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Head to head

Netherlands vs Norway: the digital nomad visas compared

Partially verified Last verified June 15, 2026 Reviewed by Henry van de Vorming

The short version

  • Netherlands grants a longer initial stay (24 months vs 12), and it is renewable.
Side-by-side comparison of the Netherlands DAFT and the Norway Self-employed permit (+ Svalbard route).
Criteria Netherlands DAFT Norway Self-employed permit (+ Svalbard route)
Minimum income / month No fixed threshold €2,453
Income basis Savings accepted Freelance income
Initial duration 2 years (better) 1 year
Renewable Yes Yes
Maximum total stay No fixed limit No fixed limit
Path to permanent residence Yes Yes
Path to citizenship Via permanent residence Via permanent residence
Family inclusion Yes Yes
Working for local clients Allowed Allowed
Tax treatment Standard resident taxation (Possible 30% ruling (if eligible)) Standard resident taxation
Health insurance Required (explicit) Required in practice
Insurance duration required Full visa period Full visa period
Application fee ≈ €423 (better) ≈ €570
Where to apply In country Embassy / consulate, In country, Online
Processing time — 8–24 weeks

Green values mark the objectively better number in that row.

Full guide

Netherlands DAFT →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Full guide

Norway Self-employed permit (+ Svalbard route) →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Don't forget insurance

Both programs have their own health-insurance rules — we match plans against each one's published requirement, with the evidence shown.

Insurance for Netherlands → Insurance for Norway →

Sources