Retention of citizenship

The Act of 10 June 2005 relating to Norwegian Nationality contains the provisions which define Norwegian nationality and describe how Norwegian nationality is acquired. For Norwegians living abroad, it is important to note the following:

A person who acquired Norwegian nationality at birth, but who has not resided in Norway for a total of two years or in Norway and other Nordic countries for a total of seven years shall lose his or her Norwegian nationality upon reaching the age of 22. You may, however, apply to keep your Norwegian citizenship. Such an application must be lodged after the age of 21, but before the age of 22 through the nearest Norwegian foreign service mission.

 

Please note that if you are a second generation Norwegian having been born abroad, it may be more difficult to retain your Norwegian nationality.

Further information concerning Norwegian nationality may be obtained from the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration

 

An application form for retention of Norwegian nationality can be found on the website above. This should be accompanied by:

·        A letter explaining why you want to keep your nationality

·        Norwegian passport. If you have never had a Norwegian passport you have to enclose some other form of identification. 

·        Birth Certificate, which states both the child’s name and both parents’ names.

·        The passport of the parent who is Norwegian.

·        If the father is Norwegian and the mother is not; the parent’s marriage certificate

 

Link to The Act on Norwegian nationality (pdf)

 


Share on your network   |   print