From 1 January 2020, it is allowed to have one or more citizenships in addition to a Norwegian citizenship.

This means that Norwegians are able to keep their Norwegian citizenship if they become citizens of another country. Those who have lost their Norwegian citizenship under the old rules because they became citizens of another country will be able to reclaim it. 

To reinstate your Norwegian citizenship, you will need to submit an online application form at UDI.no and pay the application fee, then attend an appointment with the Norwegian Embassy (in Washington DC) or a consulate general (in New York, Houston or San Francisco) to hand in the documents needed to process your application.* 

Please note that the rules regarding retention of citizenship for children born abroad to a Norwegian parent have not changed. If you were a dual citizen as a child, and did not spend at least 6 months in Norway before you turned 22, you will not be able to reclaim your Norwegian citizenship. 

Read more about obtaining dual citizenship at the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) websites. UDI is the central agency in the Norwegian immigration administration, and can answer questions about the citizenship rules. Here is the contact info for the UDI.  

What does it entail to have dual citizenship? 

• You have the same rights and obligations in relation to the Norwegian state as other Norwegian citizens. 
• You are entitled to have two passports, one from each country.
• In principle, you are entitled to consular aid and help from the authorities of both countries. However, it can be difficult for Norwegian authorities to help you if you are staying in the country in which you have your other citizenship. 

Are you a Norwegian citizen? 

Are you wondering whether you already are a Norwegian citizen? Answer the questions in this guide, and you will get an answer. https://www.udi.no/en/word-definitions/are-you-a-norwegian-citizen/ 

* Please note that honorary consulates are not able to receive these applications.