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Daily life in Norway
Daily life in Norway becomes much easier once you have your local ID or tax number, address registration, health cover and a safe way to ask official questions.
Everyday offices in Norway
Skatteetaten: D-number, tax card. NAV: Health, unemployment, family benefits. Phone: 55 55 33 33. Jussbuss / JURK: Free legal aid.
Numbers, banking and benefits
Get a D-number / fødselsnummer: D-number for short stays (<6 months), fødselsnummer once you register. Book ID control — At a designated Skatteetaten office. Bring passport + residence card / EEA registration. Fødselsnummer — Register at Folkeregisteret once you have a Norwegian address + intent to stay >6 months. Residence permit / EEA registration: EEA nationals register at politiet online; others apply through UDI. Application on UDI portal — Choose permit type, pay fee, upload docs, book police appointment. Police appointment — Biometrics + document check. Decision in 1–6 months depending on stream. Norwegian classes: Refugees and family reunification get free Norwegian via the kommune Introduksjonsprogrammet. Register with the kommune — Program is up to 3 years, full-time, with living allowance. Work migrants — Voksenopplæring often free/low cost. Level A2/B1 needed for permanent residence.
Safety, legal help and discrimination
Emergency number: 112. Support line: 116 006 (crime victims). If you face discrimination, domestic violence, wage theft or housing abuse, ask a legal-aid office, equality body or migrant NGO for free confidential help.
Settling into local routines
Learn the waste-sorting rules, transport pass options, quiet-hour customs, school contact habits and basic phrases in Norwegian. Small local routines reduce stress and make neighbours, teachers and offices more helpful.
Frequently asked questions
What should I organise first after arriving in Norway?
Start with address registration, residence or ID paperwork, health cover, a bank account if possible, and the key numbers used for tax or social security.
Which office should I contact first in Norway?
Start with Skatteetaten. For broader newcomer help, also check UDI — Directorate of Immigration, Politiet — Utlendingsseksjonen, Skatteetaten.
What language will offices use in Norway?
The main administrative language is Norwegian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Can I use my home country driving licence?
EU licences are valid across the EU. Non-EU licences are usually valid for 6–12 months, after which you must exchange or retake the test.
Is tap water safe?
Yes, tap water is safe and highly regulated across the EU.