Living in Norway: the ultimate expat guide

If you're planning to move to the land of fjords and moose, you're in for an extraordinary adventure. However, before you start packing, it's wise to address a few crucial points to avoid surprises. From the job market to the cost of living and climate, moving to Norway requires careful preparation. Here are the 10 key points you need to know before taking the leap. Ferdig? (Ready?) Gå!!! (Go!)

Administrative formalities are relatively simple in Norway

Residence permits and registration

EU/EEA citizens don't need a visa to enter Norway but must register with Norwegian authorities for stays longer than three months. Non-European nationals must secure a visa or residence permit before relocating.

The Norwegian ID number (Fødselsnummer)

A Fødselsnummer is essential for daily life, from opening bank accounts to accessing healthcare and securing employment. Register your residence with the Norwegian Tax Administration to obtain it.

Opening a bank account

Although opening a bank account in Norway can seem daunting for newcomers, it becomes straightforward with a Fødselsnummer. You'll need proof of residence and an employment contract to complete the process.

Norway has a dynamic job market

High-demand sectors

Certain sectors in Norway are booming. Finding a job should be relatively easy if you have expertise in key industries such as information technology (IT), renewable energy, or even petroleum (despite Norway's green image, oil remains a key sector). Other growing fields include fishing, aquaculture, tourism, and healthcare, where medical professionals are in high demand.

Unemployment rate and job opportunities

Norway boasts a low unemployment rate, around 3-4%. Skilled workers are highly sought after, with companies often recruiting international talent for specialized roles. Professionals like engineers, doctors, developers, and teachers have a clear advantage. However, entering the job market without a concrete plan or relevant skills, particularly without knowing the language, can be challenging.

Work contracts and conditions

Norwegian employment contracts offer excellent working conditions, with a serious emphasis on work-life balance. Regardless of the type of contract, whether temporary or permanent, the provide good social protection and generous benefits. Flexible working hours and generous leave policies are the norm for a very well-protected workforce.

Networking and job hunting

Networking is key to landing a job in Norway. While job boards like Finn.no are useful, a strong LinkedIn profile and professional networking can make a big difference. Norwegians value connections, so embrace the opportunity to build them.

Norway guarantees access to quality healthcare

Universal healthcare access

All residents benefit from Norway's high-quality universal health system. As an expat, you'll need to register early for this system by obtaining your Fødselsnummer (Norwegian national identity number). Without it, you'll be unable to see a doctor and need to pay for private medical services. Healthcare is subsidized by the state, and most consultations are partially covered.

Healthcare quality

Norway's healthcare infrastructure is modern, well-equipped, and staffed by highly competent doctors and nurses. Most medical staff also speak English, making it easier for expats. The country is renowned for its high-quality healthcare system, with facilities well-distributed across the entire territory.

Specifics for expats

Once you have obtained your identification number, you can select a designated general practitioner. This doctor will be your first point of contact for any health-related issues. However, be mindful of potentially long waiting times for non-urgent consultations.

Costs and coverage

Healthcare in Norway is subsidized, but small out-of-pocket fees apply. For instance, a visit to the general practitioner costs between 150 and 300 NOK (€13-25). After reaching an annual expense cap, further treatments are free.

Norway has a high cost of living

Housing

The cost of living in Norway is steep, non the least in matters of accommodation, especially in urban centers like Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger that have high-priced rents. Rent for a one to two-bedroom apartment in central Oslo ranges from 10,000 to 20,000 NOK (€850-1,700) per month. Moving away from city centers or to smaller towns can significantly lower costs.

Food

Groceries are expensive too, largely due to high import taxes, but buying local and store-brand items helps save money for many locals and expats. Dining out at a restaurant is also pricey; expect to pay over 200 NOK (€18) for lunch and about €40 per person for a three-course dinner.

Transportation

Public transport in Norway is efficient but costly, with monthly passes costing 800-1,200 NOK (€70-100). Even if you consider driving in Norway, you should know that cars and fuel are expensive, primarily due to environmental taxes.

Taxes and social security

Norwegian taxes are high, with rates reaching up to 38% of gross income, but fund top-notch public services, including healthcare, education, and social protection, making the tax burden more agreeable for most residents.

Finding accommodation in Norway

The housing market

Finding accommodation in Norway, particularly in Oslo, can be challenging due to a highly competitive housing market. Begin your search for a place to stay early before relocating, and consider hiring real estate agents, even for rentals. Landlords often require several months' rent upfront or a bank guarantee.

Renting and buying

For most expats, renting is the go-to option in Norway, largely due to the high cost of property and the intricate administrative requirements for homeownership. While renting is preferable for its flexibility and simplicity, it can also come with a hefty price tag.

Popular neighborhoods for expats

Norway's cities offer diverse attractive neighborhoods to suit a range of lifestyles. In Oslo, Frogner stands out for its refined apartments and serene ambiance, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet yet upscale living environment. Grünerløkka, on the other hand, caters to a younger, trendier crowd, boasting an array of cafés, restaurants, and unique shops. In Bergen, expats often gravitate toward the city center or areas near the universities, where the vibrant international community fosters a welcoming atmosphere.

Norway offers a unique climate

Seasonal variations

The climate varies widely across Norway. The south experiences mild summers and cold winters, while northern regions above the Arctic Circle endure harsh winters and enjoy the Midnight Sun in summer. Winter is typically long and harsh throughout most of the country, with sub-zero temperatures, sometimes extreme, and heavy snowfall.

Local adaptations

Norwegians embrace “layering”, a technique of wearing multiple layers of clothing to stay comfortable and adjust to changing temperatures.

Important:

Invest in waterproof, insulated clothing.

Adapting lifestyle to the weather

Despite challenging conditions, Norwegians are outdoor enthusiasts and won't let the weather hold them back. Skiing, hiking, and camping are popular year-round and provide great opportunities to connect with locals.

Norway has a vibrant social and cultural life

Lifestyle

Nature and the outdoors are at the core of the Norwegian way of life. Locals like to spend much of their time out and about, even in winter, and they do value sustainability and outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and camping, which are central to their lifestyle throughout the year. Recycling and eco-friendly habits are also widespread.

Traditions and celebrations

Traditions play a vibrant role in Norwegian culture. Key celebrations include Constitution Day on May 17, marked by parades under the Norwegian flag and traditional costumes (bunad). Christmas is another cherished highlight, celebrated with Christmas markets and traditional meals and festivities throughout December.

Networking and friendships

Making friends in Norway may seem daunting sometimes. While Norwegians may seem reserved initially, they are loyal friends once you earn their trust. Joining group activities, such as sports clubs, social events or language courses, is a great way to build connections.

Language

Norwegian language

Norwegian is the country's official language and comes in two primary written forms: bokmål and nynorsk. While most Norwegians speak English, learning Norwegian enhances integration and boosts career opportunities.

English language – Norway's “true” second language

While nynorsk, bokmål and sami are Norway's official languages, English is widely spoken across Norway, particularly in major cities and among the younger generation. Speaking Norwegian nonetheless remains crucial in rural areas of for jobs requiring direct interaction with locals.

Learning resources

Many municipalities offer free Norwegian courses, and there are numerous online platforms to help you learn.

Free Norwegian courses are often available through municipalities, alongside numerous online platforms to help you learn the language. This is a very agreeable investment for expats who wish to extend their stay in Norway.

Norway offers quality education and family-friendly services

Schools and nurseries

Norway boasts a stellar education system. Public schools in Norway are free, with instruction primarily in Norwegian. International schools cater to expat families in larger cities like Oslo, offering curricula in English. Daycare (barnehager) is widely available for children over one year old, but early registration is critical in larger cities due to limited spots.

International programs

For families seeking an international education setting for their children, Norway offers a variety of bilingual and international schools in Oslo and other major cities. These institutions commonly follow globally recognized curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), and provide an excellent learning environment tailored to the needs of expat families.

Family-friendly services

Norway is highly family-friendly, offering generous parental leave (up to 49 weeks of paid leave for parents) and a range of financial supports to families, such as family allowances and childcare subsidies. These policies greatly support young parents in a more manageable life and make Norway a welcoming destination for families.

Norway offers a great quality of life

Safety in Norway

Norway consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world, with a low crime rate. Trust and integrity are deeply ingrained in society. You can thus move freely without fear, even late at night, in most cities. Peace of mind is one of the key reasons why many expats choose to settle here.

Social welfare system

Norway's social welfare system is among the most generous globally. Whether it's healthcare, education, or financial support, the country offers a robust safety net, ensuring that residents are well-supported at every stage of life.

Work-life balance

One of the standout features of life in Norway is the emphasis on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Norwegians value their free time and family, with flexible working hours and shorter workdays. This allows time for personal activities and leisure, making Norway an ideal destination for those seeking a fulfilling lifestyle. Looking to enhance your quality of life? Look no further—Norway has it all!

Conclusion: What to expect

Relocating to Norway requires careful planning but rewards you with exceptional quality of life. From breathtaking landscapes to robust social systems, Norway is a safe and uniquely enriching place to live. By following these 10 essential tips, you'll be well-equipped to embrace this exciting new chapter and thrive in Norway!