United States Visa RequirementsFor Norway passport holders
Norwegian passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Norway passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Norway to United States: What You Need to Know
Norway has been part of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991, underpinned by deep NATO alliance ties and one of the largest Norse diaspora communities in the United States (an estimated 4.5 million Norwegian-Americans). States like Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin have strong Norwegian-American cultural identities. Norway and the US cooperate closely on Arctic security and energy policy. Oslo Airport (OSL) is a major hub with direct transatlantic service. Norwegian nationals holding a non-VWP second passport should use their Norwegian passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and Norwegian Air fly nonstop from Oslo (OSL) to New York (JFK/EWR), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Chicago (ORD), and Washington (IAD). United also serves OSL. Finnair, KLM, and Lufthansa offer connections via Helsinki, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt respectively.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is a social obligation in the US and is very different from Norway, where workers receive living wages and tipping is not required: in the US, tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 at bars, and a few dollars for taxis and hotel staff. The Norwegian Krone (NOK) is not accepted in the US; exchange at Oslo Airport or use ATMs on arrival.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. The 90-day limit is firm. Carry proof of your return ticket and accommodation. If visiting Norwegian-American communities in Minnesota or the Dakotas, an invitation letter can be helpful at customs. Tipping culture in the US is very different from Norway: tipping is not optional in the US.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Norwegian citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Norway has been part of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991. Norwegian passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must have an approved ESTA before traveling.
How do Norwegian citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the form, pay $21, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
What nonstop flights operate from Norway to the United States?
SAS flies nonstop from Oslo (OSL) to New York (JFK/EWR), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Chicago (ORD), and Washington (IAD). Norwegian Air has also offered OSL-US routes.
How long can Norwegian citizens stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. The stay cannot be extended under VWP status.
Can Norwegian citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA is for tourism, transit, and business meetings only. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision.
What happens if a Norwegian citizen overstays 90 days in the United States?
Overstaying is a serious violation leading to deportation, VWP ineligibility, and serious difficulties with future US visas.
Is ESTA valid for multiple visits to the US?
Yes. A single ESTA is valid for multiple trips for up to 2 years or until your passport expires.