The Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV) administers healthcare and welfare benefits, childcare benefits, unemployment, and work assessment allowance. To be eligible for NAV benefits, you need to be a member of the National Insurance Scheme. If you have a residence permit in Norway, you are automatically a member. To be considered a resident in Norway, your stay in Norway must last, or be intended for at least 12 months.

General Practitioner (GP)

If you have a D-number for temporary residence, you will not be assigned a General Practitioner, but you are entitled to necessary medical treatment. The municipality is responsible for providing healthcare. Read more here.

If you have a national ID number, you will automatically be assigned to a General Practitioner (GP) or fastlege. You may change your GP up to twice a year via Helse Norge. You are eligible to take sick leave from work If you are registered in the National Population Register with your national identification number. Read more here.

If you exceed the cap for medical costs, you may be entitled to an exemption card called Frikort.

Dental care

The Public Dental Service in Norway provides free dental care for priority groups, including children under 18. Adults must use private dentists and pay fees, while youths aged 19-20 receive subsidized care.

You can find dentists in your area on Tannleger Norge. Private dentists usually have shorter waiting periods. Check with your insurance company for coverage to check whether your employer offers additional benefits. Some treatments may be reimbursed, and fees vary by practice.

Benefits for new and expecting parents

If you are expecting children, you may be eligible for parental benefits if you have been employed with a pensionable income for at least six out of the last ten months prior to the start of your parental leave.

In general, mothers, fathers or birth partners have the right to paid leave for up to one year in total. The system is designed so that families can decide how they want to divide their paid leave. The first 6 weeks are reserved for the mother.

Read more about pregnancy week by week, check-ups during pregnancy, and advice for pregnant women here. All female residents have the right to a free abortion. For more information, visit Helse Norge.

Pharmacies

There are pharmacies all around Oslo, and there’s also a 24/7 branch in the city center by the Central Train Station. Prescriptions or "resept" from the doctor are issued digitally immediately following your appointment. You can pick up your medication at any pharmacy.

If you have a BankID, you can download the Helse Norge app and check your prescriptions under "Medisiner".