Oslo, Norway – Starting February 1, 2025, immigrants in Norway applying for family reunification will need to meet a higher income threshold as part of updated regulations aimed at ensuring economic stability for reunited families. The new policy, announced by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration, has sparked widespread discussions about its potential impact on migrant families.
The government justifies the change as a necessary step to promote financial self-sufficiency among applicants and reduce dependence on state support. However, critics argue that the new income requirement may place an additional burden on low-income immigrants seeking to reunite with their loved ones.
What the New Rules Entail
The updated regulation requires applicants to prove a higher annual income, sufficient to support both themselves and the family members they are bringing to Norway. The new minimum income threshold, though not officially disclosed in this announcement, is expected to be a significant increase from previous years.
Key components of the new policy include:
•Applicants must provide recent tax documentation and employment contracts to verify their income.
•The income must come from legal employment, with certain types of welfare payments excluded from the calculation.
Government’s Justification
Norwegian officials state that the increased income requirement aligns with the country’s broader efforts to ensure that family reunifications do not create economic strain on social services. By enforcing stricter financial prerequisites, the government aims to foster economic integration and strengthen the overall well-being of reunited families.
A government spokesperson emphasized:
“Family reunification must be a process that supports independence and integration, ensuring that reunited families have the financial means to thrive in Norway.”
Concerns Raised by Advocacy Groups
The new regulations have drawn criticism from human rights organizations and immigrant support groups, who argue that the policy disproportionately affects refugees and lower-income immigrants. These groups warn that the higher income threshold could delay or prevent reunifications for families already separated by difficult circumstances.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about the potential for increased processing times as stricter income checks are introduced.
Broader European Context
Norway’s updated family reunification policy is part of a larger trend across Europe, where countries are implementing stricter immigration measures. Nations such as Denmark and the Netherlands have already raised their income requirements for similar programs, signaling a regional shift toward more selective family reunification processes.
The decision to raise the income requirement for family reunification in Norway marks a significant policy change with both economic and social implications. While the government aims to ensure financial stability for reunited families, critics warn that the updated regulations could place family unity out of reach for some immigrants. Those planning to apply for family reunification must now carefully review the new requirements to ensure compliance.
