Are you thinking about moving to Norway, a Scandinavian snow-covered mountain kingdom? We are sure that you will be amazed by Northern lights, midnight sun and stunning fjords. However, when choosing a place to call home, it’s vital to know what to expect besides magnificent scenery. But, you don’t have to worry when it comes to the vikings homeland – there are reasons why it remains a top choice among expats.
Can People Outside the EU Move to Norway?
Since Norway is not a member of the European Union, being a bit confused about their immigration rules does not come as a surprise. In fact, as a member of the European Economic Area, this Scandinavian country is open for all EU/EEA nationals when it comes to a residence permit.
This is precisely why we often hear questions like can foreigners move to Norway and what nationals of non-EU countries have to do to stay longer than 90 days. Unfortunately, things get a bit complicated here, because going there means a bit more than documents needed to travel abroad.
Can US Citizens Move to Norway?
When it comes to an American moving to Norway, we have to take the role of myth busters here and say it right away: no, your distant Norwegian family or a relative and that 0.99999% of Norwegian background does not entitle you to citizenship, or residence, either. However, a job offer does. As a matter of fact, it’s the general immigration rule to have one with a good salary will certainly grant you a residence permit, for starters. You can even start the process online and apply for a visa on the UDI site.
In case you want to live abroad and be self-employed, there’s an income criteria you’ll have to meet. Maybe you have a family business you’d like to move there, or just to see what it’s like to start a business on Norwegian ground. Either case, there are certain steps when establishing an enterprise, so make sure to follow them.
Study Visa Is Also One of the Ways to Northern Lights
Since almost all Bachelor’s programs are taught in Norwegian, studying for a master’s degree is unarguably one of the popular ways of moving to Norway from the USA. However, given that they are delivered in English and free from tuition fees, you can have one guess on how fierce the competition for entry is. Yet again, we’re all aware that this is one of the best places to live abroad, so don’t give up without a try.
This is a perfect moment to mention that relocating overseas for a Norwegian higher education does not guarantee you a long-term stay, at least not in this part of the world. On the other hand, getting a study permit entitles you to combine work with your studies. This gives you the opportunity to expand your network and keep working even after your master’s program is done.
ID and D Number Are in Place of a Social Security Number
There are two types of identification numbers, a national identity number, also known as a personal identity number, and a D number. Of course, you get an ID number as a resident, either by being born there or by obtaining a permanent residence status.
On the other hand, if you do not meet the conditions for an ID number or your stay is less than six months, you’re assigned a D number. This one, just like the ID, is a necessary part of the documentation required when you want to apply for a job, opening a bank account, getting a tax deduction, etc.
Finding a Job Is Your Best Shot Immigrating to Norway From the US
Now that you know that your residence depends on employment, it’s time to figure out how to find proper work opportunities. You already understand how to get a job in Europe as an American, so it should be quite similar, right? When thinking about how to move to Norway the most simple way, keep in mind that this small country has its skills shortages. Although you’re a newcomer, being among those working in the field of ICT, healthcare and construction will grant you almost a secure position.
When living overseas, people tend to go to some of the most metropolitan cities out there, not really considering how challenging it will be for their job-hunting. If you dig into different expat communities a bit, most people who found their home all over the world would tell you it’s wiser to start in smaller towns. When in a Land of the Midnight Sun, if you’re just a bit flexible as a newbie on what sort of work you would like to do, then you shouldn’t be worried at all. Small areas often offer part-time work if you’re a student, such as one in a supermarket.
Still, make sure to put relocation questions for your employer on your moving abroad checklist, because your peace of mind depends on it.
Norwegian Taxes and Tax Deductions
Relocating to Norway means you’ll have a lot of taxes on your plate. The first thing you should know before deciding to travel that far is how big the tax on your salary is. You can expect to be taxed 22% of your overall income. However, at the beginning of every year, you automatically get a tax card, which serves as a tool for tax deductions based on your previous year’s income.
Keep in mind that individuals in between visa processing might not get their card on time. In this case, they could be taxed up to 50%, but do not let this information worry you, because there’s a tax return. But, to be liable, you have to be part of PAYE, a voluntary tax scheme.
Can I Move to Norway Without a Job?
Making a decision to replant your roots all the way to this Nordic country without a work opportunity might not be that smart, although doable. Quite skilled individuals can get the “skilled job seeker” visa, which translates into a six-month permit to look for a suitable work opportunity. Still, remember that you still want to prove to their government that you can afford to live there. And to leave, as well, if you don’t find one in due time.
To learn more about how to find a suitable position once you’re there, check out the video below.
How Much Money Do You Need to Move to Norway?
Moving from the US to Norway sounds like a great idea. That’s until poverty comes knocking on your door, saying that you need a lot more savings if your plan is to have a modest life in the third most expensive country in Western Europe. But, we hope you did research the reasons why it’s so pricey: it’s top-rated in personal security, above the average when it comes to one’s well-being, armed with most prestigious education institutions, its healthcare system is free and highly respected, with an enviable level of environmental quality.
That being said, you should be ready to earn 50k a year, and still have an average quality of life, because the estimated monthly expenses for a single person go up to $3,000. Whereas for a family that figure goes up to $6,000. Actually, if you look at the list of common living expenses on Numbeo, you’ll easily conclude that they are almost 50% higher than in the USA.
Leave Some Time to Dig Into Local Housing Market
When moving internationally, there will be a lot of things on your mind besides what to pack and how to do it successfully. Compared to going locally, when there’s often no need for professional packing and other professional moving services, going abroad almost always means hiring an international moving company to help you. Relocating to Hawaii or deciding to live in Connecticut will never be the same as relocating a few blocks away.
The same goes for the Kingdom of Norway. Living there is not a happenstance, it requires many preparations, but proper housing must be the most significant one. As an expat, you’ll be happy to know there are no restrictions for purchasing a property and that there’s even a first-time buyer mortgage that allows you to borrow the total amount of the property price. However, renting a place might be a smart move when you find yourself on unfamiliar ground.
With sites like Finn.no you can find short-term rentals for houses and apartments – furnished, unfurnished and semi-furnished – but keep in mind that you’ll need a deposit, first month’s rent, and all guarantor details.
Moving to Norway: You Don’t Need to Know Norsk to Live In a Land of the Midnight Sun
As mentioned above, there are so many factors that make living in another country easier, and breaking the language barrier is definitely one of them. Learning a language abroad will definitely help you integrate easier and reduce your overall relocation stress.
Even though this Nordic country has two official languages, Norwegian and North Sámi, the first one is considered the national language and it’s spoken by 5.2 million people. Although there are a number of tips for learning a new language, you don’t need to master Norsk to be a part of the community. Yet again, we would advise you to try, because it’s the only way to open more doors for you.
Norwegians Are Masters of English
You’ll probably be amazed to know that 90% of the overall population speak English, and generally on a very high level. All school children start learning it as their second language by age 6, which makes them fluent before they even reach adulthood.
Although knowing this will undoubtedly take a load off your chest, don’t forget it’s a raw deal. Relying on their proficient language skills will make you lazy for learning Norsk which will, furthermore, slow down your adjustment process. So, be aware of it well in advance, and start picking up some of the basic terms right away.
Living Your Life in the Best Nordic Places is Worth All the Trouble
For a new arrival, picking one of the best countries to live in is just part of the task. When it comes to one of the world’s most equal societies, it’s not that simple to decide what part of their country is the most beautiful one. That’s why we did it for you, taking into account other important features, too:
- Oslo – Being the country’s capital, don’t be surprised with all the fascinating history you’ll meet while living in modern Oslo. Also, wherever you’re located, the most remote parkland will be probably up to ten minutes away from your place. It’s universally acknowledged that the education system here is among the world’s top-ranked, which is why many decide to try out Oslo’s schools. Although it is one of the most expensive cities to reside in, high wages balance this out quite easily.
- Bergen – Also known as “gateway to the fjords” thanks to the picturesque mountains surrounding the city, this is one of the most appealing places to expats. Its beauty also lies in both traditional and modern atmosphere, as well as high quality of life.
- Stavanger – Even though Stavanger is known as the oil capital of Norway, it’s still world-famous for its fjords, beaches, and healthy economy, of course. This combination makes it one of the most coveted cities for a family to live in because there you’ll have both natural beauty and many career opportunities.
Now that you have all the information required to make yourself at home under the Norwegian skies, it’s the perfect moment to schedule your move and enjoy the upcoming adventure.
