Below is a list of links to relevant authorities and information related to searching for jobs in Norway, work and residence permits and other useful links for foreign workers in Norway.
Work and residence permits
THE NORWEGIAN DIRECTORATE OF IMMIGRATION (UDI)
As a rule, you must hold a residence permit to be able to work in Norway. Citizens of EU/EEA /EFTA countries, with some exceptions, no longer need to apply for a residence permit, but they are still required to register. The Directorate of Immigration (UDI) is the central agency responsible for processing for work and residence permit applications. The agency’s webpage contains comprehensive information about different kind of permits and about how to apply.
Job search
THE NORWEGIAN LABOUR AND WELFARE ADMINISTRATION (NAV)
NAV provides jobseekers with practical information about how to apply for jobs, as well as information about working and living conditions in Norway. NAV’s portal is Norway's main public database for jobseekers. Most of the vacancies are written in Norwegian, but you can also find a number of vacancies in English. The agency’s local offices offer facilities such as computers, internet access, telephones and photocopiers to aid you in your job search.
Website: www.nav.no
Job vacancies can also be found on the EURES Job Mobility Portal. EURES (EURopean Employment Services) is a cooperation between EU/EEA countries and Switzerland designed to promote free movement of labour within the EU/EEA. In Norway, EURES is an integrated service within NAV.
If you are a foreign jobseeker living outside Norway, it is recommended that you get in touch with a EURES adviser in your home country. If you are already in Norway, you can contact a member of EURES where you are staying. EURES advisers are specially trained in the international mobility of labour and will be able to offer you advice and guidance as required while you are going through the job seeking process.
Website: www.eures.europa.eu/
A large number of available jobs are advertised through other channels like newspapers, company websites and internet databases such as www.finn.no (Norwegian language only). You can also search the Norwegian yellow pages to find recruitment agencies or relevant businesses to contact directly.
Useful services
SERVICE CENTRE FOR FOREIGN WORKERS
As a skilled worker or specialist, or if you are covered by EU/EEA regulations, you may qualify to use the services offered by Service Centre for Foreign Workers. The centres were established by The Labour Inspection Authority, the Police, the Tax Administration and UDI to provide information for both employers and employees and initiate fast-track handling of applications.
Website: www.sua.no/en/sua/
NEW IN NORWAY
NYINORGE (New in Norway) is a website aimed at recently arrived labour immigrants. It has gathered useful information from public agencies and provides practical information and advice on a variety of topics. The website is run by The Norwegian Directorate of Integration and Diversity (IMDi).
INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF NORWAY
International Network of Norway (INN) is a division of the Chambers of Commerce that offers tailor-made programs for expatriates and their families to make the transition to Norway as smooth as possible. Your employer can select suitable packages from the Relocation Program, but also sign you up for the Expat Support Program.
NORWAY.NO
Norway.no is the gateway to the public sector in Norway. It is a portal for finding public information and accessing public services more easily. The service is run by the Agency for Public Management and eGovernment (Difi).
NORWAY.INFO
Norway.info offers a complete list of sites of embassies, consulates and missions maintained by the Norwegian government abroad.