Whether you already live in Norway or are considering moving there, you are entering one of Europe's tightest and best-paid job markets. Unemployment is low (around 4.6%), with over 100,000 vacancies and strong shortages in health and tech. Here is how to find a job, an internship or an apprenticeship there.
Why work in Norway?
Because Norway combines a very tight market, some of the world's highest salaries, a renowned quality of life and structural shortages in several sectors. A member of the European Economic Area (EEA), it is freely accessible to Europeans.
- A very tight market, 100,000+ vacancies.
- Salaries among the highest in the world.
- Strong shortages in health and tech.
- Free access for EU/EEA nationals.
How does the Norwegian labor market work?
The market is marked by a structural shortage: in health, the gap far exceeds the number of unemployed, and tech needs thousands of developers. Rural areas in the north suffer particularly. English is widely spoken, easing the arrival of international profiles.
- A structural shortage, especially in health.
- A strong need for developers and tech profiles.
- Acute shortages in the north.
- English widely spoken, easing access.
Which sectors hire the most in Norway?
- Health and care: the country's largest shortage.
- Technology: thousands of developers needed.
- Technical trades and construction.
- Energy: oil, gas and renewables.
- Education, especially in the north.
Which cities should you target in Norway?
- Oslo: the capital, tech, finance and services.
- Bergen: energy, maritime and services.
- Stavanger: oil and energy hub.
- Trondheim: technology and research.
Work permit: the steps for foreigners
EU/EEA nationals work freely, without a residence permit. Others must apply for a permit based on their skills and a job. Permanent residence is obtained relatively quickly, generally after three years.
- EU/EEA: free access, no residence permit.
- Non-EU/EEA: permit based on skills and employment.
- Permanent residence possible after about three years.
Salaries and cost of living: what to expect
Norwegian salaries are among the highest in the world, but so is the cost of living. Purchasing power remains comfortable, especially in shortage sectors.
- Salaries among the highest in the world.
- A very high cost of living.
- High-quality social protection.
How to find a job, internship or apprenticeship in Norway?
- Targeted unsolicited applications (see below).
- Networking and professional platforms.
- Expat communities.
- Specialized agencies, notably in health and tech.
The unsolicited application: the key to Norway's hidden job market
In a market where the shortage exceeds the number of unemployed, contacting companies directly is very effective. The unsolicited application lets you target employers before any ad and benefit from structural needs.
- You reach employers constantly seeking talent.
- You benefit from structural shortages.
- You show your motivation and initiative.
- You get ahead of the competition.
Succeeding in your professional integration: our tips
- Highlight your English: it is often enough to start.
- Target shortage sectors (health, tech).
- Consider the north, where needs are most acute.
- Learn some basic Norwegian for integration.
Your next steps to work in Norway
Target a city and a sector, prepare a CV in English, then contact companies directly. A tight, well-paid market quickly rewards initiative.