When planning a move, it is important to use official and trustworthy sources. Unfortunately, false or outdated information can easily spread online and on social media.

We recommend using official websites and guides when you need information about rules, rights and obligations in Norway.

Useful official sources include:

Norge.no

Norden.org

New in Norway

When you live in Norway, you may come into contact with several public authorities and services, for example:

• UDI – immigration and residence permits
• The Police – identity checks and registration
• Skatteetaten (Tax Administration) – tax, ID numbers and registration
• NAV – work, benefits and welfare services
• Altinn – a platform for all the formal documents and dialogue concerning your taxes and the personal information
• Helsenorge – health services, prescriptions and choosing a general practitioner

Each one has a specific role, and their websites explain what applies to your situation.

When arriving in Norway, you may need to:

• Register your move
• Report a change of address
• Register with the tax authorities
• Learn what applies if you bring household goods, pets or vehicles

Most people who live and work in Norway must pay taxes and keep their information up to date. Guidance is available on the website of Skatteetaten.

Norway uses two types of identification numbers:

• A D-number is a temporary ID number for people staying in Norway short-term
• A national ID number (fødselsnummer) is a permanent ID number for long-term residents

You will need either a D-number or a national ID number to:

• Open a bank account
• Get a general practitioner (fastlege)
• Access digital public services such as Helsenorge and Altinn

Opening your first Norwegian bank account is an important step. For a first account, you should expect up to four weeks of processing time. When choosing a bank, the bank will guide you through:

• Opening an account
• Getting access to online banking
• Ordering a PIN code generator

Once you have access to online banking, you can usually order BankID, which is a secure digital ID widely used in Norway.

Norway is largely a cashless society. Most bank cards allow contactless payment, and for small purchases you usually do not need to enter a PIN code.

Vipps is the most commonly used mobile payment service in Norway. To use Vipps, you need a Norwegian bank account and a Norwegian phone number.

Tips for choosing a bank:

• Check if online banking and apps are in English
• Compare fees and processing times
• Ask if documents can be submitted in person
• Consider additional services like insurance, investments, or pensions

Finansportalen compares prices for banks, insurance, and investment services.

After opening a bank account:

• Set up BankID and BankID on mobile
• Share your account number with your employer and the tax authorities
• Use digital payment services for subscriptions, public transport, and automatic bill payments
• Set up automatic payments (eGiro, eFaktura) for services like electricity, insurance, and other recurring expenses.

You can go to Nordic.org for an introduction to bank services and opening an account in Norway.

Norway uses digital solutions for most public services.

Common types of electronic ID (eID):

• BankID – the most widely used and highest security level
• MinID – medium security, can be used with a D-number
• Buypass or Commfides – alternatives if BankID is not available

With a digital ID, you can:

• Log in to public services
• Apply for services and benefits
• Receive mail from authorities through digital mailboxes, such as Digipost or eBoks

When logging in to public services, you will often see ID-porten, which is the log-in page where you choose your eID.

A Norwegian phone number makes it easier to use services, contact employers and stay connected.

Temporary solutions are available. You can buy a pre-paid SIM card at convenience stores or mobile phone shops. All you need is a valid passport or ID. Some providers also offer temporary SIM cards before you receive a national ID number.

When you later choose a mobile subscription, providers will check your credit history. This usually requires a Norwegian bank account.

When you have your Norwegian ID number, checking prices across different providers might be a good investment before selecting a subscription plan. Prices for call minutes, SMS, MMS, data-use and international calls vary a lot between different providers. The main phone network providers in Norway are Telia, Telenor, and ICE. There are some providers, like Mycall, which design plans specifically for internationals.