Norway: Work in Norway

This Scandinavian nation has plenty to offer professionals from around the world - from natural wonders to a high quality of life. Discover more about what it's like to work in Norway

Job market in Norway

Norway is keen to recruit highly skilled and educated workers in a range of sectors due to its small population and gaps in the workforce. Currently oil, computing and technology and the medical and service industries are the biggest employers of internationals.

The majority of foreign workers will have to apply to live and work in Norway. Skilled workers will find it easier to secure a job, however, and having some knowledge of the Norwegian language will further improve your prospects.

The demand for labour varies throughout the country. Fisheries dominate the North whereas the cities of Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim are largely concerned with the financial and business services. Other prominent industries across the country include building and construction, tourism, petroleum and shipbuilding.

Find out more about the Norwegian job market at Norwegian Employment and Welfare Administration (NAV) - Publications .

Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) is probably the most accessible job commonly held by foreign English speakers. You don't need to be fluent in Norwegian to do this, as it is preferable to create a strictly English-speaking classroom environment, but it will be highly beneficial if you have a teaching qualification.

Casual work in hospitality and seasonal jobs are an accessible option for foreign workers, but it is easier to locate jobs when you are already in Norway and can speak some of the language.

Job Vacancies

For jobs in Norway, search:

• Norwegian Employment and Welfare Administration (NAV)  
• EURES Job Search

Work experience and internships in Norway

For work in the farming and tourism industries, as well as au-pair jobs, visit Atlantis Youth Exchange . You can be a 'working guest' or, if you are enrolled at an Atlantis-partnered university, a 'trainee'.

Internships and summer work placements for students can also be arranged by:

• AIESEC UK  - for students and recent graduates;
• IAESTE UK  - for science, engineering and applied arts students.

Volunteering in Norway

Voluntary work is a great way to build your skill-set and learn a new language. It will help to have some money saved before you set off as the vast majority of voluntary positions are unpaid. Volunteer positions look great on your CV and give you the chance to network and build contacts.

The The European Voluntary Service (EVS) , funded by the European Commission (EC), is a scheme aimed at people aged 18 to 30 wishing to volunteer abroad. It offers young people the chance to volunteer for up to 12 months in a number of European and non-European countries.

Opportunities vary from placements concerned with sport and culture to others focused on social care and the environment. For successful applicants, accommodation, travel, food and insurance are all covered by a European grant and you even receive a personal allowance each month.

Make sure you thoroughly research all volunteering opportunities and always check the terms and conditions before committing yourself to a scheme.

Language requirements

Many well-educated Norwegians have a strong grasp of English and can speak the language fluently. While not all jobs in the country require you to know Norwegian, some knowledge of the language will help you secure a job more easily and quickly, and perhaps lead to a better salary. Developing your spoken and written skills will stand you in good stead, so it is worth learning some before you go.

There are Norwegian language courses in the UK and many good websites exist to help you learn a language or improve your skills. To get the ball rolling and learn the basics visit BBC Languages - Norwegian Essential Phrases . 

Norwegian visas and immigration

According to the EC, EU citizens have the right to:

• move to another EU country to work without a work permit;
• enjoy equal treatment with nationals in access to employment, working conditions and all other social and tax advantages;
• stay in the country even after employment has finished.

For more information and to check what conditions and restrictions apply see:

• European Commission - Free Movement EU Nationals
• Europa - Work-Related Rights
• Europa - Workers and Pensioners  

Official governmental information on visas can be found at Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) - Work and Residence .