For anyone moving to Oslo, learning Norwegian can be an important step toward integrating into society, enhancing job opportunities, and feeling at home in the country. While Norway has a high level of English proficiency, mastering the local language provides significant advantages in both professional and social settings.
Luckily, Norwegian is considered one of the easier languages for English speakers to learn, thanks to its relatively simple grammar and similarities to English and other Germanic languages. Additionally, the Norwegian government and various organizations offer structured support to help immigrants develop their language skills.
Whether you’re moving to Norway for work, study, or family reasons, this guide will walk you through the process of learning Norwegian, highlighting essential resources, requirements, and strategies for success.
Why Learn Norwegian?
Norwegian may not be strictly necessary for day-to-day survival in Norway, especially in urban areas like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim, where English is widely spoken. However, there are several compelling reasons to learn the language:
1. Easier Integration into Society. Speaking Norwegian helps newcomers connect with locals, make friends, and engage in cultural activities. It also demonstrates respect for Norwegian culture and values, which can foster a sense of belonging.
2. Improved Job Opportunities. While some industries and companies operate in English, many jobs—especially in government, healthcare, education, and customer service—require Norwegian proficiency. Employers often prioritize candidates who speak the language.
3. A Requirement for Permanent Residency and Citizenship. For those planning to stay in Norway long-term, learning Norwegian is mandatory. Specific language proficiency levels are required for obtaining permanent residency and Norwegian citizenship (details below).
4. Understanding Norwegian Culture. Language and culture are deeply intertwined. Learning Norwegian provides insight into Norway’s history, humor, traditions, and literature, enriching your experience in the country.
How Easy Is Norwegian to Learn?
For English speakers, Norwegian is relatively easy to learn compared to many other languages. Here’s why:
Familiar Grammar Structure. Norwegian follows Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) sentence structure, similar to English.
No Complex Verb Conjugations. Unlike languages such as French or Spanish, Norwegian verbs don’t change based on the subject (e.g., “jeg går” – I walk, “du går” – you walk, “han/hun går” – he/she walks).
Similar Vocabulary. Many Norwegian words have English-like counterparts (e.g., “bror” = brother, “hus” = house, “sommer” = summer).
Two Written Standards but One Spoken Form. Norwegian has two written forms, Bokmål and Nynorsk, but Bokmål is the dominant form and is widely used in government, media, and everyday writing. Spoken Norwegian varies by region, but most Norwegians understand different dialects.
While Norwegian is generally considered easy for English speakers, pronunciation can be tricky due to regional dialects and tonal variations. However, with practice, it becomes manageable.
Language Classes and Learning Resources
Norway offers various options for learning Norwegian, ranging from government-funded courses to online programs and private tutoring.
1. Free or Subsidized Government-Provided Classes. The Norwegian government offers language courses to immigrants, especially those applying for residency. These courses are often provided by local municipalities (kommuner) or adult education centers (Voksenopplæring).
- Who is eligible?
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- Family reunification immigrants
- Certain work permit holders
- Where to find courses?
- Local municipalities (e.g., Oslo Voksenopplæring)
- Private providers like Lingu (lingu.no)
For those required to complete language training, the typical requirement is 250-550 hours of Norwegian instruction plus social studies courses.
2. University and Private Language Schools. Several universities offer Norwegian courses for international students, including:
- University of Oslo (UiO) – Norwegian Courses for International Students
(uio.no) - Folkeuniversitetet – Private Language School with Flexible Courses
(folkeuniversitetet.no)
3. Online Language Learning Platforms. For those who prefer self-study, online courses and apps can be an excellent way to learn Norwegian at your own pace:
- Duolingo (free, beginner-friendly)
- Memrise (focus on vocabulary)
- Pimsleur Norwegian (audio-based learning)
- NorwegianClass101 (comprehensive online course)
4. Language Meetups and Practice Groups. Practicing with native speakers is key to mastering Norwegian. Many cities have language exchange events where learners can practice speaking in a social setting. Websites like Meetup and Facebook groups often list local events.
Language Support for Newly Arrived Students in Oslo
Oslo’s public schools offer tailored programs to support newly arrived students in learning Norwegian and integrating into the education system. For students in grades 3 to 10, adapted language-training groups are available, providing specialized instruction until they achieve sufficient proficiency to participate in regular classes. Many of these students attend a language center for up to six months before transitioning to their local schools.
For students in grades 5 to 10 with age-appropriate educational backgrounds and strong motivation, the Centre for Intensive Norwegian Language Learning (Språksenteret) offers intensive courses. The center aims to rapidly develop the Norwegian language skills necessary for academic success and social integration.
Additionally, children whose parents participate in Oslo’s introduction program for newly arrived refugees receive priority admission to day care facilities, supporting early language acquisition and integration.
These initiatives reflect Oslo’s commitment to providing equitable educational opportunities and facilitating the smooth integration of newly arrived children into Norwegian society.
Language Requirements for Residency and Citizenship
Norwegian language proficiency is linked to immigration status and long-term residency in Norway. Here’s what you need to know:
Permanent Residency (Permanent Oppholdstillatelse). To apply for permanent residency, applicants must:
- Complete 250-550 hours of Norwegian courses (if required).
- Pass all parts of the Norwegian exam at level A2 or higher. (udi.no)
Norwegian Citizenship. For citizenship, stricter language requirements apply:
- Pass an oral Norwegian test at level B1 or higher.
- Meet residency duration requirements. (udi.no)
For those who already speak a Scandinavian language (Danish or Swedish), exemptions or alternative requirements may apply.
English in the Norwegian Workplace
Although Norwegian is the primary language in most workplaces, English is widely used in specific industries, especially:
- Tech and IT. Many startups and international companies operate entirely in English.
- Oil & Gas Industry. A global sector where English is the working language.
- Academia and Research. English is commonly used in universities and research institutions.
- Tourism & Hospitality. Many employers seek English speakers for customer service roles.
Websites like EnglishJobs.no and Tech Careers Norway list job opportunities for English speakers. However, even in English-speaking workplaces, knowing Norwegian can help with networking and workplace integration.
Everyday Life Without Norwegian
For those living in Norway without speaking Norwegian, day-to-day life is relatively easy, especially in big cities where most people speak fluent English. Supermarkets, restaurants, public transport, and healthcare services often accommodate English speakers.
However, learning even basic Norwegian phrases can make a big difference when dealing with bureaucratic processes, reading local news, or forming social connections.
Tips for Learning Norwegian Quickly
- Immerse Yourself. Listen to Norwegian radio (NRK P3), watch Norwegian TV (NRK, TV2), and read simple news articles (Klar Tale).
- Speak from Day One. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes! Norwegians appreciate the effort.
- Use Flashcards. Apps like Anki and Quizlet can help reinforce vocabulary.
- Join Language Cafés. Many local libraries and community centers host free conversation groups.
- Find a Language Partner. Language exchange websites like Tandem and Italki can connect you with native speakers.
Final Thoughts
Learning Norwegian is a rewarding investment in your future, offering both professional and social benefits. While it may not be absolutely necessary for survival in Norway, mastering the language enhances your experience and opens up more opportunities.
With the right resources, consistent practice, and a willingness to engage with locals, anyone can successfully learn Norwegian and build a strong connection to life in Norway.
