Family Reunification in Norway Sees Significant Increase
In a striking development, Norway witnessed a substantial rise in family reunification permits granted to individuals from outside the EU/EEA last year. A total of 11,695 people received approval, marking the highest numbers since 2017, when the repercussions of the migrant crisis were felt most acutely. This represents a notable 29 percent increase from the previous year.
Critics are quick to respond. Erlend Wiborg of the Progress Party (Frp) alleges that while the government loudly touts austerity measures, the reality depicted by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) tells a different story. “Family immigration is reaching unprecedented levels since the migrant crisis, all while the government claims to have matters under control. This is a clear case of deception,” Wiborg remarked in an interview with Nettavisen.
Syrians Lead the Stats
The statistics reveal that Syria was the most significant contributor, with 2,008 permits granted for family reunification. This is the highest since 2017 and more than double the number recorded in 2021. Wiborg pointed out the contradiction: “While several European countries, including Denmark, are planning to send Syrians back, Norway is moving in the opposite direction.”
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OUTRAGED: Erlend Wiborg discusses the unexpectedly high immigration figures published by UDI, asserting that the government’s policies are failing.
Photo: Jonas Fæste Laksekjøn
Non-Western Countries Dominate
Further analysis of the UDI report shows that all five of the largest origin countries for family reunification are non-Western. In fact, eight out of the top ten countries fall into this category, with an impressive approval rate of 88 percent for family immigration. Pakistan stands out with 716 approvals in 2025, the highest number since 2023 and more than twice the rate recorded during the tenure of the FRP and the Conservative Party.
Wiborg expressed surprise at this continued immigration trend from Pakistan, questioning, “After over 50 years of immigration history in Norway, why are so many still seeking family immigration?”
Increased Strain on Municipalities
The FRP warns that the government’s current immigration policies could exacerbate integration challenges and escalate costs for local municipalities. “The fact that eight out of ten countries on the top ten list are non-Western clearly indicates that existing policies are contributing to growing alienation and integration difficulties,” Wiborg stated. “The government is not only dividing society but also shifting the financial burden onto local communities.”
He took aim at Labor deputy leader Tonje Brenna, who prior to Christmas asserted a commitment to tighter immigration policies. “While she boasts of austerity, the government is facilitating record levels of immigration from non-Western countries—something that historically incurs significant costs for local entities.”
Minister of Justice Astri Aas-Hansen refuted these claims, stating that the government is committed to addressing the challenges of irregular migration and potential misuse of the asylum system. “In 2026, we will prioritize more effective immigration management, including stricter conditions for family immigration, enhanced return efforts, and increased international collaboration on new solutions,” she responded via email to Nettavisen.
A Shift in Policy
Looking ahead, the FRP plans to implement a sweeping policy shift should they gain influence. Among their proposals are stricter requirements for family reunification, including mandates for applicants to be fully integrated, proficient in the language, self-sufficient, and devoid of any criminal record. Wiborg added, “We will also deny family reunification to those on temporary residence and relocate asylum processing outside the country.”
He concluded by emphasizing the necessity of maintaining control over immigration flows, stating, “Integration cannot succeed without a firm grip on who enters and in what numbers. Norway, like the rest of Europe, must reconsider its stance. The current government is heading in the opposite direction, and that is simply irresponsible.”