Different conditions and application procedures for resident permits and family immigration apply to EU/EEA/EFT A nationals, so-called EEA nationals, and nationals of other countries, so-called third-country nationals.
All permits that entitle the holder to stay and work in Norway are called residence permits. Depending on what country you are from, you can be granted a residence permit/right of residence pursuant to one of the following two regulations: the general regulations or the EEA Regulations.
The general regulations
Apply to all foreign nationals. Nationals of EU/EEA/EFTA countries can choose whether they want to apply for a residence permit pursuant to these regulations or to the EEA regulations.
The EEA Regulations
Only apply to nationals of EU/EEA/EFTA states. If you are an employee from Bulgaria or Romania and have not held a permit in Norway in the last 12 months, you must meet the requirements of the transitional rules. The transitional rules contain stricter requirements regarding employment relationships.
Note that right of residence pursuant to the EEA Regulations does not form the basis for a permanent residence permit. Some permits granted pursuant to the general regulations form the basis for a permanent residence permit.
