Norway proposes stricter labor immigration rules amid fraud

The Norwegian government intends to tighten regulations for labor immigrants from non-EEA countries following reports from the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) regarding widespread rule violations. Minister of Labour and Inclusion Kjersti Stenseng stated that the government aims to ensure applicants are qualified for their positions, noting that many cases involve forged educational documents or fictitious job offers.

According to UDI, approximately 10 percent of applications from skilled workers involve fraudulent documentation, such as fake schools or non-existent job offers. To combat this, the government plans to introduce requirements for electronic confirmation of work and assignment offers. Authorities also seek expanded powers to reject applications on general grounds when documentation lacks credibility.

Separately, UDI has adjusted its forecasts for 2026 and 2027. The directorate expects a 30 percent decrease in asylum applications from countries other than Ukraine, projecting 2,100 applicants compared to a previous estimate of 3,000. Conversely, UDI anticipates an increase of approximately 600 cases involving the potential revocation of existing residence permits.