Job searching benefits for citizens in Norway?

I have a friend whose wife is like yours.  Unfortunately benefits are only applicable if she has contributed at least 6 months of income tax.  That's what happened to my friend's wife.

They were planning to have a baby so they came to Norway.  She had to find a job which is easy for her since she does know how to speak norwegian.

Thank you, fornight.  So your friend's insurance does not cover the spouse?  Is each person required to obtain their own insurance?  In the US, one spouse insures the entire family, I'm guessing it's the same there, but I just want to understand what you said... that your friend's wife could not get healthcare insurance for six months?

Hi, My friend did not have job at that time too so he did not have access to public health care system.  He also took a while to find job because he did not speak norwegian.  He has to apply for his own personal number (like social security number) in order to access to healthcare system.

His wife has access to the healthcare system because she already has a number.  But she does not have access to maternity benefits like maternity leave because she needs to work for at least 6 months for that.

Thanks again.  My wife has a personal ID niumber, as do our kids.  My wife obtained citizenship/passports for them. 

Even though my wife and children are citizens and have far fewer hurdles/obstacles, the major issue is employment. 

I read a lot of conflicting information.  For all I read about how difficult it is, i can read an equal amount saying it is doable.  'Hard to believe what is right and wrong.

Anyway, thanks again for the information.