Personal data from immigration cases could have a more clearly defined role in testing IT and artificial intelligence. The Ministry of Justice and Public Security (Justis- og beredskapsdepartementet) opened a consultation on 28 September 2026. As of 4 October 2026, the proposal is not adopted. Comments are due 20 November 2026.

What would the data be used for?

The proposal concerns development and testing of information systems in the immigration administration. It also covers systems using artificial intelligence (AI).

Utlendingsdirektoratet (UDI), the directorate that handles many residence applications, and Utlendingsnemnda (UNE), the appeals board, use such systems. The police also form part of the immigration administration. The ministry wants to clarify the powers to use data the authorities have already collected.

The proposal is linked to ModUlf, the work to modernise immigration administration systems. The ministry's announcement⁠ describes the aim as reliable systems and correct decisions. It does not guarantee a shorter wait in your case.

What limits are proposed?

Under the proposal, real personal data would only be used when anonymous or invented data are insufficient. The condition is that achieving the purpose would otherwise be impossible or disproportionately difficult.

The proposed new § 17-7 c of utlendingsforskriften, the Immigration Regulations, also sets limits:

  • Only specially authorised people would have access.
  • Data must not be used for testing longer than necessary.
  • Use must meet requirements for privacy and necessary data processing.

Immigration cases can include information about health, religion and biometrics, such as fingerprints. The consultation paper does not exclude information from asylum interviews either. These limits therefore matter to people who have shared sensitive information with the authorities. See the consultation paper, sections 3.2 and 8⁠.

SamfunnPrep also offers explanations in its topic on digital judgement.

Does this mean AI will decide your application?

This new legal power concerns testing and development. According to the consultation letter, it does not govern later use of the systems.

The proposal itself is therefore not a decision that AI will determine your residence application. It does not currently change what you need to submit for an ongoing application either.

Deleting test data once they are no longer needed for testing also does not mean deleting the entire immigration case. Data may still be needed for other lawful purposes. SamfunnPrep's guide to privacy and personal data explains the basic concepts.

How can you submit comments?

Anyone may submit a consultation response by 20 November 2026. Responses will be public.

For example, you can comment on which data should be used, access to data or information for the person concerned. The consultation letter⁠ links to the response form. As of 4 October 2026, it gives no date for the rules to take effect.