Overview
Norway is a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country, so Norwegian passport holders do not need a visa for tourist or business trips to the United States of up to 90 days — they travel on an approved ESTA instead. The U.S. Embassy in Oslo handles all other visa categories for Norwegian residents: student (F-1), exchange visitor (J-1), work, and immigrant visas for family reunification or employment. International residents of Norway who are not Norwegian nationals must apply for the appropriate U.S. visa at the embassy. The embassy also serves U.S. citizens in Norway through its American Citizen Services unit.
Visa Services
As Norway is a member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), the embassy does not process tourist or business visas for Norwegian citizens. It handles all other visa categories, including student (F-1), work, and all immigrant visas for residents of Norway. The consular section serves a diverse international community.
Consular Services
The American Citizen Services (ACS) unit provides a full range of services to U.S. citizens in Norway. This includes passport renewals, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, and notarial acts. The ACS unit is a key resource for the American community, which includes many professionals in the energy sector.
Trade & Export Support
The U.S. Commercial Service promotes U.S. exports to Norway, focusing on sectors like defense equipment, energy technology (including oil and gas and renewables), and aerospace. It helps U.S. companies navigate the Norwegian market and participate in major projects.
Investment Opportunities
The embassy facilitates two-way investment. Through SelectUSA, it encourages Norwegian companies and the sovereign wealth fund to invest in the United States. It also supports U.S. firms investing in Norway, particularly in the energy and technology sectors.
Business Support
The embassy's Economic Section analyzes the Norwegian economy, including its massive sovereign wealth fund. It advocates for U.S. business interests and works with the Norwegian government on issues of trade, investment, and energy policy.
Cultural & Educational Programs
The Public Affairs section manages cultural and educational programs that strengthen the U.S.-Norwegian relationship. It oversees the prestigious Fulbright program and supports exchanges and events that highlight shared history, democratic values, and a commitment to international cooperation.
Appointment Information
Appointments are mandatory for all routine consular services, including visa interviews and ACS. All appointments must be scheduled online through the embassy's website. Applicants should plan ahead, especially for non-VWP visa categories.
Special Notes
The embassy moved to a new, state-of-the-art, and highly secure compound in 2017. It is located outside the city center and visitors are subject to strict security screening. All electronic devices are prohibited.