Planning your arrival

Students from countries  outside EU/EFTA area must apply for a study permit at the at The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration’s website (UDI).  The application process should start soon after receiving the letter of acceptance. 

Confirmation of finance is included in the letter of acceptance. Exchange/bilateral students do not have to submit additional documentation of finance in connection with their student permit application. 

Exchange/bilateral students from countries  outside EU/EFTA area are exempted of paying tuition fees to UIB.

All student visa applications submitted by the 1 July / 1 December will be processed in time for the semester start. 

You will find detailed information at The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration’s website (UDI).  

Students travelling to Norway are advised to have a valid travel and health insurance for the entire duration of their stay in Norway.  

For more information: Health and Insurance for international students. 

• We advise you to book your trip in time for the semester start/welcome program.
• Familiarize yourself with  Norwegian customs and regulations.
• Check the UIB start dates. If you have exams at your home university that overlap with the semester dates, you may apply to sit for your exams at UIB. 

The Norwegian climate might be very different from what you are used to and therefore we advise you bring the following: 

• Practical clothes: bring layers/warm clothes like wool socks, sweaters, scarf, gloves (it can be very cold in the period between December to March).
• Raincoat/wind water resistant jacket and a warm winter coat/jacket.
• Practical shoes: Water-resistant/warm winter boots.
• For hygienic reasons, bedding is not included  (duvets, pillows, towels, and bed sheets) at SAMMEN housing. It can be bought in Norway at a reasonable price.  

• Kitchen cutlery. 

• Prescription medicines: You can bring prescription medicines to Norway. However, it is important to carry documentation proving that the medicine is for personal use. You will find more information at this website. 

• Banking options and cash: We advise you to bring along a credit or debit card that works in Norway. It is normally not possible to open a bank account if your stay in Norway will be of 6 months or less.  

The most affordable way to travel from the airport to city center or Fantoft is via public transport: Bergen Light Rail (bybanen) and Skyss buss or the airport bus Flybussen to the city center. 

•  Download the Skyss app to your mobile phone and buy a ticket anywhere and at any time. This is the easiest and cheapest way to buy a ticket.
• You can pick up your room keys from the 1 August / 1 January. Information about opening hours at the different service center desk is available SAMMEN.  

• Most UIB faculties are located in the city center and easily accessible from public transportation. For more information see Campus map.

•  Faculty information centres.