ETIAS are as follows:
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A valid passport
- Nationality
- Number
- Issue and expiry dates
- Education and work experience
- Brief medical history
- Previous visits to war zones (if any)
- Criminal record (if applicable)
- Prior countries one was deported or rejected from (if any)
Minors are required to have guardians complete an application for them. Those with family members who are EU citizens will have to submit proof of relationship, residence card, and/or other background details.
How can I apply for a Norwegian ETIAS?
The ETIAS application is simple and affordable. The application can be accessed from home. Meaning there is no time wasted making appointments or waiting in long lines at a local embassy or consulate.
Once the ETIAS requirements for Norway are met, the application process begins. This takes about 10 minutes and is done completely online. Expect to answer the following to complete the request:
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Biometric information
- First and last names
- Last name at birth
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Gender
- Current address
- Email address and phone number
- Citizenship
- The name of the first EU country that will be visited
- Payment for the application fee via credit or debit card
Travel information about Norway
One of Norway’s most popular attractions is the land. Glaciers, green spaces, the northern lights, and tons of coasts, there is plenty to see. Norway is known for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, skiing, and more.
Oslo is the country’s capital city that is full of museums and colourful buildings. There, visitors can learn about art or Viking history. The city has plenty of parks and a relaxing waterside.
Seafood lovers will be glad to hear that the best cuisine in the country is fresh, local cod and salmon. Those willing to try new dishes can taste reindeer or lingonberries which are two of Norway’s famous ingredients.