Norway Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Norway
Important: This guide provides essential pre-move and post-arrival information for individuals and families relocating to the Kingdom of Norway. Known for its exceptional quality of life, strong economy, world-class public services, and breathtaking landscapes, Norway is a top destination for skilled workers, students and families. Immigration rules and residency processes may change — always verify details with official Norwegian authorities before relocating.
Home To Home Relocations supports clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to Norway, including export packing, air/ocean shipping, customs documentation and final delivery to major Norwegian cities such as Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger, Tromsø and Kristiansand.
1. Before You Move to Norway
1.1 Residence Permits & Visa Types
Non-EU/EEA nationals require a residence permit to live, work or study in Norway. Common permit categories include:
- Skilled Worker Permit (requires job offer from an approved employer)
- Student Permit for higher education
- Family Immigration Permit
- Seasonal Worker Permit
- Job Seeker Permit for skilled workers
- Researcher Permits
Official websites:
1.2 Working in Norway
Norway has high demand for workers in engineering, energy, maritime industries, healthcare, IT, construction and scientific research. Salaries are competitive and labour protections are strong.
1.3 Studying in Norway
Norwegian universities offer excellent academic standards. Some programmes are tuition-free, including for international students. A student residence permit is required.
1.4 Housing & Accommodation
Housing in Norway—especially in Oslo and Bergen—can be expensive. Standard rental requirements include:
- Proof of employment or income
- Passport and residence permit documents
- Security deposit (usually 2–3 months)
- Credit checks or guarantors
1.5 Banking & Finances
Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK). To open a bank account, you may need:
- Passport
- Residence permit approval
- Norwegian identification number (D-number or Fødselsnummer)
1.6 Healthcare System
Norway has an excellent public healthcare system. Once registered in the National Registry, newcomers are assigned a GP (fastlege) and gain access to subsidised healthcare services.
1.7 Documents to Prepare Before Moving
- Passport (valid throughout stay)
- Residence permit or visa approval
- Employment/education documents
- Birth/marriage certificates
- Proof of accommodation
- Police clearance certificate (may be required)
- Insurance documentation
2. Your First Weeks in Norway
2.1 Register With the Police
Newcomers must book an appointment with the police to submit biometric data and confirm their residence permit.
2.2 National Registry Registration
Residents staying longer than 6 months must register in the National Population Register to receive a Norwegian ID number.
2.3 D-Number or Fødselsnummer
The identification number is required for banking, taxes, healthcare, employment and daily life.
2.4 Healthcare Registration
Once registered, you are automatically assigned a GP. You can change your GP through the public portal helsenorge.no.
2.5 Opening a Bank Account
Banks require identity verification and may ask for employment details and proof of address.
3. Norway at a Glance
3.1 Geography & Regions
Norway is known for its dramatic fjords, mountains, northern lights and arctic landscapes. Major regions include Eastern Norway, Western Norway, Northern Norway, Southern Norway and Trøndelag.
3.2 Politics & Economy
Norway is a constitutional monarchy with a strong welfare state. The economy relies on energy (oil, gas, renewables), maritime industries, fisheries, technology and research.
3.3 Climate & Weather
Norway’s climate varies by region: coastal areas are mild and rainy, while inland and northern regions have cold winters with snow and shorter daylight hours.
4. Why Many Canadians Choose Norway
- High standard of living and excellent welfare system
- Safe, clean, and environmentally focused society
- Strong economy and employment opportunities
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor recreation
- Work–life balance and family-friendly environment
5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life
Norway is one of the world’s most expensive countries, especially for rent, food, transportation and entertainment. However, salaries are high, and public services are excellent.
- Utilities can be expensive in winter due to heating
- Public transport is reliable and widely used
- Recycling rules are strict and well-regulated
- English is widely spoken
6. Transportation & Getting Around
6.1 Public Transport
Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim offer extensive tram, metro and bus networks. Smaller towns rely on buses and ferries.
6.2 National Rail System
Bane NOR operates the rail network, connecting cities through scenic routes known worldwide.
6.3 Driving in Norway
Norway drives on the right-hand side. Winter driving conditions can be challenging; snow tires are mandatory during the winter months.
7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit
7.1 Everyday Culture
- Strong values around equality, honesty and modesty
- Love for the outdoors — skiing, hiking and nature activities
- Reserved but friendly social interactions
- High English proficiency
7.2 Major Cities & Attractions
- Oslo: Museums, fjords, cultural life
- Bergen: Colorful harbour and fjord gateways
- Tromsø: Northern lights and arctic experiences
- Stavanger: Preikestolen and coastal scenery
- Lofoten Islands: World-famous landscapes