Ed Palmer
03-27-06, 07:25 AM
Citizenship rules get tougher (Norway)
HOPEFULY COMING TO A COUNTRY NEAR YOU
Foreigners applying for Norwegian citizenship will soon face tougher rules, and need to prove that they're fairly fluent in the Norwegian language.
Starting September 1, 2008, nearly all those seeking citizenship will be required to document that they've had 300 hours of lessons in the Norwegian language and in Norwegian life and society.
Those lacking documentation will have to take a language test that will measure comprehension of Norwegian and their ability to speak and write Norwegian. The state's goal is to make sure that would-be citizens can get along in Norwegian on a daily basis.
Norway's looming language requirement follows similar moves in Denmark and the Netherlands. Various portions of Germany also have begun requiring proof of language competence.
The only foreigners exempt from the language rules will be those under age 18 or over age 55. All, however, will still need to document seven years of legal residence in Norway.
KEYWORDS: CITIZENSHIP; IMMIGRANTS; IMMIGRATION; NORWAY
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Well, perhaps it's about time we followed the lead of the Norwegians. who incidentally also have the best border patrols one can have.
HOPEFULY COMING TO A COUNTRY NEAR YOU
Foreigners applying for Norwegian citizenship will soon face tougher rules, and need to prove that they're fairly fluent in the Norwegian language.
Starting September 1, 2008, nearly all those seeking citizenship will be required to document that they've had 300 hours of lessons in the Norwegian language and in Norwegian life and society.
Those lacking documentation will have to take a language test that will measure comprehension of Norwegian and their ability to speak and write Norwegian. The state's goal is to make sure that would-be citizens can get along in Norwegian on a daily basis.
Norway's looming language requirement follows similar moves in Denmark and the Netherlands. Various portions of Germany also have begun requiring proof of language competence.
The only foreigners exempt from the language rules will be those under age 18 or over age 55. All, however, will still need to document seven years of legal residence in Norway.
KEYWORDS: CITIZENSHIP; IMMIGRANTS; IMMIGRATION; NORWAY
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Well, perhaps it's about time we followed the lead of the Norwegians. who incidentally also have the best border patrols one can have.