Working while studying

Many international students hold part-time jobs when studying in Norway. It is a good way to practice your Norwegian and increase your budget.

As an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen you can work as much as you would like work in addition to your studies - but remember, you are first of all a full-time student. If you are from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland you 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 also granted permission to work part-time.

How to find work?

Most vacancies in Norway are listed on the Internet. Job vacancies can be found in the NAV job database (external link - in Norwegian). Most of the vacancies are written in Norwegian, but you can find several job vacancies in English by simply writing "English" in the search field. You can find more information about working in Norway at www.workinnorway.no.

Many universities have career centres, organise career fairs and might even have a job portal with suitable part-time jobs for students. Be proactive and seek assistance from your institution in navigating the Norwegian job market.

Interested in an internship?

An internship is an excellent opportunity to gain relevant work experience. Many institutions have internship agreements with companies in Norway or even abroad. Normally you receive study credits (ECTS) for your participation, but you may not get paid. Many companies also offer summer internships for master’s degree students. These are often announced early in the fall semester, so remember to be proactive and seek information early, from your institutions' career centre or directly from the company.

If your internship is not an integrated part of your studies, a student visa may not be enough. There are different types of residence permit for those that are to carry out vocational training or research. UDI gives more information about the different visa categories for vocational training and research.

Get paid and pay your taxes

Everyone who works in Norway must have a Norwegian identification number (D number or national identity number), a tax deduction card and a Norwegian bank account.

Read more about how to get an identification number from the Norwegian Tax Administration Norwegian identification number - The Norwegian Tax Administration (skatteetaten.no).

Read more about how to obtain a tax deduction card from the Norwegian Tax Administration - Tax deduction cards - The Norwegian Tax Administration (skatteetaten.no).

Know your rights

As an employee in Norway, you are entitled to a minimum wage in some sectors, overtime pay, a written employment contract, a safe working environment and much more. Learn more about your rights at The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority’s website Work in Norway – The Official Guide.