Collective protection could last up to 7 years under a new proposal, compared with 5 years today. The proposal went to consultation on 14 October 2026. As of 18 October, the legal amendment has not been adopted. The deadline for comments is 10 November 2026.

Why is the proposal being made now?

The first people granted collective protection in spring 2022 are approaching the legal limit of 5 years. The ministry wants to allow their permits to continue on the same basis.

The government previously decided to continue the scheme for people displaced from Ukraine until March 2028. That is separate from changing how long one person can hold the permit. This consultation concerns that limit in section 34 of the Immigration Act, according to the Ministry of Justice and Public Security’s consultation letter⁠.

SamfunnPrep’s guide to permanent residence explains the difference between temporary residence and permits that count towards permanent residence.

What would change?

The ministry proposes an overall limit of 7 years. Permits would still be granted for one year at a time.

The proposal also includes:

  • Keeping the original asylum application on hold for up to 7 years.
  • A subsequent permit after 7 years of collective protection that could provide a basis for permanent residence after a further 2 years.
  • Continued temporary collective protection without time counting towards permanent residence while you hold that permit.

The proposed 2 years therefore concern the subsequent permit. It does not mean that 2 years of collective protection give permanent residence. Nor is it a general right to permanent residence after 7 years.

Is this the same as the work-based residence proposal?

No. The proposal to switch to residence based on work is a separate consultation, closing on 5 November 2026. It concerns certain people who already have collective protection.

The 7-year proposal concerns continuation on a collective basis. The government describes both routes in its news announcement about continued protection⁠. Earlier clarifications appear in our news article on collective protection in 2027.

What should you watch for this autumn?

Follow the legislative process and information from Utlendingsdirektoratet (UDI), the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration, which handles residence cases. The consultation deadline is a deadline for comments to the ministry, not an application deadline for people seeking an extension.

Anyone may submit consultation comments. Responses become public. Only an adopted legal amendment can change the five-year limit. Follow official information after the consultation and before your permit expires.