How do you get a residence card?

• Everyone who holds a residence permit in Norway and who is not an EU/EEA national must have such a card. If you have a residence permit, please go to "Received an answer" for information about how to obtain a residence card.
• The card is valid for the same period as your residence permit. Once your residence permit expires, you must apply for a new residence permit in order to be issued a new residence card.
• If you have a permanent residence permit, the card is valid for two years. If you have permanent right of residence, the card is valid for ten years. You must order a new card in plenty of time before the old card expires.
• If you lose your residence card, or if it is stolen or damaged, you must order a new card.
• If you lose your reisidence card while abroad, you must contact a Norwegian embassy or consulate (external website) for information about how to proceed. 

Photo requirements for the residence card

The police will take a new photo of you for the card. Please see our information about the photo requirements

Have you not received your residence card?

If you have not received your residence card by post or if you have any questions about residence cards, you must contact the local police office where you applied for a residence card. (external website)

What can you use the residence card for?

• The residence card proves that you have been granted a residence permit in Norway.
• You must present the card in the event of an inspection. If you do not have it with you, you may be asked to retrieve it. 
• Unless otherwise stated on the card, it also proves that you are entitled to travel freely in the Schengen area for up to 90 days during a period of 180 days. You should therefore bring the card with you when you travel abroad. You must always bring your passport as well. 

Among other things, the card contains your photo, signature and fingerprints.