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Moving to Norway from the UK

Moving Costs, Visa Requierements and How to Move

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With its breathtaking scenery and high quality of life, many people dream of moving to Norway! In this article, you’ll learn everything about relocating to Norway from the UK, including moving costs, immigration requirements, and living information.

Costs of Moving to Norway

The average cost for a moving company to Norway from the UK ranges from £1,500 to £6,500, based on the distance, volume, container type, and additional services.

The final price for your move to Norway depends on the distance, the volume of your belongings, additional services like packaging and storage, and potential price fluctuations due to seasonality. Customs clearance and door-to-door delivery are typically included in the price, but always check with the removal company you’re using to move to Norway.

Here’s what you can expect to pay for your move to Norway.

VolumeAverage cost
One-bedroom£1,500 – £3,500
Three-bedroom house£3,000 – £6,500

Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates. The final cost will depend on factors such as distance, volume, season and method of transport for your move.

To save money, you can opt for a shared container (part-load service) and sea freight, instead of air freight (which is faster but more expensive). Sea freight is the most common and cost-effective method.

Are you looking for more accurate quotes for moving services from the UK to Norway? Estimate your price:

Estimate Cost of My Move to Norway

International Moving Companies From the UK to Norway

Internal moving companies to Norway offer door-to-door services and bring your belongings safely to your new home. When browsing moving services, look for companies with experience in overseas shipping. Check the customer reviews or give them a ring to evaluate their services and support.

Top 5 international moving companies from the UK to Norway:

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Norway Immigration Requirements

UK citizens can move to Norway without a visa if they stay for up to 90 days. If you’re moving to Norway for over 90 days to work or study, you’ll need a visa or residence permit.

Obtaining Your Residence Permit for Norway

The application process begins before you move from the UK to Norway and all relevant documents can be found on the UDI website. On the work immigration page, you’ll find information on visas for skilled and seasonal workers, exchange programs, diplomats, seafarers, and more. The process can take several weeks.

If a Norwegian company has employed you, they’ll usually help with the application process. You’ll need to provide proof of employment, qualifications, and a language proficiency test.

Language Test Requirements

You’ll need to learn the language as part of the residence permit. You can take a Norwegian test at the A2 level or participate in classes. You’ll need to complete 225 hours of Norwegian tuition or reach a minimum level, plus finish 75 hours of social studies tuition. If you’re married to a Norwegian citizen, you’ll need to complete 550 hours of tuition.

Can I Move to Norway Without a Job?

Normally, you need a job in Norway to apply for a resident permit for work purposes. However, there are exceptions for skilled workers. In the job seekers section of the UDI website, you’ll find the rules for researchers and recent graduates from Norwegian universities.

If you’re looking for a job in Norway, the Job Seeker Visa allows you to search for work for up to six months, if you have sufficient funds to support yourself.

Moving to Norway With Pets

Bringing your furry friends with you? When moving pets from the UK to Norway, they must meet the requirements for pets entering the EU.

  • Pets have to be microchipped
  • Pets have to be vaccinated against rabies 21 days before entering Norway
  • Pets need an EU animal health certificate from a licensed vet. Do this within 10 days before moving your pet to Norway

Moving Cats From the UK to Norway

Make sure that your cat is vaccinated against rabies and has a microchip or readable tattoo. If you’re flying to Norway, check the airline’s policies for pet transport. Most airlines allow cats up to 18 lbs to travel in the cabin. All cats need an EU-approved pet passport.

Moving to Norway With a Dog From the UK

Make sure your dog’s microchip meets the ISO 11784 standard and that your dog is vaccinated against rabies. Since the UK is an Echinococcus-free territory, dogs travelling directly from the UK to Norway are exempt from the fox dwarf tapeworm treatment. Your dog must, however, have an EU-approved pet passport and be at least three months old.

Living in Norway

Norway is a great place to live, as it consistently ranks as one of the best countries for quality of life! While the living expenses in Norway are steep, the country offers excellent healthcare, high levels of safety, and stunning landscapes.

Cost of Living in Norway vs the UK

A single person living in Norway can expect to spend around £936 each month, without rent. For a family of four, the estimated monthly costs are around £3,336.

Norwegian food prices are similar to those in big cities like London. Some market items and transportation are slightly more expensive, but you save significantly on the cost of housing in Norway.

Curious about how much is a coffee in Norway? Or the cost of beer in Norway? Here’s what to expect for the price of meals and other expenses in Oslo compared to London.

ItemOslo, NorwayLondon, UK
Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant)£16.38£20.00
Pint of Beer£7.38£6.50
Regular Cappuccino£3.44£3.72
Single Transport Ticket£2.99£2.75
Monthly Rent (1-bed, City Centre)£1,123.71£2,145.00
Monthly Rent (1-bed, Outside Centre)£886.76£1,595.46

Source: Cost of Living Comparison Between Oslo and London, Numbeo, 2024

Income Tax in Norway for Foreigners

Norway’s income tax rate is progressive, starting at around 22%. You pay taxes on your salary and other income, such as income from interest, property letting, and shares. If you’re earning above certain thresholds, higher rates apply. The UK-Norway Double Tax Treaty ensures you’re not taxed twice on the same income.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Norway

Moving to Norway offers a wealth of benefits, as well as some challenges:

Pros

 High quality of life
 Great public services
 Strong social welfare system
 Work-life balance
 You can camp anywhere in the countryside
 Beautiful scenery
 Low crime rate

Cons

 3rd most expensive country in Western Europe
 Long winters
 Competitive job market for foreigners
 Solidarity principle tax system
 Challenging integration with locals

Checklist: How to Move to Norway From the UK

There are a few things to know before moving to Norway, and we’ve collected them in this moving to Norway checklist.

  1. Collect all important documents (passport, (birth) certificates, etc.) and ensure their validity
  2. Find a job or look into the job seeker visa
  3. Start the residence permit visa application
  4. Find your new home in Norway
  5. Hire an international mover to ship your belongings to Norway
  6. Pack up your belongings
  7. Register with local authorities
  8. Get health insurance (public healthcare is available, but you need to register)
  9. Set up a bank account in Norway

Frequently asked questions

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Is Norway a safe country?

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