Can I immigrate to Norway or Sweden on a student visa?

Hi,

You are right that moving to Sweden and Norway is very similar. Both of these countries are members of the EU. This makes it very easy for nationals from other EU countries to live and work there. However, it also makes it a bit harder for non-EU citizens to get work. It isn't really clear what your plan is for this move. Do you intend to work in one of these countries? Or do you want to study?

Typically for both of these countries you need to have a job offer in hand before arriving. Jobs are usually limited with most requiring specific, special skills. One can apply for a Schengen visa, which is the tourist visa that applies to most of Europe. However, this visa doesn't allow foreigners to work and is only valid for ninety days. Applying for a residence permit may not be as simple and straightforward as it seems. Expats applying for these permits need to have been in the country for a certain amount of time and will have to go for interviews in the country. You can read more about visa requirements in our guide pages on Visas for Sweden and Visas for Norway.

If a non-EU citizen has a valid work permit, their direct family (like a spouse and children) are allowed to apply for a residence permit for the same amount of time.

I think you may want to decide on a more specific plan for this move, as it seems like it would be best to have a job and work visa in place before you leave for either of these countries. Hope this helps! Rianca