Finland

Norway Relocation Guide: Your Gateway to the Nordics

Norway offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, economic stability, and progressive values. From the fjords to the tech hubs of Oslo, it’s a country where quality of life meets opportunity. Whether you're relocating for work, family, or lifestyle, Norway’s systems are designed to support a smooth transition—especially with expert guidance from Consilium Relocation, your trusted partner in Nordic moves.

This guide walks you through every major step: visas, housing, education, tax benefits, and cultural integration. With the right preparation, your move to Norway can be as breathtaking as its landscapes.

Visa & Residency

  • Visa Types:

    • Work Visa: For employment with a Norwegian company.

    • EU/EEA Citizens: Can live and work freely but must register.

    • Family Immigration: For spouses, children, or partners.

    • Student Visa: For university or language studies.

  • Application Process:

  • D-number:

  • Temporary identity number for foreigners without a Norwegian personal number.

  • Required for banking, contracts, and tax registration.

Consilium Relocation supports clients through every step of the visa and registration process, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.

Housing

  • Popular Cities:

    • Oslo: Capital, cosmopolitan, high demand.

    • Bergen: Coastal charm, strong expat community.

    • Stavanger: Oil industry hub, family-friendly.

    • Trondheim: Academic and tech center.

  • Finding a Home:

  • Tips:

  • Understand “leiekontrakt” (rental contract) terms.

  • Be prepared for competitive markets in urban areas.

Consilium Relocation offers tailored housing support, from short-term stays to long-term family homes, with local insight and negotiation assistance.

International Schools

Norway offers a range of international and bilingual schools for families seeking English-language education:

  • Curricula Offered:

    • IB (International Baccalaureate): Widely available.

    • British and American systems: Found in Oslo and Bergen.

    • European languages: French, German, and Dutch schools exist in major cities.

  • Top Schools: | School Name | Location | Curriculum | |--------------------------------|--------------|--------------------| | Oslo International School | Oslo | IB | | International School of Bergen | Bergen | IB | | British International School | Stavanger | British | | Skagerak International School | Sandefjord | IB |

  • Admission Tips:

  • Apply early—spaces are limited.

  • Some schools require interviews or assessments.

  • Tuition fees vary; public bilingual options may be available.

Consilium Relocation helps families identify the best-fit schools and navigate admissions with confidence.

Work & Career

  • Job Search:

  • Work Culture:

    • Egalitarian, informal, and consensus-driven.

    • Strong emphasis on work-life balance and parental leave.

  • Language:

  • English is common in business; Norwegian is essential for full integration.

  • Free or subsidized language courses available.

  • Banking:

  • Open a Norwegian bank account with ID and D-number.

  • Popular banks: DNB, Nordea, SpareBank 1.

Culture & Lifestyle

  • Social Norms:

    • Punctuality and modesty are valued.

    • Reserved but friendly—relationships take time to build.

    • Strong environmental consciousness.

  • Traditions:

    • 17th of May (Constitution Day): National celebration with parades and bunads.

    • Julebord: Festive company dinners in December.

  • Seasons:

  • Long winters with cozy “kos” culture.

  • Summer brings midnight sun in the north and outdoor festivals.

Getting Around

  • Public Transport:

    • Efficient systems in cities: Ruter (Oslo), Skyss (Bergen), Kolumbus (Stavanger).

    • Apps for tickets and schedules are widely used.

  • Cycling:

    • Bike-friendly cities with dedicated lanes.

  • Driving:

  • EU licenses valid; non-EU may need conversion.

  • Winter tires mandatory from November to April.

Expert Tax Reduction Scheme (Skattefritak for Utenlandske Arbeidstakere)

Norway offers tax incentives for foreign professionals with specialized skills:

  • Eligibility:

    • Must be recruited from abroad.

    • Applies to roles requiring unique expertise.

  • Benefits:

    • 10% income tax reduction for up to 2 years.

    • Applies to salary and certain benefits.

  • Application:

  • Employer applies via the Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteetaten).

  • Must be submitted shortly after employment begins.

Consilium Relocation guides eligible professionals through this scheme to optimize financial outcomes and ensure compliance.

Summary: Your Norwegian Chapter Begins

Relocating to Norway is a chance to embrace nature, balance, and opportunity. With its strong public systems, welcoming communities, and high quality of life, Norway is an ideal destination for international professionals and families.

Consilium Relocation is here to make your transition seamless—from paperwork and housing to schools and tax strategy. With deep Nordic expertise and a client-first approach, we ensure your move isn’t just successful—it’s transformative.