Bostedskrav

Bostedskrav is a term used in Norwegian administrative contexts to describe a requirement that a person must have a registered residence within a specific jurisdiction to be eligible for certain services, benefits, or rights administered there. The concept centers on the idea that eligibility should be linked to a defined place of living, often evidenced by official address registration.

Common contexts for bostedskrav include municipal housing queues, where applicants must reside in the municipality to qualify for housing assistance, and access to local social services, child benefits, or healthcare provisions that are targeted to residents of a particular area. Bostedskrav can also influence eligibility for local voting rights in some municipalities or for school placement and other local programs that prioritize or restrict access based on residence. In many cases, applicants must provide documentation such as proof of address, lease agreements, or utility bills, and authorities verify whether the residence criteria are met or if there is intent to reside in the area for a prescribed period.

Enforcement and consequences can include suspension or loss of eligibility if a person moves away, fails to meet residency duration requirements, or provides false information. Critics argue that strict bostedskrav may create barriers for transient populations, students, and migrant workers, while proponents contend that they support accurate targeting of local services and efficient resource allocation. The specifics of bostedskrav vary by country, region, and program.