Moving Guide
Moving to Norway
Your complete guide to a new life in rural Norway
If you're dreaming about moving to Norway, this guide covers a lot of what you need to know. Do you want a life closer to nature, find a safe place for your family, or are you simply seeking a fresh start? Either way, there are loads of practical and cultural things that are good to know.
Here, you’ll find many of them. From finding the right place to understanding immigration rules, Freysta makes your move to Norway easier.
Frequently Asked Questions Everything you
Everything you
need to know
16 answers to get you started
01 Can I move to Norway without speaking Norwegian?
Yes. Most Norwegians are very fluent in English. However, speaking the language will help you integrate and find work more easily. There are also great ways to learn Norwegian for free through public resources and online tools.
02 What's life like in a Norwegian village?
It depends on the village! Rural Norway is very diverse and there’s really no one-size-fits-all. But if you had to generalize, you could say that the lifestyle is a bit quiet, calm and nature-focused, with close-knit communities. You'll find strong local traditions, beautiful surroundings, and a slower pace of life than in cities. A little initiative goes a long way when it comes to getting to know people.
03 Do I need a Norwegian bank account?
Yes, especially if you're staying long-term. Employers typically require it for salary payments, and having a local account makes it easier to pay rent, bills, and shop online.
04 How do I find a house or apartment in a small village?
Most homes are listed on Finn.no, but many villages also advertise properties locally. If you're curious about rural housing, check out how one young man bought a home at 21 in the Norwegian countryside.
05 Can foreigners buy property in Norway?
Yes. There are no legal restrictions on foreigners buying property in Norway, and the process is usually transparent and secure.
06 Can I find a job before moving?
Yes, many employers in Norway hire from abroad. Check Finn.no, Nav.no, and EURES for listings. Some employers may also support your relocation. Freysta also works with several major employers who hire international talent. Feel free to become a member and get to know the employers we collaborate with.
07 Do I need my education approved to work in Norway?
In most cases it's not required, but having your qualifications recognized can strengthen your job applications. Here's how the approval process works.
08 What are schools like in Norway?
Norwegian schools emphasize inclusion, outdoor play, and independent thinking. If you're curious about lunchboxes, school values, or digital tools, this guide to the Norwegian school system covers the essentials.
09 Is Norway a good place for families with children?
Absolutely. With safe environments, strong parental support, and generous benefits, Norway ranks high for family life.
10 Can I use my foreign driver's license in Norway?
Yes – for a limited time, depending on your country. After that, you may need to exchange it or take a driving test. For a practical overview, read this guide on foreign licenses in Norway, then verify details with the official rules.
11 Do I need a car to live in a village?
Not always. Many villages have public transport options, but a car is useful in more remote areas.
12 Can I bring my pet to Norway?
Yes, but you must follow import rules related to vaccinations, identification, and quarantine depending on the country of origin.
13 What is "dugnad"?
Dugnad is a uniquely Norwegian tradition of volunteering together as a community — often for cleaning, maintenance, or social events.
14 Are there fun outdoor activities in rural Norway?
Absolutely — hiking, foraging, skiing, fishing, kayaking, and even wakesurfing in mountain villages. Norway's countryside is an adventure playground.
15 Is it safe to forage mushrooms or berries?
Yes, with the right knowledge. Norway's forests offer delicious options like chanterelles and blueberries — but it's important to know what you're picking. For a safe starting point, see five beginner-friendly mushrooms and how locals use rowanberries.
16 How can I meet people and make friends?
Join local clubs, sports teams, or volunteer for dugnad. Many villages also have Facebook groups and community events that welcome newcomers.
Didn't find your answer?
We'd love to hear from you. Send us your question about moving to or living in rural Norway. If it might help others, we may include it in our FAQ.
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