Most jobs do not require specific Norwegian qualifications as such, and education and experience from across the world will be appreciated and in some fields even preferred.

There are 161 regulated professions in Norway however, and in order to practice these professions you must obtain official recognition of your qualifications. Some professions also require authorization before you can start practicing in Norway. Typical professions in this category are doctors, nurses and lawyers, but you can find a complete list of regulated professions and professions that require authorization at Altinn.

Even though it may not be necessary in your profession, it could be useful for your employer and for yourself to view your qualifications in relation to the Norwegian educational system. Having recognition of your qualifications may help you find a job, and will also put you in a stronger position in future salary negotiations. You can also use the recognition when applying for further education in Norway.

Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills offers two different types of recognition of education: automatic and ordinary. You can obtain automatic recognition of education in certain degrees from selected countries without having to submit an application. If you are not eligible for the automatic recognition, you can apply for the ordinary recognition, which usually has a turnover of around six to eight months.