Key takeaways
  • Norway has its own skilled worker permit and does not use the EU Blue Card.
  • Without a collective agreement, the salary must be at least NOK 545,400 with a bachelor's or NOK 624,700 with a master's.
  • You need a full time job offer that matches your qualification.
  • English works in tech, energy and research; Norwegian helps elsewhere.

Norway is not in the EU, so it has its own permit for skilled workers. The rules are clear, and the salary levels are high.

The rules

QualificationHigher education, vocational training or special skills
Job offerFull time, matching your qualification
Salary with a bachelor'sAt least NOK 545,400 without a collective agreement
Salary with a master'sAt least NOK 624,700 without a collective agreement
With a collective agreementThe agreement's pay rates apply

Current rules are on the UDI website.

Steps

  1. Get a written job offer. The UDI has an offer of employment form.
  2. Apply online through the UDI portal. You or the employer can submit the application.
  3. Book an appointment to hand in documents. At a mission or service centre.
  4. Register in Norway. With the police or service centre after arrival.

The job market

Oslo, Bergen and Stavanger have strong demand in energy, maritime, IT and healthcare. Many tech companies use English. Find current jobs on my Norway jobs list.

Common questions

Can I look for work in Norway first?

Skilled workers with certain qualifications can get a job seeker permit. Check the UDI conditions.

Is Norwegian needed?

Not for many tech roles, but healthcare and public sector jobs need it.

Can my family come?

Yes, through family immigration.

Free PDF: Norway: the salary rule, the job board, English adsDownload it free in under a minute, or send NORWAY to @swapnil_in_germany on Instagram.
Written by Swapnil (Samadhan Mule)

I moved to Germany for my master's, collected more than 1,000 rejections, and then got multiple job offers within six months. I work in digital marketing in Germany and help international professionals get hired in Europe. Read my story.