Settling in Norway: A Comprehensive Guide
Welcome to Norway! Moving to a new country can be an exciting but challenging experience. Here are some key steps to help you get settled:
1. Register with the Authorities
Register Your Address
- Where to Register: Visit the local tax office (Skatteetaten) or the nearest Service Centre for Foreign Workers (SUA). For Oslo, you can go to SUA Oslo; other cities have their own offices.
- Documents Needed:
- Passport or national ID card (if you are from an EU/EEA country)
- Employment contract or proof of enrolment in an educational institution
- Rental agreement or proof of accommodation
- Completed registration form (you can find this on the Skatteetaten website)
- Importance: Registering your address is critical for being recognized as a resident, receiving your personnummer, and accessing public services. Without registration, you cannot open a bank account or receive healthcare services.
Obtain a National Identity Number
- Process: After registering your address, you will receive a letter with your national identity number. This number is your key to many services in Norway.
- Uses: It is required for:
- Opening a bank account
- Registering with a GP
- Signing contracts (e.g., mobile phone, internet, housing)
- Receiving a salary from your employer
2. Set Up Your Finances
Open a Bank Account
- Choosing a Bank: Research different banks to find one that suits your needs. Some popular options include:
- DNB: Norway’s largest bank with extensive services
- Nordea: Offers a range of personal and business banking services
- SpareBank 1: A network of savings banks
- Documents Required:
- Passport or national ID card
- National identity number
- Proof of address (rental agreement or utility bill)
- Employment contract or proof of income
- Banking Services:
- Current account (Brukskonto): For daily transactions
- Savings account (Sparekonto): For saving money
- Online banking and mobile apps: For easy access and management of your finances
Arrange for Necessary Insurances
- Health Insurance: The public healthcare system covers most health services. However, you may consider additional private health insurance for:
- Dental care
- Physiotherapy
- Specialist consultations not covered by public healthcare
- Home Insurance:
- Contents insurance (Innboforsikring): Covers your personal belongings against theft, fire, and water damage
- Building insurance (Husforsikring): If you own your home, this covers the structure against damage
- Travel Insurance: Coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage during travels outside Norway
3. Understand the Healthcare System
Register with a GP (Fastlege)
- How to Register: Visit the Helsenorge website (Helsenorge.no) and use your national identity number to log in and select your preferred GP from the list of available doctors in your area.
- Benefits: Your GP (fastlege) will:
- Be your primary contact for medical issues
- Provide referrals to specialists
- Maintain your medical records
Get Familiar with the Norwegian Health System
- Public Healthcare:
- Services are mostly funded through taxes
- Patients pay a small fee for consultations and prescriptions
- Children under 16 and pregnant women receive free services
- Emergency Services:
- Dial 113 for medical emergencies
- Emergency rooms (Legevakt) are available for urgent care
- Pharmacies (Apotek): Prescription and over-the-counter medications, health and wellness products
4. Learn the Language
Enroll in Norwegian Language Classes
- Inlearn.no: A reputable institute offering comprehensive Norwegian language courses tailored to different levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Online courses and flexible schedules
- Focus on practical language skills and cultural understanding
- Other Options:
- Local adult education centers (Voksenopplæring)
- Community colleges (Folk high schools)
- University language programs
Practice Regularly
- Language Apps:
- Duolingo: Interactive and gamified language learning
- Babbel: Structured lessons focusing on conversation
- Memrise: Vocabulary building with spaced repetition
- Local Practice:
- Language cafes (Språkkafe): Informal settings where you can practice speaking with locals
- Conversation groups: Join or start groups focusing on language practice
- Volunteer opportunities: Engage with the community while practicing Norwegian
5. Find Housing
Renting or Buying a Home
- Resources:
- Finn.no: Comprehensive listings for rentals and properties for sale
- Hybel.no: Specialized in student and shared housing
- Real Estate Agents: Consider hiring a real estate agent (Eiendomsmegler) to help you navigate the housing market and handle negotiations.
Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities
- Tenancy Laws:
- Deposit (Depositum): Typically 2-3 months’ rent, held in a separate account
- Notice period (Oppsigelsestid): Usually 3 months, but it can vary
- Maintenance responsibilities: Tenants must maintain the property in good condition; landlords are responsible for major repairs
- Homeownership:
- Buying process: Involves a bidding process and thorough property inspections
- Costs: Be aware of additional costs such as property tax (Eiendomsskatt) and common charges for shared buildings (Felleskostnader)
