Norway Launches Online Residence Permit Renewals | Who Can Use the New HOT System?

Norway has introduced a new digital service that allows eligible foreign nationals to renew certain residence permits online without visiting a police station. The system, known as HOT (Heldigital Oppmøteløsning), has been rolled out by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) across selected police districts since May 5, 2026.

The online renewal option is available only to applicants who are renewing an existing residence permit from within Norway, hold a valid Norwegian digital identity such as eID or BankID, and live in a police district where the HOT system is available. It complements the existing residence permit application process rather than replacing it.

The service is not available for first-time applicants, people applying from outside Norway, individuals changing residence permit categories, or short-term and ad hoc assignment workers. These applicants must continue using the standard application process through a Norwegian consular post or a Priority Service Centre.

For many Indian professionals, researchers, and students already living in Norway, the new system could make eligible permit renewals faster and more convenient. Before applying, applicants should confirm both their eligibility and local availability through the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).