How to book a Norway Schengen Visa appointment in the UK
Norway is a popular destination for travellers from around the world, offering a diverse range of attractions including rocky fjords, the northern lights and a rich cultural heritage. If you want to visit Norway and embark on this exciting journey, it is advisable to arrange the necessary visa documentation well in advance, including fees and other details from the classic hotel reservation in Norway to the full a full documents listed.
Applying for a Norwegian visa in the UK is a process that requires a number of steps to be completed. These include determining the visa type, filling out an online application form and scheduling an appointment at a visa application centre.
Applying for a Norwegian visa with UDI vs another Schengen country
Applying for a Norwegian Schengen visa involves a somewhat different process and set of requirements to those of other Schengen countries. The use of Norway's UDI online portal for applications and required documents uploads, along with a thorough examination of the itinerary, travel date, pay for certain services, highlights the distinctive aspects of the obtaining a Norway Schengen visa.
It may be of interest to note that the UDI (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration) Norway online portal is currently the main platform for those applying for a Schengen visa to Norway. It is open to UK residence permit holders. This digital system has been designed with the intention of streamlining the application process, allowing applicants the convenient option of filling out the online application form and uploading supporting document requirements before their personal appointment with the visa officer. In contrast to many other countries Schengen area, Norway is use of this centralised online system that could prove to be a more efficient approach to the visa application process. This reflects the country's emphasis on digital solutions in migration processes, unlike other countries in the Schengen area. However, you still need to book your appointment through VFS.
Determine Visa Type
Before you start the Norwegian Schengen visa application process, you must first identify the specific type of visa you require. This could be a tourist visa, work visa, student visa, or a visit visa for a family member. This will help you understand what's next, what you need to submit and what your visa application requires of your visa application. Once you've figured out which visa category you need, head over to the official VFS Global website for Norwegian visa application in the UK to get the process started and set up an account. The website has all the info you need on the different types of visas and the relevant requirements required by the Norwegian embassy, ensuring you are well prepared for the next steps of your visa application, including book an appointment.
Registration stages for Norway visa
The process of applying for a Norway Schengen visa in the UK involves multiple stages, from completing an application online UDI to registering with VFS Global and attending an in-person appointment at a VFS Center. It may already be apparent that the visa entries for other countries in the Schengen area are somewhat distinct. In Norway, the system is somewhat unique.
Initial application online on the UDI website
Visit the official website of the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration and fill in the online applications form.
Pay the submit visa fee when applying online.
Print your out the cover letter, visa application form, and payment receipt.
Sign the printed visa application form.
VFS Global Registration
Once you have completed the initial application on the Norwegian government website, you must register with VFS Global:
Go to the VFS Global website for Norway visa applications in the UK.
Create a new user account now if you haven't already done so.
Select the appropriate visa type (e.g. tourist visa, business, family/friend visit) and log in to your account.
Upload documents and book appointments
Once you've logged in, follow the steps below:
Upload the required submitted documents. You can choose to upload your documents yourself or use the paid document scanning assistance service at the VFS Center.
Select any additional optional visa services needed.
Book an appointment at your preferred VFS Global Centre location in London, Manchester or Edinburgh.
Final review and preparation
Before apply for a visa, applicants should review all information provided, services selected, confirm their choice of trip and visa fee. It is crucial to prepare complete documentation including original documents (passport, residence permit, etc) and a printed checklist attached to the application.
The minimum processing time is 15 days from receipt of your passport by the Norwegian Embassy in London, additional time is required for applications made in Manchester or Edinburgh. In the experience of Reddit users, as a general rule these times are always longer, you should take this into account when choosing your departure date, so as not to end up in a situation like some Reddit users:
"We both successfully submitted our visa applications along with all required documents in-person at VFS office London on May 11, 2023. However, it is now 32 calendar days (which is 22 working days), and we have not received our results yet. And our flight is tomorrow morning, June 13, 2023."
Applicants should arrive at the visa application centre 15 minutes before the appointment time, bringing their passport, residence permit, application form and supporting documents.
Key Takeaways
The process of enrolling, preparing and submitting an application for a Norwegian Schengen visas in the UK is specialised by its digital approach and comprehensive requirements.
Although the process is optimised through the UDI online portal, applicants should be aware of possible delays and variability in processing times. The minimum processing time reported by the embassy of 15 days can often be extended, especially for applications outside of London.
There are a number of certain important steps that will enable you to obtain a favourable result. These special requirements are a testament to Norway's commitment to efficient and hassle-free visa processing. Advanced technology and the highest standards of the Schengen area is entry requirements work seamlessly here.
The earlier you apply, the better. Ideally, you should submit your documents much earlier than 15 days before travelling, as stated on the embassy website, but you can submit them up to 6 months in advance.
Make sure you have all the appropriate documents, including a valid passport, visa application, application fee and any other supporting materials.
Then it will be time for a personal appointment at the VFS Global centre of your choice. Come on time, don't miss anything!
