Orthoptist

When should I apply?

Authorisation does not alter established working conditions, but when health workers change jobs or renew their contracts it is probable that documentary proof of authorisation will be requested.

For professional practitioners encompassed by the Transitional Regulations (not currently available in English), the deadline for application expires on 31 January 2007. It is therefore not necessary to apply immediately. The professional title may be used without authorisation until the end of 2002.

Conditions of authorisation

There are two ways of obtaining authorisation as orthoptist:

1. Present a certified copy of diploma confirming successful completion of qualification as orthoptist at a college or university accredited by International Orthoptist Association (IOA), or
2. Document that you satisfy the requirements described in Transitional Regulations (currently not available in English), section 7. Should you not be in possession of a diploma, authorisation may be granted if you have completed other education/training within the profession and have practised as orthoptist for at least two years (full time or equivalent part-time) since 1 January 1996. Work experience in part-time posts of under 50% does not count. Relevant experience must be confirmed through the use of a specified attestation form to be filled in by the employer (currently only in Norwegian).

For this group, applications will be processed in accordance with Council Directive 89/48/EEC, cf. 92/51/EEC (with subsequent amendments). This does not grant right of recognition, but the Directive contains rules governing the granting of authorisation. These rules have been incorporated in a separate EEA Regulation of 21 December 2000, see Ch. VII. The main rule is that the education/training not deviate to any marked degree from the requirements as to competence laid down by Norwegian regulations.

Applicants with other foreign qualifications as orthoptist

For applicants with foreign qualifications from outside the EEA, it is normally required education from an institution accredited by IOA. Applicants will be expected to be acquainted with Norwegian health services. In certain cases external advisers will assist SAFH in making an assessment. Advisers do not make the final decision but provide professional advice which SAFH takes into account when assessing applicants' qualifications. Only when foreign qualifications have been evaluated will processing of an application for authorisation be finalised.

Updated 08.09.2011