Practical tips

Here are some useful tips to get settled with your new life in Norway. 

Photo: Colourbox

Norwegian ID-number or D-number

In Norway, we use identification numbers to identify persons who have a connection to our country. Many public and private enterprises require that you have a Norwegian identification number to get access to their services (bank account, part time work, some medical services). 

The number is issued by the Tax Administration (Skatteetaten) to foreign nationals with a residence permit in Norway.

  • The ID-number is permanent, usually issued to student staying 12 months or more. 

Report your move to Norway to apply for ID-number

  • The D-number is temporary, usually issued to students staying for 6 months or less

Book an appointment for ID-check to apply for D-number

Opening a Norwegian bank account 

International students staying in Norway for longer than six months can open a bank account when they have received their Norwegian ID number.

Unfortunately, we do not recommend student staying six months or less (one semester) to open a Norwegian bank account, due to the extensive process of applying. 

Select the bank of your choice, and meet up in person to open an account. 

What documents do I need?

  • Passport
  • Residence registration certificate (EU/EEA) or residence card (non-EU/EEA)
  • Letter of Acceptance
  • Documentation of your Norwegian ID number

You should expect several weeks for the account to be opened.

BankID is a personal electronic identification method designed for secure online authentication and digital signing. You can obtain your BankID from your bank, and use it as an app or code unit. 

Part time work 

How much can I work?

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can work as much as you would like work in addition to your studies. We encourage you to prioritise your studies, and find a good work-life balance. 

Students from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland can work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and full-time during holidays. If you are granted a study permit, you are automatically granted permission to work part-time. 

Where can I find a job? 

--> nav.no
--> finn.no
--> indeed.no 

You can also visit local businesses in person to have a chat and give them your CV. 

For more tips on applying for jobs, please visit UiA Career Services

Do I have to pay taxes?

If you plan to work while studying in Norway you need to apply for a tax deduction card. For more information, please see the Tax Administration's website on how foreign citizens apply for tax cards.

Norwegian Phone Number 

Many students from the EU/EEA have the "Roam like home" service from your providers, which enables you to use your phone the same way you do in your home country. Some students will want to order a Norwegian sim-card. Review options online and find the package that best suits your needs. 

If you have a Norwegian bank account and a Norwegian phone number, you can also use the popular instant money transfer app "Vipps"

Health services

Learn more about the Norwegian welfare system, how to contact a doctor and other welfare services. 

Health and welfare

Living costs and food guide 

Moving to a new country can be challenging and exciting.  

To assist with the planning of your living expenses during your stay in Norway, we have provided some examples to give you an idea of the living expenses for a student in Norway.  

Student housing (SiA Housing): from NOK 3760 per month

Public transportation: NOK 36 for single ticket or NOK 73 for UiA-ticket (Kristiansand-Grimstad single ticket)

Public transportation card for students (one month, whole Agder): NOK 595

Public transportation card for students (one month, Kristiansand only): NOK 454

Textbooks (one semester): NOK 1500-3500

Coffee (student coffee bar): NOK 39–65

Dinner (student cafeteria): NOK 40-100

Dinner (inexpensive restaurant): approx. NOK 165

Cinema ticket: approx. NOK 155

Gym membership at Spicheren Gym (Kristiansand): NOK 839 / 2 months for international students, or NOK 419 without binding period

Gym membership at Fresh Gym (Grimstad): NOK 299 / month or NOK 379 / month without binding period

Trip to Preikestolen with Erasmus Student Network: NOK 1500 for a weekend

Published Mar. 15, 2024 - Last modified Apr. 18, 2024