Exterior of the Oslo Opera House, a modern building with a white sloping roof that appears to rise from the water.

Planning a trip to Norway? As a British citizen, you’ll need to be aware of the upcoming ETIAS requirement for travel to this Schengen Area country.

ETIAS in Norway for British citizens will change the way you prepare for your journey. Learn about the eligibility, application process, and exemptions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Keep reading to discover all you need to know about ETIAS before your next Norwegian adventure.

An infographic with the Norwegian flag and details about Norway, including its capital, language, currency, time zone, calling code, airport, and contact information for the British Embassy.

What is an ETIAS?

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is a visa waiver that pre-screens travelers to the Schengen Area. It is required for travelers from countries that are exempted from holding a Schengen visa for stays of 90 days or less in Schengen countries. These include travelers from the United Kingdom.

With ETIAS, European countries are assured that the travelers entering their borders do not pose health or security risks to their citizens and fellow travelers.

Do I need an ETIAS when traveling to Norway?

Yes, British citizens need an ETIAS travel authorization when traveling to Norway.

However, British citizens who meet any of these criteria are exempted from holding an ETIAS:

  • Dual citizens of the UK and Norway.
  • Permanent residents of Norway.
  • British citizens who will be traveling, working, or studying in Norway for over 90 days.

Meanwhile, the following need an ETIAS but are exempted from paying the application fee:

  • Travelers below 18 and above 70 years old
  • Family members of EU citizens
  • Family members of non-EU nationals who have a right to move freely throughout the EU

How do I apply for an ETIAS for Norway?

To apply for an ETIAS for Norway, you must have the following:

  • A valid British passport
  • A working email address
  • A debit or credit card

Here are the steps in applying for an ETIAS:

  1. Visit the official ETIAS application portal using your computer or mobile phone. 
  2. Fill out the relevant information from your passport, such as full name, passport number, date of issue, and expiration date. 
  3. Fill out the required personal information, such as the name of your parents, nationality, contact details, education, and occupation.
  4. Declare the first Schengen country that you will visit.
  5. Declare any health history, criminal record, and history of being refused entry to another country.
  6. Pay the €7 application fee using your credit or debit card. However, you are exempted from the application fee if you have a family member who is a resident of Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.
  7. Wait for your ETIAS travel authorization in your email. Usually, this will take about a few minutes.

Aside from a valid ETIAS, what else do I need to enter Norway?

Aside from a valid ETIAS, the following documents will be asked from you when you enter Norway:

  • A valid British passport with an expiry date of three months after you leave the Schengen Area
  • A hotel booking or proof of your home in Norway
  • A ticket proving that you will leave Norway
  • Proof that you have enough money to stay in the country

Can I apply for an ETIAS even if my passport is about to expire soon?

Yes, you can still apply for an ETIAS even if your passport has less than three months of validity. However, this does not guarantee that the border guards will allow you to enter Norway. It’s best to renew your passport before traveling.

Why is my ETIAS authorization taking so long?

Sometimes, it can take a bit longer to process your ETIAS application. You should expect an email within 96 hours, informing you of whether your application was approved, denied, or if the authorities need more information.

In case you need to submit more information or documents, you will have an extra 10 days to provide it. After that, you’ll know your status within 96 hours.

Sometimes, you’re required to have an interview at the nearest Consulate or online. After the interview, the authorities will decide on your application within 48 hours.

I have a valid ETIAS but I changed my name, gender, or nationality. Can I still use my current authorization?

No, you cannot use your current ETIAS after you’ve changed your name, gender, or nationality.

Your travel authorization must reflect the information on your passport. Make sure to apply for a new ETIAS authorization with your new details before traveling.

What happens if my ETIAS application is denied?

If your ETIAS application is denied, it means that you cannot travel to Norway or any other Schengen Area country.

If your application is rejected, you have the option to appeal. Remember that the authorities of the country that turned down your application will handle the appeal process.

How long is an ETIAS travel authorization valid?

An ETIAS travel authorization will last for three years or until your travel document expires, whichever happens first.

I just finished my Europe trip with a valid ETIAS, and I want to go on another trip. Do I need to apply for another ETIAS?

No, you do not need to apply for an ETIAS for every trip to Europe.

You can come and go as many times as you want for three years or until your passport expires, whichever happens first. However, make sure your stay doesn’t exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
Stay informed about the latest ETIAS news to know what you need before applying. If you’re visiting other European countries aside from Norway, check our country guides to find out what requirements you’ll need at the border.