6. Get Around
Public Transport
- Travel Cards:
- Reisekort: Reloadable cards for buses, trams, and trains
- Monthly passes: Offer unlimited travel within specific zones
- Apps:
- Ruter (Oslo): Plan routes, check schedules, and purchase tickets
- Skyss (Bergen): Similar services for the Bergen area
- Cycling: Many cities have bike-sharing programs and dedicated cycling lanes.
Driving License
- Validity:
- EU/EEA licenses: Generally valid in Norway; can be exchanged for a Norwegian license
- Non-EU/EEA licenses: May require a driving test and additional documentation
- Requirements: Visit Statens vegvesen (Norwegian Public Roads Administration) for detailed information and ensure your vehicle meets Norwegian safety and environmental standards
7. Employment and Education
Understand the Job Market
- Job Listings:
- NAV.no: Official job portal with numerous listings
- Finn.no: Extensive job listings across various industries
- LinkedIn: Professional networking and job search
- Networking:
- Industry events: Conferences, seminars, and meetups
- Professional networks: Join organizations related to your field
Enroll Children in School
- Contact the Municipality:
- Each municipality (Kommune) has a school administration office to guide you through the enrollment process
- Required documents: Birth certificate, previous school records, and proof of residence
- International Schools: Oslo International School, Bergen International School, and other cities offer international curriculums
8. Get to Know Your Community
Join Local Groups and Clubs
Joining local groups and engaging in cultural events can help you integrate faster. Speaking Norwegian will also make socializing easier—our Norwegian language courses offer practical learning to help you connect with locals.
- Community Centers:
- Offer various activities such as sports, arts, and social events
- Great way to meet people and integrate into the community
- Online Platforms:
- Meetup: Find groups with similar interests
- Facebook groups: Local community and expat groups
Learn About Local Customs and Traditions
- Cultural Events:
- National Day (17th of May): Parades, traditional costumes, and celebrations
- Christmas Markets: Festive markets with local crafts and foods
- Seasonal Festivals: Such as Midsummer and various local festivals
- Reading and Media:
- Books and newspapers: Read local literature and news to gain insights into Norwegian culture
- TV shows and movies: Watch Norwegian productions to improve language skills and cultural understanding
9. Manage Daily Life
Set Up Utilities and Internet
- Providers:
- Internet and TV: Telenor, Telia, Altibox
- Electricity: Contact local providers or use websites like Strømpris.no to compare prices
- Water and Heating: Usually managed by the municipality or housing association
- Setup Process: Contact providers to set up accounts and services and provide your national identity number and proof of address
Explore Shopping Options
- Grocery Stores:
- Rema 1000, Coop, Kiwi, and Meny: Major supermarket chains
- Specialty stores: International food stores for specific ingredients
- Shopping Tips:
- Sundays: Most stores are closed, so plan your shopping accordingly
- Discount days: Look for special offers and discount days to save money
10. Stay Informed
Keep Up with Local News
- News Sources:
- NRK: National broadcaster with news and entertainment
- Aftenposten: Major newspaper with comprehensive coverage
- VG: Popular tabloid with up-to-date news
- Language Practice: Reading news in Norwegian helps improve language skills and stay informed about local events
Understand Your Legal Rights and Obligations
- Legal Aid:
- Seek assistance from local legal aid services (Rettshjelp) for any legal issues or questions about your rights.
- Government Resources: Use government websites like UDI.no for information on residency and immigration regulations
