Norway is a member of the Pet Travel Scheme which allows pet carnivores (dogs, cats and ferrets) from any of the countries covered by the scheme to enter the country without quarantine provided they meet specified anti-rabies, blood sampling and anti-worm/anti-tick hygiene requirements.
To qualify for the scheme, the pet must:
1. Be fitted with a microchip.
2. Be vaccinated against rabies.
3. Be blood tested to check the effectiveness of the Rabies vaccination.
4. Be issued with an Official Pet Passport (or a Pet Travel Scheme Certificate).
In order to bring small rodents, caged birds and rabbits into Norway, you are required to obtain an import permit from the Norwegian Food Safety Authority. Rodents owned by persons travelling from Sweden are exempt from this requirement.
Added by Eamonn 8/1/09 - It should be noted that whilst most of the countries in the Pet Travel Scheme will recognise a rabies vaccination for 3 years Norway insists on vaccinations on an annual basis. If a vaccination is missed by 1 day then the whole process including bloodtests must be restarted. Animals however, can be flown directly from UK to Norway without the need for PETS documentation, though this is not adviseable. There is no need for documentation if the animal is travelling from Sweden either.
Friday, November 20, 2015
Norway - Retiring and Pensions
It is unusual for the nationals of other countries to retire to Norway due to the high cost of living there.
Norway has double taxation agreements with many other countries and if covered by one of these you will not be charged twice on your income, including your pension, when living in Norway.
Norway has double taxation agreements with many other countries and if covered by one of these you will not be charged twice on your income, including your pension, when living in Norway.
Norway - Leisure, Entertainment and Sports
Norwegians are very keen on sports, with around a third of the population reportedly participating regularly in some form of sporting activity. Winter sports are especially popular, and include various forms of skiing, alpine skating and snowboarding. Hiking and cycling are popular summer sporting pursuits. River sports including kayaking and rafting are also popular. Public swimming pools can be found in most cities and main towns.
Oslo and the other main cities offer a range of arts and entertainment facilities, including cinemas, theatres, nightclubs and discos. Entertainment is often held in the hotels and major restaurants. Restaurants are expensive in Norway, so dining out tends to be an occasional treat.
Shops in Norway close early, mostly by 5 p.m. on weekdays and 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Most shops are closed on Sundays. Some supermarkets and shopping malls now have extended opening hours until 8 p.m.
Norway has a rich culture, which is often celebrated in traditional song and costume-wearing, especially on the biggest public holiday, Constitution Day, on 17th May. On Midsummer's Eve, usually on 23rd June, celebrations are held on the beaches. The main Sami celebrations are at Easter, and include reindeer racing, and traditional concerts.
Oslo and the other main cities offer a range of arts and entertainment facilities, including cinemas, theatres, nightclubs and discos. Entertainment is often held in the hotels and major restaurants. Restaurants are expensive in Norway, so dining out tends to be an occasional treat.
Shops in Norway close early, mostly by 5 p.m. on weekdays and 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Most shops are closed on Sundays. Some supermarkets and shopping malls now have extended opening hours until 8 p.m.
Norway has a rich culture, which is often celebrated in traditional song and costume-wearing, especially on the biggest public holiday, Constitution Day, on 17th May. On Midsummer's Eve, usually on 23rd June, celebrations are held on the beaches. The main Sami celebrations are at Easter, and include reindeer racing, and traditional concerts.
Norway - Food and Drink
Food
Traditional Norwegian "farm" food is made by whatever can grow in the northern climate, be stored for a year until new crops come out, and contain enough energy for you to do hard work. Typical examples are variations of yeasted and unyeasted bread and other forms of bakery, porridges, soups, inventive uses of potato, salted and smoked meat, and fresh, salted or smoked fish. The National dish is fårikål. Fårikål is lamb's meat and cabbage cooked for several hours in a casserole. However, the regional variances in traditional food are huge and hence, and what is thought to be "typical traditional" for one Norwegian might be totally unknown to another.
Finer traditional food is usually based on hunted animals or fresh fish. Steak, medallions and meat balls from game, deer, reindeer and elk are highly appreciated foods with international reputation, so are fresh, smoked and fermented salmon varieties as well as a host of other fish products. Traditional pastries like lukket valnøtt (marzipan-covered whipped cream cake) are other original contributions to international cuisine. Cheese of various types is common, but one particularly Norwegian favorite is geitost (goat-cheese), a mild smoked cheese which bears a remarkable similarity to smooth peanut butter in color, texture and taste.
Today, Norwegians use plenty of sliced bread for almost any meal except dinner, whereas recipes for hot meals will be taken from almost anywhere in the world, including of course the traditional kitchen, but seldom the most extreme examples.
Norwegians are also known for eating a lot of frozen pizza. Try the national frozen pizza "Grandiosa" or "Graendis"
Places to eat
Eating out is expensive, with fast food starting from 50 kr and sit-down meals in a decent restaurant nearly always topping 100 kr or more for a main course. One way to cut costs is self-catering, as youth hostels and guesthouses often have kitchens for their guests. Breakfast is often hearty and buffet-style, so pigging out at breakfast and skipping lunch is also an option. Buy/bring a lunchbox before attending breakfast, as most of the bigger hotels will allow you to fill it up for free from the breakfast buffet for eating later in the day.
For a cheap quick snack Norwegian-style, look no further than the nearest grill or convenience store, which will dish up a pølse sausage or kjempegrill hot dog in either a hot dog bun (brød) or wrapped in a flat potato bread (lompe) for around 20-30 kr. In addition to ketchup and mustard, optional toppings include pickled cucumber.
Whale anyone?
Yes, Norwegians eat whale. However, it's very seldom found in most ordinary restaurants, and chances are it might be overly expensive. Young Norwegians did not grow up with eating whale because of the moratium in the 1980's. Although whaling started up again in the early 1990's, whale is no longer a staple food as it once was in the coastal areas.
Vegetarians
Very few Norwegian cuisine restaurants have vegetarian meals on the menu, but will make something if asked, with varying success. Some of the few chains of stores/restaurants where you will always have a vegetarian option is Dolly Dimple's, SubWay and Esso/On the run (spinach panini).
Food safety
Food safety is very good in Norway. Salmonella is very rare compared to other countries, and health officials inspect restaurants at a regular basis. Also tap-water is usually very nice; Voss water from Vatnestrøm in Aust-Agder is actually exported abroad, including USA.
Drink
Norway is often described as a "dry" country, because alcohol is highly priced and glass of wine/beer in a restaurant is in the range of 60 kr (£6/$9/€9). When in cities/towns with many students (Oslo/Bergen/Trondheim in particular), you can very often find prices to be lower. Ask at your place of accomnodation or young people in the streets for hints and tips of where to go. Beer can be bought at the supermarkets, however wine and stronger alcoholic beverages have to be purchased in state owned liquor stores (Vinmonopolet). The price of alcohol, however does not stop the locals from having a good time. They are often found drinking and carrying on in local street parties and on their porches.
The high prices are most likely part of the reason why the tradition to hold vorspiel and nachspiel before going out is very popular in Norway. The words derives from german and can be translated into pre- and afterparty. If going out in the weekend, it is not unknown for norwegians to gather at a friends house and not leave there until after twelve in the evening. So if you've seen Norwegian drinking culture abroad, and are shocked by the empty bar/club at ten o'clock, call your Norwegian friend and ask where the vorspiel is. It's likely to be a whole lot of fun. However this is mostly true in weekends, during normal weekdays, you will often find Norwegians sitting in bars enjoying a couple of beers or a bottle of wine.
You must be at least 18 years old to purchase beer/wine and 20 years old to purchase spirits (alcohol levels of 22% and above) in Norway.
Technically, you're not allowed to drink in public. This law is very strict, and even encompasses your own balcony, if other people can see you! Luckily, the law is very seldom enforced (I've never heard of anyone being fined in their own balcony, for instance), and Norwegians indeed do drink in parks. There are calls for modifying the antiquated law, and recently, there has been a debate in media: most people seem to agree that drinking in parks is alright as long as people have a good time and remain peaceful. However, if you bother others and get too intoxicated or a policeman happens to be in a bad mood, you may be asked to throw away your alcohol, and in a worst-case scenario, fined. Drinking openly in the street is probably still considered somewhat rude, and it would be more likely to bring the police's attention than a picnic in a park, and is advised against. Having a glass of wine in an establishment that legally serves alcohol at the sidewalk, of course, is not a problem.
In Norway, all alcohol with a volume percentage of under 4,75% can be sold at regular shops. This means you can get decent beer all over the place. The price varies, but imported beer is usually expensive (except Danish/Dutch beers brewed in Norway on licence like Heineken and Carlsberg). Shopping hours for beer are very strict: The sale stops at 8 pm (20.00) every weekday, and at 6 pm (18.00) every day before holidays (incl sundays). This means the beer will have to be PAID before this time. If it's not paid, the person behind the counter will take your beer, and tell you "Sorry pal, too late!". On Sunday, you can't buy alcohol anywhere except bars/pubs/restaurants.
For strong beer, wine and hard alcohol, you will have to find a Vinmonopolet branch. The state shop have a marvellous choice of drinks, but at mostly sky-high prices. The general rule is that table wines are more expensive than in nearly any other country. Expect NOK 80-90 for a decent, "cheap" wine. However, as the taxation is based on the volume of alcohol per bottle rather than the initial cost, you can often find more exclusive wines at comparably lower prices than in private establishments in other countries. Vinmonpolet is open until 5 pm (17.00) Mon-Wed, 6 pm (18.00) Thu-Fri, and 3 pm (15.00) on Sat.
Traditional Norwegian "farm" food is made by whatever can grow in the northern climate, be stored for a year until new crops come out, and contain enough energy for you to do hard work. Typical examples are variations of yeasted and unyeasted bread and other forms of bakery, porridges, soups, inventive uses of potato, salted and smoked meat, and fresh, salted or smoked fish. The National dish is fårikål. Fårikål is lamb's meat and cabbage cooked for several hours in a casserole. However, the regional variances in traditional food are huge and hence, and what is thought to be "typical traditional" for one Norwegian might be totally unknown to another.
Finer traditional food is usually based on hunted animals or fresh fish. Steak, medallions and meat balls from game, deer, reindeer and elk are highly appreciated foods with international reputation, so are fresh, smoked and fermented salmon varieties as well as a host of other fish products. Traditional pastries like lukket valnøtt (marzipan-covered whipped cream cake) are other original contributions to international cuisine. Cheese of various types is common, but one particularly Norwegian favorite is geitost (goat-cheese), a mild smoked cheese which bears a remarkable similarity to smooth peanut butter in color, texture and taste.
Today, Norwegians use plenty of sliced bread for almost any meal except dinner, whereas recipes for hot meals will be taken from almost anywhere in the world, including of course the traditional kitchen, but seldom the most extreme examples.
Norwegians are also known for eating a lot of frozen pizza. Try the national frozen pizza "Grandiosa" or "Graendis"
Places to eat
Eating out is expensive, with fast food starting from 50 kr and sit-down meals in a decent restaurant nearly always topping 100 kr or more for a main course. One way to cut costs is self-catering, as youth hostels and guesthouses often have kitchens for their guests. Breakfast is often hearty and buffet-style, so pigging out at breakfast and skipping lunch is also an option. Buy/bring a lunchbox before attending breakfast, as most of the bigger hotels will allow you to fill it up for free from the breakfast buffet for eating later in the day.
For a cheap quick snack Norwegian-style, look no further than the nearest grill or convenience store, which will dish up a pølse sausage or kjempegrill hot dog in either a hot dog bun (brød) or wrapped in a flat potato bread (lompe) for around 20-30 kr. In addition to ketchup and mustard, optional toppings include pickled cucumber.
Whale anyone?
Yes, Norwegians eat whale. However, it's very seldom found in most ordinary restaurants, and chances are it might be overly expensive. Young Norwegians did not grow up with eating whale because of the moratium in the 1980's. Although whaling started up again in the early 1990's, whale is no longer a staple food as it once was in the coastal areas.
Vegetarians
Very few Norwegian cuisine restaurants have vegetarian meals on the menu, but will make something if asked, with varying success. Some of the few chains of stores/restaurants where you will always have a vegetarian option is Dolly Dimple's, SubWay and Esso/On the run (spinach panini).
Food safety
Food safety is very good in Norway. Salmonella is very rare compared to other countries, and health officials inspect restaurants at a regular basis. Also tap-water is usually very nice; Voss water from Vatnestrøm in Aust-Agder is actually exported abroad, including USA.
Drink
Norway is often described as a "dry" country, because alcohol is highly priced and glass of wine/beer in a restaurant is in the range of 60 kr (£6/$9/€9). When in cities/towns with many students (Oslo/Bergen/Trondheim in particular), you can very often find prices to be lower. Ask at your place of accomnodation or young people in the streets for hints and tips of where to go. Beer can be bought at the supermarkets, however wine and stronger alcoholic beverages have to be purchased in state owned liquor stores (Vinmonopolet). The price of alcohol, however does not stop the locals from having a good time. They are often found drinking and carrying on in local street parties and on their porches.
The high prices are most likely part of the reason why the tradition to hold vorspiel and nachspiel before going out is very popular in Norway. The words derives from german and can be translated into pre- and afterparty. If going out in the weekend, it is not unknown for norwegians to gather at a friends house and not leave there until after twelve in the evening. So if you've seen Norwegian drinking culture abroad, and are shocked by the empty bar/club at ten o'clock, call your Norwegian friend and ask where the vorspiel is. It's likely to be a whole lot of fun. However this is mostly true in weekends, during normal weekdays, you will often find Norwegians sitting in bars enjoying a couple of beers or a bottle of wine.
You must be at least 18 years old to purchase beer/wine and 20 years old to purchase spirits (alcohol levels of 22% and above) in Norway.
Technically, you're not allowed to drink in public. This law is very strict, and even encompasses your own balcony, if other people can see you! Luckily, the law is very seldom enforced (I've never heard of anyone being fined in their own balcony, for instance), and Norwegians indeed do drink in parks. There are calls for modifying the antiquated law, and recently, there has been a debate in media: most people seem to agree that drinking in parks is alright as long as people have a good time and remain peaceful. However, if you bother others and get too intoxicated or a policeman happens to be in a bad mood, you may be asked to throw away your alcohol, and in a worst-case scenario, fined. Drinking openly in the street is probably still considered somewhat rude, and it would be more likely to bring the police's attention than a picnic in a park, and is advised against. Having a glass of wine in an establishment that legally serves alcohol at the sidewalk, of course, is not a problem.
In Norway, all alcohol with a volume percentage of under 4,75% can be sold at regular shops. This means you can get decent beer all over the place. The price varies, but imported beer is usually expensive (except Danish/Dutch beers brewed in Norway on licence like Heineken and Carlsberg). Shopping hours for beer are very strict: The sale stops at 8 pm (20.00) every weekday, and at 6 pm (18.00) every day before holidays (incl sundays). This means the beer will have to be PAID before this time. If it's not paid, the person behind the counter will take your beer, and tell you "Sorry pal, too late!". On Sunday, you can't buy alcohol anywhere except bars/pubs/restaurants.
For strong beer, wine and hard alcohol, you will have to find a Vinmonopolet branch. The state shop have a marvellous choice of drinks, but at mostly sky-high prices. The general rule is that table wines are more expensive than in nearly any other country. Expect NOK 80-90 for a decent, "cheap" wine. However, as the taxation is based on the volume of alcohol per bottle rather than the initial cost, you can often find more exclusive wines at comparably lower prices than in private establishments in other countries. Vinmonpolet is open until 5 pm (17.00) Mon-Wed, 6 pm (18.00) Thu-Fri, and 3 pm (15.00) on Sat.
Norway - Driving and Public Transportation
EEA nationals are allowed to drive in Norway on the driving licence issued in their home country, for the period of its validity, but also have the option of exchanging their licence for a Norwegian one. The nationals of many other countries are allowed to use their own licence for up to a year, after which time they are required to apply for a Norwegian licence and will be required to take a test. For those who are not permanent residents of Norway, the Norwegian licence they are given will be valid for an initial four years.
Driving is on the right hand side of the road in Norway. Outside the city centres, traffic is often very light. Major and secondary roads are generally of a high standard, but some smaller rural roads may not be well-maintained, and can be dangerous in icy conditions. The road system is linked by many car ferries across the fjords. Tolls are payable on some roads.
It is compulsory under law to wear seat belts in the front seats of cars, and in the back seats where fitted. Dipped headlights are required at all times, even in daylight. The maximum blood/alcohol ratio is 0.5% and there are severe penalties for drink driving. The speed limits are 80 to 90 kph (around 50-60 mph) outside built-up areas and 50 kpm (around 30 mph) in built-up areas.
Domestic air travel is used a lot in Norway, due to the vast distances between cities and the icy conditions for much of the year. There are three main domestic airlines: SAS, Braathens and Widerøe Norsk Air, which serve around 50 airports throughout the country. Many discounted fares are available.
There are also long-distance bus services connecting every main city and some remote areas. Services are of a high standard and there is usually no need to pre-book tickets.
There is a well developed rail network with services operated by the Norwegian State Railway (NSB), but for cross-country travel this is geographically limited to four main regional lines from Oslo to Stavanger, Bergen, ÃâEUR¦ndalsnes and Bodø. Trains pass through some spectacular mountain and fjord scenery.
Many ferries, express boats and hydrofoils serve Norway's coastal towns and villages, even in the most remote areas. The 'Hurtigruten' ferry service leaves daily from Bergen for Kirkenes near the Russian border, calling at 35 ports en route and taking 11 days to reach its destination.
Within Norway's cities there are well developed public transport systems, and many residents do not own cars, which are very expensive in Norway. Oslo has an underground rail system and a tram system.
Driving is on the right hand side of the road in Norway. Outside the city centres, traffic is often very light. Major and secondary roads are generally of a high standard, but some smaller rural roads may not be well-maintained, and can be dangerous in icy conditions. The road system is linked by many car ferries across the fjords. Tolls are payable on some roads.
It is compulsory under law to wear seat belts in the front seats of cars, and in the back seats where fitted. Dipped headlights are required at all times, even in daylight. The maximum blood/alcohol ratio is 0.5% and there are severe penalties for drink driving. The speed limits are 80 to 90 kph (around 50-60 mph) outside built-up areas and 50 kpm (around 30 mph) in built-up areas.
Domestic air travel is used a lot in Norway, due to the vast distances between cities and the icy conditions for much of the year. There are three main domestic airlines: SAS, Braathens and Widerøe Norsk Air, which serve around 50 airports throughout the country. Many discounted fares are available.
There are also long-distance bus services connecting every main city and some remote areas. Services are of a high standard and there is usually no need to pre-book tickets.
There is a well developed rail network with services operated by the Norwegian State Railway (NSB), but for cross-country travel this is geographically limited to four main regional lines from Oslo to Stavanger, Bergen, ÃâEUR¦ndalsnes and Bodø. Trains pass through some spectacular mountain and fjord scenery.
Many ferries, express boats and hydrofoils serve Norway's coastal towns and villages, even in the most remote areas. The 'Hurtigruten' ferry service leaves daily from Bergen for Kirkenes near the Russian border, calling at 35 ports en route and taking 11 days to reach its destination.
Within Norway's cities there are well developed public transport systems, and many residents do not own cars, which are very expensive in Norway. Oslo has an underground rail system and a tram system.
Norway - Communications (Telephone, Post, Internet, TV, Radio)
You can register online for a telephone service from Telenor, Norway's national telecommunications company, but it can sometimes take up to three months for the line to be installed. Although overseas calls are expensive, fixed-line calls within Norway are relatively cheap, and special off-peak low rates apply between 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. Telephone bills are issued every three months.
There is internet access in most areas, with broadband facilities available in the main populated areas of the south. Wireless internet facilities are also available, but in some areas access is intermittent. There are many internet service providers.
Norway's mobile phone companies have roaming agreements with companies in other countries, so if covered by one of these you may be able to use your existing mobile phone in Norway. However, some types of phone issued abroad may not work in Norway.
Post Offices are widely available, and are generally open until 5 p.m. on weekdays and until 1 p.m. on Saturdays. It reportedly takes between two and four days for airmail to reach addresses within Europe.
Norway's national broadcaster, NRK, operates two TV channels: NRK-1 and NRK-2, while TV3 Norge operates a commercial channel. Many American TV programmes are shown here with Norwegian sub-titles. There are also many public and commercial radio stations.
Both cable and satellite TV are available in Norway. A digital terrestrial TV service is also being developed.
There is internet access in most areas, with broadband facilities available in the main populated areas of the south. Wireless internet facilities are also available, but in some areas access is intermittent. There are many internet service providers.
Norway's mobile phone companies have roaming agreements with companies in other countries, so if covered by one of these you may be able to use your existing mobile phone in Norway. However, some types of phone issued abroad may not work in Norway.
Post Offices are widely available, and are generally open until 5 p.m. on weekdays and until 1 p.m. on Saturdays. It reportedly takes between two and four days for airmail to reach addresses within Europe.
Norway's national broadcaster, NRK, operates two TV channels: NRK-1 and NRK-2, while TV3 Norge operates a commercial channel. Many American TV programmes are shown here with Norwegian sub-titles. There are also many public and commercial radio stations.
Both cable and satellite TV are available in Norway. A digital terrestrial TV service is also being developed.
Norway - Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water)
220 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are of the European round two-pin type.
When moving into a Norwegian home, you will usually find that the utilities have not been disconnected and you just need to have the electricity and water accounts transferred into your name. Electricity is the main form of energy used for heating in Norwegian homes.
Charges for electricity vary throughout the year. Utilities bills are usually sent out monthly and have giros attached, which you need to complete and submit along with your payment. Payment can be made at a bank, post office or by mail. It is also possible to pay your bills online if you use internet banking.
It is safe to drink the water straight from the tap in Norway.
When moving into a Norwegian home, you will usually find that the utilities have not been disconnected and you just need to have the electricity and water accounts transferred into your name. Electricity is the main form of energy used for heating in Norwegian homes.
Charges for electricity vary throughout the year. Utilities bills are usually sent out monthly and have giros attached, which you need to complete and submit along with your payment. Payment can be made at a bank, post office or by mail. It is also possible to pay your bills online if you use internet banking.
It is safe to drink the water straight from the tap in Norway.
Norway - Education and Schools
Education in Norway is compulsory from aged six to 16, and is provided in free of charge at primary and lower secondary level. Most Norwegian children attend public schools, but there are also a number of fee-paying private schools in Norway, normally based on specific religious beliefs or alternative methods of education.
Students who have completed ten years of education have the option of continuing for three further years of upper secondary education to obtain vocational qualifications or qualifications for entry to higher education. Higher education is available in universities and polytechnics, and higher education in Norway is open to students from other EEA countries, but they have to fund the education themselves or by means of a loan or grant.
The children of foreign nationals living in Norway are entitled to attend Norwegian schools free of charge, but education is in Norwegian. Most expatriates send their children to one of the international schools in Norway's main cities, which offer programmes of study leading to the International Baccalaureate or the British GCSE and A levels.
These include Oslo International School and the British International School of Stavanger, while Bergen, Kongsberg and Sandefjord also have international schools. There are also schools catering for specific nationalities, such as the French International School in Stavanger.
Some of the international schools offer pre-school education programmes.
Students who have completed ten years of education have the option of continuing for three further years of upper secondary education to obtain vocational qualifications or qualifications for entry to higher education. Higher education is available in universities and polytechnics, and higher education in Norway is open to students from other EEA countries, but they have to fund the education themselves or by means of a loan or grant.
The children of foreign nationals living in Norway are entitled to attend Norwegian schools free of charge, but education is in Norwegian. Most expatriates send their children to one of the international schools in Norway's main cities, which offer programmes of study leading to the International Baccalaureate or the British GCSE and A levels.
These include Oslo International School and the British International School of Stavanger, while Bergen, Kongsberg and Sandefjord also have international schools. There are also schools catering for specific nationalities, such as the French International School in Stavanger.
Some of the international schools offer pre-school education programmes.
Norway - Buying Property
Housing is extremely expensive in Norway, and prices are continuing to rise, with an average increase of 10% between 2005 and 2006. Oslo and the other main cities have the highest housing costs, while the rural areas offer more inexpensive accommodation, built to a good standard.
Although prices are high, Norwegian houses are generally built to a very high standard of construction and are well-insulated and heated. A high percentage of the Norwegian live in detached houses, and it can be quite difficult to find simple, inexpensive housing.
Details of properties for sale can be obtained from estate agents, local and regional newspapers and property websites. Some house-hunters also advertise their requirements in the newspaper themselves. Housing loans are available from Norwegian banks.
Estate agents normally charge a percentage of the purchase price as their fee. If an agent is not used when buying a house, the buyer is required to ask an authorised valuer to assess the value of the property. It will be important to check the land registry to ensure that there are no encumbrances on the property you wish to buy, and legal assistance should also be sought to help draw up the sales contract, if an estate agent is not used.
The Norwegian Association of Real Estate Agents has published a booklet in English which provides useful information on the house-buying process.
Although prices are high, Norwegian houses are generally built to a very high standard of construction and are well-insulated and heated. A high percentage of the Norwegian live in detached houses, and it can be quite difficult to find simple, inexpensive housing.
Details of properties for sale can be obtained from estate agents, local and regional newspapers and property websites. Some house-hunters also advertise their requirements in the newspaper themselves. Housing loans are available from Norwegian banks.
Estate agents normally charge a percentage of the purchase price as their fee. If an agent is not used when buying a house, the buyer is required to ask an authorised valuer to assess the value of the property. It will be important to check the land registry to ensure that there are no encumbrances on the property you wish to buy, and legal assistance should also be sought to help draw up the sales contract, if an estate agent is not used.
The Norwegian Association of Real Estate Agents has published a booklet in English which provides useful information on the house-buying process.
Norway - Renting Property
Most Norwegians own their homes, and the rental market is therefore very limited in Norway. It is very expensive to buy or to rent accommodation here. Rental prices start from around 4,500 kr just for a small room or studio flat, while prices for whole apartments or houses are much higher than this. However, it is possible to find slightly cheaper properties outside the city centres.
Some estate agencies also deal with rental properties, and private landlords sometimes advertise their properties in newspapers or websites. Alternatively, prospective tenants themselves sometimes advertise in the local or national press for a home to rent.
In Oslo, the evening newspaper Aftenposten Aften has details of rental accommodation in its classifieds section.
Tenancy agreements are normally valid for an initial one year, and subsequently for periods of five years with a termination notice period of three months on the part of the tenant or the landlord. On moving in, a security deposit of two or three months rent is usually payable by the tenant.
Within the cities there are higher levels of renting among Norwegians, and many live in housing co-operatives, in which rental and maintenance costs are shared. Oslo has an active Tenants' Association which protects the interests of tenants and provides legal services to those entering into tenancy agreements or taking legal action in relation to a tenancy.
Some estate agencies also deal with rental properties, and private landlords sometimes advertise their properties in newspapers or websites. Alternatively, prospective tenants themselves sometimes advertise in the local or national press for a home to rent.
In Oslo, the evening newspaper Aftenposten Aften has details of rental accommodation in its classifieds section.
Tenancy agreements are normally valid for an initial one year, and subsequently for periods of five years with a termination notice period of three months on the part of the tenant or the landlord. On moving in, a security deposit of two or three months rent is usually payable by the tenant.
Within the cities there are higher levels of renting among Norwegians, and many live in housing co-operatives, in which rental and maintenance costs are shared. Oslo has an active Tenants' Association which protects the interests of tenants and provides legal services to those entering into tenancy agreements or taking legal action in relation to a tenancy.
Norway - Employment
It is quite difficult for foreign nationals to secure employment in Norway, especially if they don't speak Norwegian. It has also been reported that Norwegian employers are often reluctant to hire foreign nationals. More generally, unemployment has been increasing in most sectors in recent years, so there is likely to be a great deal of competition for available vacancies.
Many expatriates working in Norway were brought in to do specialized work in the oil industry. Otherwise, most of the jobs that are available to non-Norwegians are casual, unskilled jobs in catering and hotels, or in areas such as nursing or teaching.
EU/EEA can use the Norwegian Public Employment Service (Aetat) website and local employment offices to assist them in their search for work in Norway. Aetat maintains the largest database of job vacancies in Norway, and most jobs advertised in the newspapers will also be found on this database. Jobseekers can also register their CV on the Aetat website for review by prospective employers. Aetat offers a telephone service providing information on vacancies throughout the country, which can be used from overseas on +47 80033166. Calls to this number from within Norway are free.
Job vacancies are also advertised in the biggest national newspaper 'Aftenposten' and in regional newspapers.
There are many private employment agencies in Norway but these mainly deal with temporary work vacancies, or those in particular sectors or professions. They often charge a fee for their services.
If you are lucky to secure a good job in Norway you are likely to be paid well, as salaries here are the 5th highest in the world, according to a 2005 survey. The terms and conditions of employment are also excellent, as Norway has extensive employment legislation and pay agreements. The normal working week for staff below senior managerial positions cannot exceed 40 hours, if longer hours are imposed on the employee they are entitled to overtime pay of at least 40% more than their usual salary rate.
Many expatriates working in Norway were brought in to do specialized work in the oil industry. Otherwise, most of the jobs that are available to non-Norwegians are casual, unskilled jobs in catering and hotels, or in areas such as nursing or teaching.
EU/EEA can use the Norwegian Public Employment Service (Aetat) website and local employment offices to assist them in their search for work in Norway. Aetat maintains the largest database of job vacancies in Norway, and most jobs advertised in the newspapers will also be found on this database. Jobseekers can also register their CV on the Aetat website for review by prospective employers. Aetat offers a telephone service providing information on vacancies throughout the country, which can be used from overseas on +47 80033166. Calls to this number from within Norway are free.
Job vacancies are also advertised in the biggest national newspaper 'Aftenposten' and in regional newspapers.
There are many private employment agencies in Norway but these mainly deal with temporary work vacancies, or those in particular sectors or professions. They often charge a fee for their services.
If you are lucky to secure a good job in Norway you are likely to be paid well, as salaries here are the 5th highest in the world, according to a 2005 survey. The terms and conditions of employment are also excellent, as Norway has extensive employment legislation and pay agreements. The normal working week for staff below senior managerial positions cannot exceed 40 hours, if longer hours are imposed on the employee they are entitled to overtime pay of at least 40% more than their usual salary rate.
Norway - Social Security
Norway has a very advanced social security system covering statutory sick pay, maternity pay, child benefit, pensions, unemployment, disability and other benefits.
Anyone who is working and paying tax in Norway, apart from employees of foreign states or inter-governmental organisations, is covered by the Social Insurance Scheme, and is eligible to claim benefits. Any dependents living with them in Norway are also entitled to the same benefits.
Anyone living in Norway on a residence permit for a year or more, even if they are not working, is also covered by the scheme.
7.8% of tax payments go to the social security scheme and are normally deducted direct from salaries.
Norway has reciprocal social security arrangements with EU/EEA countries which mean that social security contributions made in one country can be transferred to the other.
Anyone who is working and paying tax in Norway, apart from employees of foreign states or inter-governmental organisations, is covered by the Social Insurance Scheme, and is eligible to claim benefits. Any dependents living with them in Norway are also entitled to the same benefits.
Anyone living in Norway on a residence permit for a year or more, even if they are not working, is also covered by the scheme.
7.8% of tax payments go to the social security scheme and are normally deducted direct from salaries.
Norway has reciprocal social security arrangements with EU/EEA countries which mean that social security contributions made in one country can be transferred to the other.
Norway - Healthcare and Medical Treatment
Standards of healthcare and medical treatment are very high in Norway.
Anyone who is living and working in Norway is required to contribute through the income tax system to the Norwegian Social Insurance Scheme, which covers health insurance. They will be issued with a health card and are entitled to register with a GP on the 'Regular GP Scheme', or to choose another doctor.
Public health services are decentralised, and managed by regional health authorities. Most doctors in Norway can speak English. You are allowed to change GPs up to twice in a year, but must register the change with the social security office. There are also some private clinics and hospitals in Norway.
Most medical treatment is free of charge apart from a small non-refundable fee per consultation. The amount varies depending on whether the consultation was with a GP or a specialist, and whether or not the doctor is covered by an agreement such as the Regular GP Scheme, but is normally in the region of 100kr.
Charges are often payable for specialist treatment, although in-patient care and treatment in a public hospital is usually free of charge.
There are additional charges for medicines, although some treatments for chronic conditions are subsidized and the patient only pays around a third of the cost.
Many medicines which can be bought over the counter in other countries are only available on prescription in Norway.
Dental treatment is not free, except for children, the elderly and the disabled, for whom free public dental care is provided. Dental treatment can be very expensive in Norway.
Anyone who is living and working in Norway is required to contribute through the income tax system to the Norwegian Social Insurance Scheme, which covers health insurance. They will be issued with a health card and are entitled to register with a GP on the 'Regular GP Scheme', or to choose another doctor.
Public health services are decentralised, and managed by regional health authorities. Most doctors in Norway can speak English. You are allowed to change GPs up to twice in a year, but must register the change with the social security office. There are also some private clinics and hospitals in Norway.
Most medical treatment is free of charge apart from a small non-refundable fee per consultation. The amount varies depending on whether the consultation was with a GP or a specialist, and whether or not the doctor is covered by an agreement such as the Regular GP Scheme, but is normally in the region of 100kr.
Charges are often payable for specialist treatment, although in-patient care and treatment in a public hospital is usually free of charge.
There are additional charges for medicines, although some treatments for chronic conditions are subsidized and the patient only pays around a third of the cost.
Many medicines which can be bought over the counter in other countries are only available on prescription in Norway.
Dental treatment is not free, except for children, the elderly and the disabled, for whom free public dental care is provided. Dental treatment can be very expensive in Norway.
Norway - Business Culture
Norway's business culture is quite informal, and follows the egalitarian principles. People are expected to be modest about their own achievements, and to be polite and respectful towards others. There are equal opportunities in the workplace, and many women occupy senior business positions.
It is acceptable to make direct approaches to businesses in Norway, and unnecessary to arrange introductions through a third party. You should make appointments in advance, but try to avoid the main holiday times of July, August, Christmas and Easter. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. Business attire is conservative and smart, with formal suits and times for men, and stylish, modest suits or dresses for women. You should be on time for your appointment, as meetings generally start and finish punctually.
The usual form of business greeting is a firm handshake, with good eye contact and a smile. People should initially be addressed using their personal title (Herr or Fru) and their family name, although it is normal to move quite quickly onto first name terms. Business cards are exchanged following initial greetings.
Meetings are usually informal, but structured using an agenda. There is not much small talk, as Norwegians prefer to get down to business quickly. Their communication styles are honest and frank, and they will point out any weaknesses or difficulties, even in relation to their own proposals. They like presentations to be well-structured and factually accurate, with lots of data and charts, but tend to be wary of new ideas or approaches. Since it is considered rude in Norway to interrupt anyone who is speaking, allow time at the end for questions.
Once agreements are made, they are implemented quickly and are regarded as final. Frequent follow-up meetings are not necessary - Norwegians are happy to conduct business via the phone or email, to save time.
Gift giving is not normal practice in the business setting, and may be interpreted as a bribe. It is fairly uncommon to be invited to dine at a Norwegian home since Norwegians like to keep their private and business lives separate. If you are invited home, take a small gift such as flowers or chocolates. If dining with Norwegian business colleagues, you will be expected to join them in the traditional "Skaal!" toast, raising your glass to the host.
It is acceptable to make direct approaches to businesses in Norway, and unnecessary to arrange introductions through a third party. You should make appointments in advance, but try to avoid the main holiday times of July, August, Christmas and Easter. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. Business attire is conservative and smart, with formal suits and times for men, and stylish, modest suits or dresses for women. You should be on time for your appointment, as meetings generally start and finish punctually.
The usual form of business greeting is a firm handshake, with good eye contact and a smile. People should initially be addressed using their personal title (Herr or Fru) and their family name, although it is normal to move quite quickly onto first name terms. Business cards are exchanged following initial greetings.
Meetings are usually informal, but structured using an agenda. There is not much small talk, as Norwegians prefer to get down to business quickly. Their communication styles are honest and frank, and they will point out any weaknesses or difficulties, even in relation to their own proposals. They like presentations to be well-structured and factually accurate, with lots of data and charts, but tend to be wary of new ideas or approaches. Since it is considered rude in Norway to interrupt anyone who is speaking, allow time at the end for questions.
Once agreements are made, they are implemented quickly and are regarded as final. Frequent follow-up meetings are not necessary - Norwegians are happy to conduct business via the phone or email, to save time.
Gift giving is not normal practice in the business setting, and may be interpreted as a bribe. It is fairly uncommon to be invited to dine at a Norwegian home since Norwegians like to keep their private and business lives separate. If you are invited home, take a small gift such as flowers or chocolates. If dining with Norwegian business colleagues, you will be expected to join them in the traditional "Skaal!" toast, raising your glass to the host.
Norway - Insurance
Health insurance abroad is essential for any expat. In addition to expat healthcare insurance rates, insurance providers or online insurance comparison sites can provide life assurance quotes and auto insurance rates to provide you with overseas coverage. However, remember that cheap insurance may not represent the best value for money if you need to make a claim - as an expat you may require specialist expatriate insurance cover abroad.
Norway - Taxation
Norway has relatively high rates of direct and indirect taxation, which are used to fund a range of public and social services, and to cover the cost of subsidizing certain foods and other goods. Direct taxes include income tax and property tax. Indirect taxes include VAT, which is levied at a rate of between 12 and 25% on most goods and services.
Income tax is normally deducted direct from employees' salaries by their employers, and includes a social security contribution. Employers also contribute to the social security fund on behalf of their employees.
If you are going to work in Norway, you will be required to register as a taxpayer by taking your employment contract and passport to the local tax office and completing the form 'Application for tax-card for foreign citizens.' Your employer must be presented with this card when you start work, otherwise you will initially have 50% of your income deducted as tax, and reimbursed the following year.
Tax is payable on the current year's income, based on an estimate of liability. Everyone is required to complete an annual tax return. Tax rates depend on level of income and any allowances, but usually around a third of gross pay is payable in tax.
There are special arrangements for people who are working in Norway for less than six months, details of which can be obtained from the tax office. Additionally, foreign nationals who are living and working in Norway for less than four years may be entitled to a tax-free allowance of 15%.
Norway has Double Taxation treaties with a number of other EU/EEA countries, which mean that tax paid in one country can be offset against any tax payable in the other.
Income tax is normally deducted direct from employees' salaries by their employers, and includes a social security contribution. Employers also contribute to the social security fund on behalf of their employees.
If you are going to work in Norway, you will be required to register as a taxpayer by taking your employment contract and passport to the local tax office and completing the form 'Application for tax-card for foreign citizens.' Your employer must be presented with this card when you start work, otherwise you will initially have 50% of your income deducted as tax, and reimbursed the following year.
Tax is payable on the current year's income, based on an estimate of liability. Everyone is required to complete an annual tax return. Tax rates depend on level of income and any allowances, but usually around a third of gross pay is payable in tax.
There are special arrangements for people who are working in Norway for less than six months, details of which can be obtained from the tax office. Additionally, foreign nationals who are living and working in Norway for less than four years may be entitled to a tax-free allowance of 15%.
Norway has Double Taxation treaties with a number of other EU/EEA countries, which mean that tax paid in one country can be offset against any tax payable in the other.
Norway - Banking
There are two main types of bank in Norway: savings banks and commercial banks, both of which now offer a similar range of personal banking services. Many offer internet banking facilities, and there are several online banks which have no branches.
Bank opening hours vary but are generally from 8 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. on Mondays to Fridays.
ATMs (called 'Minibank') are widely available in all cities and towns for cash withdrawals and other services. Most of these accept international credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa for cash withdrawals, and some allow withdrawals of cash in other European currencies. There are ATMs located in shops and petrol stations which allow cash withdrawals using the Bank Axept debit card, available from Norwegian banks.
If you are going to be working in Norway you will be required to open a bank account there so that your salary can be paid straight into your account. To open an account, you will need a Norwegian identity number and you may also be asked to show your passport and evidence of employment.
Bank giros and post giros are commonly used in Norway for the purpose of transferring funds electronically between banks and post office accounts. Utilities bills, for example, have a giro attached which should be used when making payment if internet banking facilities are not used for this purpose. Mail Giros (Brevgiros) are also available, which can be used for the payment of bills by post.
Most major credit cards are accepted in Norway in hotels, restaurants and other major establishments, but supermarkets and other retailers often only accept Norwegian-issued cards.
Norwegian krone can be brought into and taken out of the country up to a maximum limit of 25,000kr. There are no restrictions on the export of foreign currency from Norway, but evidence must be shown that it was previously imported or converted from a currency other than krone.
Bank opening hours vary but are generally from 8 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. on Mondays to Fridays.
ATMs (called 'Minibank') are widely available in all cities and towns for cash withdrawals and other services. Most of these accept international credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa for cash withdrawals, and some allow withdrawals of cash in other European currencies. There are ATMs located in shops and petrol stations which allow cash withdrawals using the Bank Axept debit card, available from Norwegian banks.
If you are going to be working in Norway you will be required to open a bank account there so that your salary can be paid straight into your account. To open an account, you will need a Norwegian identity number and you may also be asked to show your passport and evidence of employment.
Bank giros and post giros are commonly used in Norway for the purpose of transferring funds electronically between banks and post office accounts. Utilities bills, for example, have a giro attached which should be used when making payment if internet banking facilities are not used for this purpose. Mail Giros (Brevgiros) are also available, which can be used for the payment of bills by post.
Most major credit cards are accepted in Norway in hotels, restaurants and other major establishments, but supermarkets and other retailers often only accept Norwegian-issued cards.
Norwegian krone can be brought into and taken out of the country up to a maximum limit of 25,000kr. There are no restrictions on the export of foreign currency from Norway, but evidence must be shown that it was previously imported or converted from a currency other than krone.
Norway - Currency and Cost of Living
The Norwegian unit of currency is the Norwegian krone (NOK or kr), made up of 100 ore.
Notes are issued in denominations of 1000kr, 500kr, 200kr, 100kr and 50kr, and coins in denominations of 20kr, 10kr, 5kr, 1kr, and 50 ore.
As at June 2006, 1kr is equivalent to EUR0.13, GBP0.09 and US$0.16.
The cost of living in Norway is extremely high, and it was rated the second most expensive country in which to live in a 2006 Quality of Life Index, compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit). It is the most expensive European country in which to live.
Housing, transport and restaurant costs are very high, and groceries are also costly. Alcohol and tobacco prices are particularly expensive.
Typical prices include:
1 litre of milk 10kr
1 kg apples 25kr
6 eggs 15kr
1 kg cheese 70kr
Small bottle of beer 50kr
Glass of wine in restaurant 60kr
Fast food meal (per person) 50kr upwards
Expensive restaurant meal (per person) 200-300kr
Monthly groceries and household items for family of 4 9,000kr
Tips are not expected in restaurants as a service charge is normally included in the price. However, it is normal practice to leave a few krone for particularly good service.
Notes are issued in denominations of 1000kr, 500kr, 200kr, 100kr and 50kr, and coins in denominations of 20kr, 10kr, 5kr, 1kr, and 50 ore.
As at June 2006, 1kr is equivalent to EUR0.13, GBP0.09 and US$0.16.
The cost of living in Norway is extremely high, and it was rated the second most expensive country in which to live in a 2006 Quality of Life Index, compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit). It is the most expensive European country in which to live.
Housing, transport and restaurant costs are very high, and groceries are also costly. Alcohol and tobacco prices are particularly expensive.
Typical prices include:
1 litre of milk 10kr
1 kg apples 25kr
6 eggs 15kr
1 kg cheese 70kr
Small bottle of beer 50kr
Glass of wine in restaurant 60kr
Fast food meal (per person) 50kr upwards
Expensive restaurant meal (per person) 200-300kr
Monthly groceries and household items for family of 4 9,000kr
Tips are not expected in restaurants as a service charge is normally included in the price. However, it is normal practice to leave a few krone for particularly good service.
Norway - Visas, Residency, Immigration & Documentation
Visas
All foreign nationals are required to hold a valid travel document to enter Norway. In the case of EEA nationals, a national Identity card is usually sufficient, while other nationals must hold a passport which is valid for at least three months beyond their planned length of stay in Norway, and may also require a visa. Details of the countries whose nationals do not require a visa to enter Norway for periods of less than three months can be found on the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration website.
Work Permits
With the exception of the citizens of other Scandinavian countries, all foreign nationals are required to obtain a work permit in order to take up employment in Norway. EEA citizens are allowed to enter Norway to seek employment for a period of up to six months, provided they can show evidence of sufficient funds to cover the cost of their stay, and can apply for a work permit from the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) from within the country. Other nationals must apply for a work permit from the Norwegian Embassy or Consulate in their country of origin before entering Norway to take up employment, unless they already hold a visa, residence or work permit to live in Norway for at least three months, or a short-term jobseekers visa. Alternatively, the employer in Norway can apply for the work permit on behalf of the applicant.
Different types of work permits are issued to people in different occupational groups, and are normally issued in accordance with strict quotas and skills/qualification requirements. If offering a job to a non-EEA national, the employer will be required to confirm that the post cannot be filled by a suitably qualified Norwegian or other EEA national.
Residence Permits
All foreign nationals who plan to live in Norway for a period exceeding three months must apply for a residence permit. EU/EEA nationals can apply for this within Norway, by application to the police in the area where they plan to live. They must submit their passport or other travel document used to enter the country, along with the relevant application form. Other foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit from the Norwegian embassy or consulate in their home country, or another country where they have been legally resident for six months or more, and are not allowed to enter Norway until their application is approved.
Registration
Anyone arriving in Norway to live or work there for more than three months is required to obtain a personal ID number (or provisional 'D' number if staying for less than 6 months) from the National Registry office in their area of residence in Norway. This will be required in order to access health services, open a bank account etc. It normally takes up to six weeks to process applications.
Settlement Permits
Foreign nationals who have lived in Norway for at least three consecutive years on a valid residence permit or work permit, can apply for a Settlement Permit which entitles them to live and work in Norway indefinitely. Applicants for Settlement Permits are required to attend at least 250 hours of Norwegian Language training, and at least 50 hours of Social Studies instruction.
Citizenship
Applicants for Norwegian citizenship must be over 18, have lived in Norway for at least seven consecutive years, and have a record of good conduct. They are required to attend at least 300 hours of Norwegian language training, unless they have documentary evidence of proficiency in either Norwegian or Sami.
Full details of immigration, work and residence permit and settlement procedures are provided on the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration website.
All foreign nationals are required to hold a valid travel document to enter Norway. In the case of EEA nationals, a national Identity card is usually sufficient, while other nationals must hold a passport which is valid for at least three months beyond their planned length of stay in Norway, and may also require a visa. Details of the countries whose nationals do not require a visa to enter Norway for periods of less than three months can be found on the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration website.
Work Permits
With the exception of the citizens of other Scandinavian countries, all foreign nationals are required to obtain a work permit in order to take up employment in Norway. EEA citizens are allowed to enter Norway to seek employment for a period of up to six months, provided they can show evidence of sufficient funds to cover the cost of their stay, and can apply for a work permit from the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) from within the country. Other nationals must apply for a work permit from the Norwegian Embassy or Consulate in their country of origin before entering Norway to take up employment, unless they already hold a visa, residence or work permit to live in Norway for at least three months, or a short-term jobseekers visa. Alternatively, the employer in Norway can apply for the work permit on behalf of the applicant.
Different types of work permits are issued to people in different occupational groups, and are normally issued in accordance with strict quotas and skills/qualification requirements. If offering a job to a non-EEA national, the employer will be required to confirm that the post cannot be filled by a suitably qualified Norwegian or other EEA national.
Residence Permits
All foreign nationals who plan to live in Norway for a period exceeding three months must apply for a residence permit. EU/EEA nationals can apply for this within Norway, by application to the police in the area where they plan to live. They must submit their passport or other travel document used to enter the country, along with the relevant application form. Other foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit from the Norwegian embassy or consulate in their home country, or another country where they have been legally resident for six months or more, and are not allowed to enter Norway until their application is approved.
Registration
Anyone arriving in Norway to live or work there for more than three months is required to obtain a personal ID number (or provisional 'D' number if staying for less than 6 months) from the National Registry office in their area of residence in Norway. This will be required in order to access health services, open a bank account etc. It normally takes up to six weeks to process applications.
Settlement Permits
Foreign nationals who have lived in Norway for at least three consecutive years on a valid residence permit or work permit, can apply for a Settlement Permit which entitles them to live and work in Norway indefinitely. Applicants for Settlement Permits are required to attend at least 250 hours of Norwegian Language training, and at least 50 hours of Social Studies instruction.
Citizenship
Applicants for Norwegian citizenship must be over 18, have lived in Norway for at least seven consecutive years, and have a record of good conduct. They are required to attend at least 300 hours of Norwegian language training, unless they have documentary evidence of proficiency in either Norwegian or Sami.
Full details of immigration, work and residence permit and settlement procedures are provided on the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration website.
Norway - Speaking the Language
There are three official languages in Norway: Bokmål and Nynorsk, which are very similar and most widely spoken, and Sami, spoken by the Sami ethnic minority people in the far north. Bokmål, also often called Norwegian, is spoken by the majority of the population, especially in the cities, and is the main language used in education and the media.
English is widely spoken in Norway, especially by younger people. However, it is almost essential to be able to speak Norwegian if you are going to live and work in Norway.
English is widely spoken in Norway, especially by younger people. However, it is almost essential to be able to speak Norwegian if you are going to live and work in Norway.
Norway - Getting There
Norway's main international airport is at Oslo, but there are also international airports at Bergen, Stavanger and Trondheim. SAS Braathens is the national airline, operating flights to most major European cities, the USA and some Asian destinations. The Norwegian airline also operates routes to many European cities.
Approximate flight times are three hours between Oslo and London, eleven hours between Oslo and New York, and three hours between Bergen and London.
There are rail connections from Oslo to Stockholm and Copenhagen, and ferry routes to Norway's main ports of Oslo, Bergen, Kristiansand and Stavanger from Denmark, Sweden, Iceland and the UK.
Most of the road routes into Norway are in the far north of the country, from Finland, Sweden and Russia.
Approximate flight times are three hours between Oslo and London, eleven hours between Oslo and New York, and three hours between Bergen and London.
There are rail connections from Oslo to Stockholm and Copenhagen, and ferry routes to Norway's main ports of Oslo, Bergen, Kristiansand and Stavanger from Denmark, Sweden, Iceland and the UK.
Most of the road routes into Norway are in the far north of the country, from Finland, Sweden and Russia.
Norway - Climate and Weather
Despite its northerly latitude, Norway's coastal areas enjoy a temperate climate due to the influence of the Gulf Stream, and its ports are ice-free all year-round. There are high levels of rainfall throughout the year on the coast.
Inland, the climate is more extreme, with colder winters and warmer summers. There is frequent snowfall during the winter months, and glaciers cover much of the interior throughout the year.
Average temperatures in July are around 16 degrees C in Oslo and 11 degrees C in the far north, while average January temperatures are 1 degrees C in the south and -3 degrees C in the north. However, summer temperatures can increase to around 30 degrees C and winter temperatures can fall to below -25 degrees C anywhere in the country, particularly inland.
Inland, the climate is more extreme, with colder winters and warmer summers. There is frequent snowfall during the winter months, and glaciers cover much of the interior throughout the year.
Average temperatures in July are around 16 degrees C in Oslo and 11 degrees C in the far north, while average January temperatures are 1 degrees C in the south and -3 degrees C in the north. However, summer temperatures can increase to around 30 degrees C and winter temperatures can fall to below -25 degrees C anywhere in the country, particularly inland.
Norway - Overview
Capital: Oslo
Population: 4,610,820 (July 2006 est.)
Languages: Bokmal Norwegian (official), Nynorsk Norwegian (official), small Sami- and Finnish-speaking minorities; note - Sami is official in six municipalities
Religions: Church of Norway 85.7%, Pentecostal 1%, Roman Catholic 1%, other Christian 2.4%, Muslim 1.8%, other 8.1% (2004)
Currency: Norwegian krone (NOK)
Timezone: GMT+1 (Daylight saving time: +1 hour)
Norway is located in northern Europe, on the western side of the peninsula of Scandinavia, bordering Sweden, Finland and Russia. It has a coastline of some 2735 km. Norway is renowned for the natural beauty of its many coastal fjords, many of which exceed 100 km in length, and its inland scenery of mountains, forests, rivers and lakes. The country is relatively sparsely populated and there are vast areas of unspoilt countryside, most of which are legally accessible to the public, even if privately owned. The main centres of population are in the south.
Norway's economy used to be dependent on the fishing industry, but it has now become a major exporter of fuel and fuel products, due to the discovery in the 1960s of offshore gas and oil reserves. The majority of expatriates living in Norway are employed in the oil industry. Norway is one of the most expensive countries in which to live, but it offers one of the highest standards of living in the world, and has a low crime rate.
Although located in Europe, Norway has not joined the European Union. However, it is a member of the European Economic Association, and is therefore covered by the EU/EEA Freedom of Movement legislation.
Norway's capital of Oslo is located at the head of a long fjord in the south-east of the country. Although a small city, with a population of just over 500,000, Oslo has become a bustling centre with a good range of shops, theatres, restaurants and bars. Bergen and Stavanger, on the south-west coast, are also lively cities with large expatriate communities mainly employed in the oil industry.
Population: 4,610,820 (July 2006 est.)
Languages: Bokmal Norwegian (official), Nynorsk Norwegian (official), small Sami- and Finnish-speaking minorities; note - Sami is official in six municipalities
Religions: Church of Norway 85.7%, Pentecostal 1%, Roman Catholic 1%, other Christian 2.4%, Muslim 1.8%, other 8.1% (2004)
Currency: Norwegian krone (NOK)
Timezone: GMT+1 (Daylight saving time: +1 hour)
Norway is located in northern Europe, on the western side of the peninsula of Scandinavia, bordering Sweden, Finland and Russia. It has a coastline of some 2735 km. Norway is renowned for the natural beauty of its many coastal fjords, many of which exceed 100 km in length, and its inland scenery of mountains, forests, rivers and lakes. The country is relatively sparsely populated and there are vast areas of unspoilt countryside, most of which are legally accessible to the public, even if privately owned. The main centres of population are in the south.
Norway's economy used to be dependent on the fishing industry, but it has now become a major exporter of fuel and fuel products, due to the discovery in the 1960s of offshore gas and oil reserves. The majority of expatriates living in Norway are employed in the oil industry. Norway is one of the most expensive countries in which to live, but it offers one of the highest standards of living in the world, and has a low crime rate.
Although located in Europe, Norway has not joined the European Union. However, it is a member of the European Economic Association, and is therefore covered by the EU/EEA Freedom of Movement legislation.
Norway's capital of Oslo is located at the head of a long fjord in the south-east of the country. Although a small city, with a population of just over 500,000, Oslo has become a bustling centre with a good range of shops, theatres, restaurants and bars. Bergen and Stavanger, on the south-west coast, are also lively cities with large expatriate communities mainly employed in the oil industry.
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