Moving to Norway

Moving from the UK to Norway is a life changing experience and Britannia Simpson's of Sussex is here to make it a more pleasant move for you. Our professional team of removal experts will take on all the worry and stress of your move so you do not have to worry about a thing.

Whether you are moving to the capital of Norway, Oslo or the old, unique mining town, Røros, we are able to move your belongings to all areas of Norway. Our removal vans run to Norway once per week, and your belongings will be secure and protected throughout the entire move to Norway.

Importing Household Goods to Norway

• Norway is outside the EU, so when you move to Norway, you must complete a declaration concerning your household items. This declaration is to be presented to the Customs.
• You also have to draw up an inventory and state whether the objects are new or used. If you have used the objects during your stay abroad and have lived abroad continuously for at least a year, you can import these objects duty free.

Documentation Needed For Moving to Norway

• Copy of your passport
• Detailed inventory in English, Norwegian or German
• Completed customs declaration form

Restrictions and Prohibitions

Restrictions or prohibitions apply to the following items: alcohol & tobacco, offensive materials, narcotics, plants & plant material, firearms and ammunition. If you wish to move similar items, you should contact the Norwegian Customs Service to find out more about the regulations.

Moving Pets to Norway

Britannia Simpson's of Sussex can recommend a specialised shipper of animals, who will coordinate all documentation. You can learn more about the rules by contacting the Norwegian Customs Service.

Moving with Motor Vehicles

Motor vehicles can be imported, but they are subject to special regulations and taxes. To find out more, contact the Norwegian Customs Service.

About Norway

Norway is one of the Scandinavian countries in Northern Europe, situated on the western part of the Scandinavian Peninsula. Norway is rich in natural resources, and has a beautiful landscape. It is one of the few countries in the world with fjords, and offers incredible views, with steep valleys, countless islands, and unspoiled fishing villages.

After the emigration of Viking seafarers, Harald Fairhair united Norway in 872. Norway is a wealthy and economically stable country nowadays, with a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy. Although not part of the European Union, Norway is a member of the European Economic area and the WTO, and maintains close ties with the member countries.

Norway's Location and Population

Norway is bordered by Sweden, Russia, Denmark and Finland, and has an extensive coastline facing the North Atlantic Ocean and the Barents Sea. The capital city is Oslo with approximately 1.5 million people living there. Norway is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Europe, with a population of about 4.8 million.

Climate in Norway

Norway is often referred to as Land of the Midnight Sun, as between May and late July, the sun never completely descends below the horizon, offering a unique experience. Because of Norway's high latitude however, there are large seasonal variations in daylight, and the daylight hours are very short in most of the country. Thanks to the North Atlantic Drift, the climate is milder than would be expected. The southern and western parts have more precipitation and milder winters. The parts around Oslo have the warmest summers (temperatures can reach 25-30C) but very cold weather in the winter.

Cost of Living and Life in Norway

The cost of living in Norway might seem prohibitively expensive upon arrival. You will have to pay more for groceries, clothes and cars, but the salaries are also generally higher. It is thus important to consider your financial situation before moving to Norway. At the same time, education and most medical services are free for EU citizens, public transport is excellent and Norwegians pride themselves on their egalitarian policies and welfare state. Oslo is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so expats moving to Norway should consider this when negotiating salary.

Important Facts About Moving to and Living in Norway

• EU/EEA citizens do not need a work permit.
• You must register for a residence permit within three months of arrival
• EU/EEA citizens are entitled to the same health and social service and benefits as Norwegians.
• Housing in Norway is generally cheaper than in the UK.
• There are a number of English speaking schools in Norway and schools offering International Baccalaureate.
• The official language is Norwegian, which is similar to Danish and Swedish. Although the majority of the population is fluent in English, you should consider learning Norwegian if you are moving to Norway for a longer time. The Norwegian Government also sponsors a free language-learning scheme for foreign residents.

What next?

• Read our tips for living in Norway
• Are you thinking of moving to Denmark or Finland?
• Read more about our international and European removals
• Need more practical advice? Check out our Guide to Moving Abroad and our Moving Checklist