‘We truly understand that anxiety’: The human side of Norway’s immigration system upgrade

Norway is currently undergoing a six-year project to modernize its immigration system, known as ModUlf. The project aims to transform the application process for international residents in Norway, making it more efficient and user-friendly. According to Henrik Hansen, Product Lead for the ModUlf project, the development team is focused on putting the applicant’s experience first and reducing anxiety and stress caused by immigration delays.

Hansen acknowledged that dealing with immigration authorities in Norway has been a challenging and anxious experience for many international residents in the past. However, he emphasized that the ModUlf project is designed to change this, with a focus on making the application process more transparent, predictable, and accessible.

The project involves a major overhaul of the Directorate of Immigration (UDI), the Immigration Appeals Board (UNE), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (UD), and the police. The goal is to create a more streamlined and efficient system that can provide real-time application tracking, reduce waiting times, and minimize the need for applicants to contact staff.

Hansen stressed that the development team is committed to understanding the human side of immigration and is working to design systems that prioritize the applicant’s experience. He noted that the team is constantly asking themselves how their decisions will affect applicants and is working to create a system that is more user-friendly and accessible.

One of the challenges facing the ModUlf project is getting feedback from foreign residents. Many applicants are hesitant to participate in interviews or provide feedback due to concerns that it may affect their visa status. However, Hansen assured that feedback is essential to improving the system and that it will not be used against applicants. He encouraged international residents to participate in feedback sessions and to use the “Feedback on service” form on the UDI website.

The ModUlf project is expected to have a significant impact on international residents in Norway, providing a more efficient and user-friendly application process. The project aims to reduce waiting times, increase transparency, and provide more predictable timelines. Ultimately, the goal is to create a system that treats applicants with respect and dignity, and provides a smoother relocation experience.

As Hansen noted, “We truly understand that anxiety” caused by immigration delays, and the ModUlf project is designed to address this issue. While the project is still in its early stages, it has the potential to make a significant difference for applicants and to create a more efficient and user-friendly immigration system in Norway.

Article and image source: thelocal.no