Ranked by the United Nations Development Program as the world’s best country to live in for twelve consecutive years, Norway is a dream destination for many expats.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes, including epic fjords and glaciers, and its high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and world-class education system, Norway is home to around 877,200 expats.
If you’re considering joining them, here’s everything you need to know about relocating to Norway.
Facts About Norway
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Kingdom of Norway |
| Government | Constitutional Monarchy |
| Capital | Oslo |
| Size | 385,207 km² |
| Population | Over 5 million |
| Official Language | Norwegian |
| Currency | Norwegian Krone (NOK) |
Who Can Move to Norway?
Anyone can move to Norway, but the relocation process depends on your nationality.
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: You can move to Norway without a visa. If you plan to stay longer than three months, you must register with local authorities.
- Non-EU/EEA Citizens: You will need to apply for a long-stay visa and a residence permit before moving to Norway.
Moving to Norway as an EU/EEA Citizen
If you are a citizen of the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you can enter Norway freely for up to 90 days without needing a visa. However, if you plan to stay longer, you must register with the local police within three months of your arrival. Citizens of other Nordic countries, such as Sweden, Finland, or Denmark, do not need to register at all.
Moving to Norway as a Non-EU/EEA Citizen
As a non-EU/EEA citizen, you must apply for a long-stay visa (temporary residence permit) to stay in Norway for over 90 days. The type of visa will depend on the purpose of your stay, such as work, study, or family reunification.
Moving to Norway for Work
To move to Norway for work, you must secure a work visa (temporary residence permit for work). After securing a job offer from a Norwegian employer, the visa application process involves submitting documents online via the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) and then visiting a Norwegian embassy or consulate in your home country.
Once you arrive in Norway, you need to visit the local police station to obtain your residence card.
- Validity: The work visa is valid for two years and can be renewed. After three years, you can apply for permanent residency.
- Digital Nomads: Norway’s Svalbard digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live and work in the Svalbard region, a remote yet beautiful part of Norway.
Moving to Norway to Study
If you’ve been accepted into a Norwegian university or college, you’ll need a student visa (Norway study permit) to study in Norway. You can apply for the student visa at the nearest Norwegian embassy or consulate.
- Validity: The visa is issued for the duration of your studies and can be renewed as necessary.
- Permanent Residency: A student visa alone does not qualify you for permanent residency. You must apply for a work visa upon completing your studies if you wish to remain in Norway.
Moving to Norway for Family Reunification
To join a family member in Norway, you need a family reunification visa. Eligible family members include:
- Spouses or registered partners
- Cohabitating partners
- Children under 18 years of age
- Dependent children over the age of 18
- Parents and minor siblings
Once in Norway, you must register with the local police to receive your residence card. The visa can be issued for a period of one to three years and can be renewed. After three years, you may apply for permanent residency.
How to Become a Permanent Resident in Norway
You can apply for permanent residency after three years of continuous legal residence in Norway on a temporary residence permit. For EU/EEA citizens, the waiting period is five years.
Applications must be submitted in person before your current residence permit expires.
How to Obtain Norwegian Citizenship
You can apply for Norwegian citizenship after living in the country for seven out of the last ten years with valid residence permits. Each permit must have been valid for at least one year. Additionally, you must pass language and social studies tests and have a clean criminal record.
You can apply for citizenship after only three years if you are married or in a civil partnership with a Norwegian citizen.
Does Norway Allow Dual Citizenship?
Since January 2020, Norway allows dual citizenship, meaning you do not need to renounce your original citizenship to become a Norwegian citizen. However, you must ensure that your home country also permits dual citizenship.
Pros and Cons of Moving to Norway
Before moving to Norway, consider the following pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong Economy: Norway has one of the strongest economies in the world, largely due to its oil, gas, and natural resources sectors. | High Cost of Living: Living in Norway is expensive, especially in cities like Oslo. Monthly living expenses can range from $2,000 to $4,500. |
| Safety: Norway has low crime rates, making it one of the safest countries in the world. | Cold Weather: Norway’s far northern location means cold winters and cool summers, particularly in coastal areas. |
| Universal Healthcare: Residents enjoy universal healthcare, funded by taxes and payroll contributions. | Expensive Housing: Property prices and rental rates are high, especially in cities. |
| High-Quality Education: Norway offers free, world-class public education and free higher education. | High Taxes: Norway’s value-added tax (VAT) and high personal income taxes can increase the cost of goods and services. |
| Widely Spoken English: Even though Norwegian is the official language, English is widely spoken, making it easier for expats. | |
| Stunning Natural Scenery: Norway is famous for its fjords, mountains, and forests. |
How to Move Your Belongings to Norway
You can move your belongings to Norway by sea, air, or road. Here are some customs regulations to keep in mind:
- Goods valued below 6,000 NOK (approx. $564) do not need to be declared.
- Currency over 25,000 NOK (approx. $2,350) must be declared.
- Personal belongings such as clothing, furniture, and appliances can be brought in duty-free if they are for personal use.
Prohibited items include meat and milk products from non-EU/EEA countries, potatoes, fireworks, and drinks with over 60% alcohol.
Bringing Pets to Norway
You can bring pets to Norway if they meet certain requirements:
- Pets must have a microchip and a valid anti-rabies vaccination.
- Dogs must receive an anti-echinococcus treatment.
- Pets from the EU must have an EU pet passport. Pets from outside the EU must have an animal health certificate.
- Banned dog breeds include Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Dogo Argentinos.
Popular Cities in Norway for Expats
Some of the most popular cities for expats in Norway include:
- Oslo: The capital, known for job opportunities, high salaries, and its large expat community.
- Arendal: A smaller, peaceful town ideal for families seeking a quiet lifestyle.
- Bergen: Known as the “fjord capital,” offering breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Trondheim: A historic city, great for families and tech professionals.
- Alesund: A picturesque port town with a rich fishing tradition and Art Nouveau architecture.
Oslo
As Norway’s capital, Oslo is a major center for work opportunities, especially in the oil, gas, and technology sectors. It offers a high quality of life but is one of the world’s most expensive cities. However, the high salaries in Oslo help offset the cost of living.
Bergen
Bergen is the gateway to Norway’s stunning fjords and is known for its cultural heritage and proximity to nature. It’s a great choice for expats who want access to beautiful outdoor activities, coupled with a vibrant city life.
Norway is a highly desirable destination for expats thanks to its strong economy, beautiful landscapes, and high standard of living. Whether you’re planning to move for work, study, or family reunification, Norway offers a welcoming environment and many opportunities for a fulfilling life.