Norway to raise salary thresholds for work permits from September 2025

Starting September 1, 2025, Norway will increase the salary thresholds for foreigners applying for work permits, aligning the benchmarks with the country’s overall wage growth.

As reported by Schengen.News, the adjustments are meant to ensure that foreign workers receive wages comparable to Norwegian standards.

New thresholds: NOK 522,600 and NOK 599,200

The new salary requirements are:

For roles requiring a bachelor’s degree: NOK 522,600 annually (approx. €45,190) — up from NOK 469,366 (€40,587).

For jobs requiring a master’s degree: NOK 599,200 annually (approx. €51,802) — up from NOK 513,100 (€44,358).

“Annual adjustments have not kept up with general wage increases. That’s why we are implementing significant changes,” the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) stated.

Foreigners employed in sectors regulated by collective agreements must be paid at least the wage level specified in those agreements.

Exceptions allowed with strong documentation

While the new rules are stricter, exceptions can apply. The UDI clarified that applicants may still qualify with a lower salary, if they can provide solid proof that such wages are normal for their role and region.

“We may accept a lower salary if you can document that this is standard for your occupation in the area,” UDI noted.

However, such documentation must be substantial and clearly demonstrate industry norms in the location of employment.

Previous reforms: Family reunification income requirement already raised

Earlier in February 2025, Norway increased the minimum income requirement for family reunification to NOK 400,000 (€34,116), up from NOK 335,000 (€28,572).

Together, these measures form part of a wider strategy to regulate labor migration, ensure fair pay for all workers, and maintain integrity in the permit system.