Relocating abroad is an exciting yet challenging venture. If you're considering moving to Norway, taking the time to carefully plan every step—from logistics to administrative formalities—will ensure a smoother transition to your new life.
Preparing for your move to Norway
Customs information
Contact the Norwegian embassy or consulate before your move to Norway for details on customs regulations and prohibited items. The official Norwegian Customs website, Toll.no, provides clear guidelines on restricted or prohibited goods. These include food products like meat and dairy from countries outside the EEA, plants, fireworks, and weapons and ammunition. Some items require specific permits to be imported.
International moving services
Hiring professional international movers can simplify your relocation process and assist you with cost estimates and logistics. Organizations like the Federation of European Movers Associations (Fedemac) and FIDI include reputable companies that specialize in international relocation. Depending on your needs, these companies can help with packing, transporting, and clearing customs for your belongings.
When requesting a quote, ensure it covers:
- The total volume of your belongings,
- Transportation method (air, sea, or road);
- Insurance coverage for damages;
- Additional services (furniture disassembly, specialized packaging).
Additionally, prepare a detailed inventory and a "declaration of value" to safeguard against and ensure compensation for potential losses or damages.
Moving to Norway with your family
If you plan to move to Norway with your family, you'll need to familiarize yourself with Norway's family immigration requirements. While EU/EEA nationals often enjoy simplified processes, it's crucial to consult the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) for specific guidelines.
The sponsor (resident in Norway) must demonstrate the ability to support their family financially and provide adequate housing. Specific income and housing requirements will depend on individual circumstances.
Moving to Norway with a pet
Bringing your pet to Norway requires compliance with strict Norwegian health regulations.
For pets from the European Union
Your pet must:
- Possess an EU pet passport;
- Be vaccinated against rabies;
- Have an implanted microchip.
Dogs must also undergo treatment for tapeworms 1 to 5 days before arrival.
The rabies vaccination certificate must clearly list the microchip number and vaccination date, which must be at least 21 days before entering Norway. A veterinarian must conduct a clinical examination within 24 hours of departure to certify the pet's health.
For pets from outside the European Union
In addition to the above, a rabies antibody test is required for non-EU pets. Confirm the latest requirements with the relevant authorities via their websites before your departure.
Customs rules to know when moving to Norway
Alcohol and tobacco
Specific quotas apply for alcohol and tobacco imports to Norway. For instance, travelers can bring up to 3 liters of wine and 2 liters of beer, up to 200 cigarettes, or 250 grams of other tobacco products. Exceeding these quotas will result in additional customs duties.
Personal effects
Personal items such as clothing and other goods for personal use are exempt from customs duties, provided their total value does not exceed 6,000 NOK. If the value exceeds this amount, the goods must be declared, and additional customs charges may be incurred.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
