Moving to Norway: The Expat’s Guide

Published on November 12, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Moving to Norway as an expatriate is an exciting adventure, but it can also present challenges for those who are unprepared.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of essential steps, from the visa application process to navigating the job market, including understanding cultural elements and nuances of daily Norwegian life.

Discover how to effectively integrate into the local community and fully enjoy the natural and cultural richness of this Nordic country, while avoiding common pitfalls that many newcomers encounter.

Preparing Your Move to Norway

Before moving to Norway, several procedures and preparations are essential to ensure a smooth relocation that complies with local regulations.

Visas and Residence Permits

• Determine whether you need a Schengen visa (for stays under 90 days) or a residence permit (for stays over 90 days: work, study, family reunification).
• EU/EEA nationals and certain other countries are visa-exempt for short stays but must register with the police for long-term stays.
• Valid passport (at least 3-6 months beyond planned departure date).
• Online application via the UDI portal for residence permits, followed by biometric data submission at embassy or police station.
• Required documents: proof of accommodation, financial resources, employment or study contract, health insurance, police certificate, passport photos, payment of administrative fees.
• Starting 2025, ETIAS authorization is mandatory for non-European visa-exempt short-stay travelers.

Administrative Procedures to Plan Ahead

• Prepare digital and paper copies of all important documents (passport, insurance, contracts).
• Comprehensive travel insurance strongly recommended, particularly for medical coverage and risk activities.
• Register upon arrival with authorities (police station) to obtain a Norwegian identification number (personnummer).

Finding Accommodation

• Research in advance on specialized platforms (Finn.no, Hybel.no) or through expatriate social networks.
• Budget accordingly, as the rental market is tight in major cities.
• A rental contract is typically required for residence permit applications.

Opening a Bank Account

• Present your passport, residence permit, proof of address, and possibly employment contract.
• Some banks may require a Norwegian identification number.
• Compare offers from major banks (DNB, Nordea, SpareBank 1).

Setting Up Healthcare Services

• Enrollment in public health insurance (HELFO) mandatory after registration, for stays exceeding 6 months.
• For short stays, obtain private international insurance.
• Learn about healthcare access, general practitioner system (fastlege), and medication coverage.

Climate Preparation and Appropriate Clothing

Season	Average Temperatures	Recommended Clothing
Winter (Nov-Mar)	-10°C to 5°C	Warm coat, thermal underwear, hat, gloves, waterproof boots, technical layers
Spring	0°C to 10°C	Windproof jacket, sweaters, layering clothing
Summer	10°C to 25°C	Light clothing, raincoat, fleece for evenings
Autumn	0°C to 10°C	Parka, waterproof boots, scarf, rainwear

• Prioritize layering (multilayer system) to adapt to rapid weather changes.
• Specific gear for outdoor activities: hiking boots, breathable and waterproof clothing.

Learning Norwegian

• English proficiency is helpful, but learning Norwegian facilitates integration.
• Enroll in online courses (Duolingo, Babbel, FutureLearn) or in-person classes (folk high schools, local language schools).
• Mobile apps, podcasts, and specialized YouTube channels for daily practice.
• Some municipalities offer free or subsidized courses for newcomers.

Resources for Cultural Adaptation

• Practical guides: “Living in Norway,” expatriate websites, specialized forums (Expat.com, Internations).
• Learn about customs (punctuality, privacy respect, gender equality, relationship with nature).
• Participate in local events, traditional celebrations, and association activities.

Suggestions for Building Social and Professional Networks

• Join Facebook or Meetup groups for expatriates and professionals in Norway.
• Use LinkedIn to connect with Norwegians in your target sector.
• Attend networking events (after-work gatherings, conferences, workshops).
• Register for sports or cultural clubs to facilitate informal meetings.
• Take time to familiarize yourself with Norwegian social codes: discretion, modesty, preference for equal relationships, importance of consensus.

Key Takeaways

Thorough administrative preparation, climate-appropriate clothing adaptation, Norwegian language learning, and involvement in local life are keys to successful integration in Norway.

Succeeding in Your Initial Steps in Norway

Key Administrative Steps Upon Arrival in Norway

• Registration with Local Authorities
  All European expatriates must register with Norwegian police within three months of arrival. This process provides a registration certificate (“Registreringsbevis”) confirming legal presence in the country.
• Obtaining a Personal Identification Number (D-nummer or fødselsnummer)
  • For temporary stays, a D-nummer (11-digit temporary number) is assigned.
  • For permanent residence, obtain the fødselsnummer (11-digit permanent identification number), essential for opening bank accounts, signing employment contracts, accessing healthcare, etc.
  • Apply at the Service Centre for Foreign Workers (SUA) or local tax office.
• Health Insurance Registration
  Enrollment in the Norwegian health insurance scheme typically occurs automatically after obtaining identification number. However, verify registration with NAV (Norwegian social security equivalent).

Housing Search Process

• High housing demand, especially in major cities like Oslo or Bergen.
• Main search platforms are Finn.no and Hybel.no.
• Employment contract and D-nummer often required for lease signing.
• Expect security deposit equivalent to 2-3 months’ rent.

Housing Tip	Details
Search in Advance	Begin search before arrival, visit as soon as possible
Prepare Documents	Employment contract, ID, D-nummer/bank records
Review Lease	Check duration, deposit amount, included utilities

Opening a Bank Account

• D-nummer or fødselsnummer required.
• Present valid ID, proof of address, and sometimes employment contract.
• Norwegian banks are strict about fund origins and financial transparency.
• Schedule appointments in advance, as wait times can be lengthy.

Cultural Aspects for Successful Integration

• Respect for Punctuality and Privacy: Norwegians value discretion, equality, and timeliness.
• Direct but Polite Communication: Prefer simplicity and frankness, avoid raising voice.
• Participation in Local Life: Joining sports or association activities facilitates integration.
• Learning Norwegian: Even though English is widespread, learning Norwegian is major asset for employment and social life.

Resources and Services for Expatriates

• Service Centres for Foreign Workers (SUA): Assistance with administrative procedures, D-nummer acquisition, practical information.
• Expatriate Websites and Groups: Platforms like lanorvege.no or Facebook groups facilitate experience sharing and advice.
• Embassy and Consulate: Administrative support, lists of French-speaking professionals, practical guidance.

Practical Expatriate Tips for Overcoming Common Challenges

• Plan Procedures Ahead: Schedule online appointments before arrival for registration and banking.
• Keep All Original Documents: Authorities often require paper documentation.
• Prepare for Weather and Cost of Living: Invest in proper clothing and compare prices before committing to contracts (housing, phone plans).
• Networking: Attend local events and use expatriate networks for tips on housing, employment, or daily life.
• Patience and Perseverance: Administrative delays can be lengthy, especially in Oslo; maintain positive and proactive attitude.

Key Takeaway: Your success in Norway depends on thorough preparation, understanding administrative steps, and integration efforts into Norwegian society. Local resources and expatriate networks are valuable allies for facilitating your relocation.

Integrating and Feeling at Home in Norway

Life in Norway operates within a cultural and social framework marked by strong values of equality, cooperation, and nature respect. Norwegians place great importance on work-life balance and community solidarity. Norwegian society values humility, modesty, and absence of rigid hierarchy, reflected in relaxed social relations and direct communication. The famous concept of dugnad, or cooperative volunteering, illustrates this culture of mutual aid: gathering community members to maintain or improve common assets, whether in neighborhoods, schools, or sports clubs. This principle applies to everyone regardless of social status.

Nature plays central role in Norwegians’ daily lives. Nature access is considered fundamental right, and majority population regularly practices outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, cycling, or fishing. Norwegians have strong relationship with their environment, which they actively protect. Families or friends commonly gather for weekend cabin (hytte) trips or excursions in fjords and mountains.

Meeting Norwegians and Making Friends

To make new friends and meet Norwegians, engaging in local activities is recommended. Sports clubs are particularly popular and offer excellent socialization opportunities while practicing physical activity. Language courses, especially Norwegian classes for foreigners, enable both language learning and connection building with other learners and native speakers. Outdoor activities like organized hikes or ski trips also provide ideal opportunities to meet Norwegians in informal settings.

Activity	Integration Benefits
Sports Club	Meet locals, practice physical activity
Language Course	Learn Norwegian, interact with other expatriates and Norwegians
Outdoor Activities	Discover nature, share experiences with Norwegians
Volunteering (dugnad)	Participate in community life, create social bonds

Challenges and Solutions for Expatriates

Expatriates may nevertheless encounter certain challenges, particularly language barrier and climate adaptation. Norwegian may seem difficult to learn, but enrolling in language courses and regular practice are effective progression methods. The often cold and humid climate can also be obstacle, especially in winter. Proper equipment and social contact hobbies like skiing or indoor activities are recommended.

Challenge	Overcoming Advice
Language Barrier	Enroll in Norwegian courses, practice regularly
Climate	Proper equipment, practice suitable indoor or outdoor activities
Social Isolation	Participate in group activities, join clubs or associations

Available Integration Resources

Finally, numerous resources are available to facilitate integration. Expatriate groups, online forums, and community events provide valuable support and enable experience, advice, and practical information sharing. Local associations and cultural centers regularly organize events open to all, whether themed evenings, markets, or traditional celebrations. These occasions are ideal for better understanding Norwegian culture and feeling at home.

Resource	Usefulness
Expatriate Groups	Exchange with other expatriates, share advice
Online Forums	Obtain practical information, ask questions
Community Events	Discover local culture, meet Norwegians
Local Associations	Participate in community life, social involvement

In summary, integrating in Norway requires open-mindedness, willingness to participate in local life, and adaptation to country values and habits. By engaging in social activities, learning language, and enjoying nature, expatriates can quickly feel at home and live enriching experience.

Understanding Laws and Regulations for Expatriates

Understanding laws and regulations for expatriates in Norway involves thorough knowledge of legal frameworks regarding immigration, administrative procedures, rights and obligations, and support resources.

Overview of Main Immigration Laws and Residence Requirements

• EU/EEA Citizens: No visa required for entry or work. Registration with local police mandatory for any stay exceeding three months. Valid health insurance and passport/ID card required.
• Non-EU/EEA Nationals: Must apply for Schengen visa for short stays (under 90 days) or residence permit for long stays, studies, work, or family reunification. Application typically online via UDI portal requiring appointment at embassy/consulate or local police.

Status	Visa Required?	Residence Permit?	Mandatory Registration?	Health Insurance
EU/EEA	No	No (if 3 months)	Yes	Yes
Non-EU/EEA	Yes (90 days)	Yes	Yes	Yes

List of Required Documents for Procedures

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
• Application form (online via UDI)
• Recent passport photos
• Proof of Norwegian accommodation
• Evidence of sufficient financial resources
• Employment contract, university admission letter, or marriage certificate
• Health insurance
• Police certificate (criminal record extract)
• Application fee payment receipt

Registration Process with Local Authorities

1. Initial Registration
   • Online via UDI portal for residence permit or visa.
   • Schedule appointment with local police or embassy/consulate.
   • Present original documents and provide biometric data.
2. Identification Number
   • Apply for identification number (fødselsnummer for permanent stay, D-nummer for temporary stay) at Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteetaten) or SUA center in Oslo.
   • This number is essential for opening bank accounts, signing leases, accessing healthcare, etc.
3. Declaration to Skatteetaten
   • Address registration and territory presence declaration.
   • Tax status assignment and national registry enrollment.

Expatriate Rights and Obligations

• Work: Labor market access according to permit type; same rights and duties as Norwegian citizens regarding working conditions and social protection.
• Healthcare: Automatic enrollment in public health system for registered residents; European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) recommended for EU/EEA nationals at stay beginning.
• Education: Public education access for expatriate children; specific language integration programs available.
• Taxation: Worldwide income taxation for tax residents; Norwegian progressive system application, mandatory declaration to Skatteetaten.

Resources and Support Organizations

• UDI (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration): Norwegian immigration authority, online information and procedures.
• Skatteetaten: Norwegian tax administration, identification number issuance, tax management.
• SUA (Service Centre for Foreign Workers): Center for foreign workers in Oslo, administrative procedure assistance.
• EURES: European platform for employment and expatriation in Norway, labor market information.
• Embassies and Consulates: Assistance and practical information for foreign nationals.
• Official “Work in Norway” Guide: Online resources for life and work in Norway.

Key Takeaways

Administrative procedures in Norway are strictly regulated, with precise requirements according to expatriate status. Obtaining appropriate permit, registration with authorities, and tax compliance are essential for settling and benefiting from Norwegian social rights.

Norwegian public organizations provide guides and support to facilitate integration and compliance with local legislation.