Your guide to living, working and thriving in Norway
Get useful tips on buying a home, finding employment, understanding the school and childcare systems, navigating healthcare, and thriving in everyday life in Norway.
Buying a home
Start by researching the housing market to understand the types of properties available and their price ranges.
Next, secure financing – typically through a mortgage from a Norwegian bank. To do this, you will need proof of income and sometimes a down payment. It is recommended to get a 'finansieringsbevis' (financial approval) to show sellers you are a serious buyer.
Once you have found properties of interest, attend viewings and, when ready, place a bid through the real estate agent managing the sale. If your bid is accepted, you will enter a formal purchase process, which includes signing a contract and transferring payment.
Be sure to account for additional costs such as stamp duty, legal fees and registration charges.
Find work for your partner
When moving to Norway, you can find job vacancies by visiting relevant websites such as www.finn.no.
You could also get in touch with Haugaland Vekst: Kontakt oss - Haugaland Vekst
Haugaland Vekst is a regional development agency that supports international job seekers and their families in settling and thriving in the Haugalandet region of Western Norway.
Through initiatives like the Talent Partnership, the Jobbhjelperen candidate database, and regular networking events, Haugaland Vekst helps connect skilled individuals with local job opportunities.
They assist both main applicants and accompanying partners with:
- Job search and employer connections
- Local networking
- Practical information about living and working in Norway
Preschool (barnehage)
Availability
In Norway, early childhood education is highly valued, and most children between the ages of 1 and 5 attend preschool (barnehage). It is important to apply early, as there can be waiting lists – especially in popular areas.
Costs
Monthly fees can vary by municipality but are subsidized by the government to remain affordable for all families.
The Norwegian school system
The Norwegian school system starts with primary school (grades 1-7), lower secondary school (grades 8-10), and upper secondary school (grades 11-13).
International schools
There are international schools for families who prefer education in English. Many of these schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which is recognized worldwide.
Language support
Children of foreign workers may get extra Norwegian lessons to help them settle into school in Norway.
Health services
General Practitioner (GP)
Everyone living in Norway can register with a General Practitioner (GP), who provides primary health care services. Your GP is your first point of contact for illness or health concerns.
You can freely choose among available GPs in your municipality and may change your GP up to two times per year.
Health station
The health station gives free services such as health checks, vaccines for children, and advice for parents. It helps you follow your child’s development and gives support to parents.
Social integration
Engagement
Joining local leisure activities, volunteering, or language cafés are great ways to meet people and become part of the community in Norway.
Expat networks
Several organizations and groups in Norway support expats. They offer social events, useful information, and help you connect with others in similar situations.
Learning Norwegian
Learning Norwegian makes everyday life easier and helps both adults and children feel more included. Adults can take Norwegian courses through evening classes, online programs, or more intensive language schools.
Dental services
Dental services in Norway are provided through both private and public sectors, with the system for adults differing from that for children and adolescents:
Free dental care for children and adolescents
In Norway, all children and adolescents receive free dental care from birth until the year they turn 18. This includes regular check-ups, preventive care, and necessary treatments.
Public dental clinics
Free dental services are mainly provided through public dental clinics located across the country.
Costs for adults
Dental treatment for adults can be expensive, especially for procedures like root canals, crowns, and implants. It is advisable to compare prices and services between different dentists before starting treatment.
Climate
Temperature
The climate in Southwestern Norway is generally mild compared to other parts of the country, thanks to the Gulf Stream. Winters are usually mild, with temperatures rarely dropping far below freezing. Summers are usually cool, with typical temperatures between 15–20°C (59–68°F), and occasionally reaching up to 25°C (77°F) on warmer days.
Rain
Southwestern Norway is known for its wet weather. The rain is spread throughout the year, but autumn and winter tend to be the wettest seasons.
Wind
Strong winds are common, especially during winter storms coming from the North Sea.
Impacts on daily life
The mild and wet climate contributes to the lush landscape and natural beauty of the region, with fjords, waterfalls, and green hillsides. Locals often dress in layers and carry rain gear to stay comfortable in changing weather.