Residence Permit for Victims of Domestic Abuse (Oppholdstillatelse for mishandlede)

This independent residence permit protects persons who entered Norway through family immigration but experienced abuse from a spouse or cohabitant. Issued under Immigration Act Section 53, it decouples legal status from the abuser. Core eligibility requires holding a family immigration permit, credible evidence of serious or repeated abuse, and proof of leaving the relationship.

No application fee. Processing involves a police interview detailing the abuse with interpreter support. The non-renewable permit serves as a transition pathway to skilled worker status or permanent residence. Work authorization is granted, enabling independent self-sufficiency.

This visa is ideal for foreign nationals trapped in abusive relationships during family immigration, seeking to escape domestic violence while maintaining legal status.