Moving to Norway With Children: Schools, Childcare, Healthcare, and Family Benefits

You need to understand how schools work, where your children can go to kindergarten, how healthcare is organized, what family benefits may be available, and how everyday life will work once you arrive.

The good news is that Norway has a well-developed public education and healthcare system, and families have access to several forms of support. However, the system can be quite different from what you're used to in your home country.

If you're considering moving to Norway with children, here's what you should know.

Is Norway a Good Place for Families With Children?

Norway offers families access to public education, healthcare services, subsidized childcare, and various forms of family support.

But moving to Norway with children still requires careful planning.

The experience can also vary considerably depending on where you live. A family living in Oslo may have different housing costs, childcare options, commuting times, and access to international schools than a family living in a smaller city.

If you're still deciding where to settle, Lingu's guide to the best cities in Norway for expats compares Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger, and Tromsø, including living costs, international communities, jobs, and lifestyle.

Norway can be expensive, so it's also worth reading Lingu's Cost of Living in Norway for Immigrants before you create your family budget.

What Should You Do Before Moving to Norway With Children?

Before packing your bags, there are several practical things you should organize.

Your exact requirements depend on your citizenship, residence status, children's ages, and reason for moving.

Start by checking:

• Your family's immigration and residence requirements

• Your children's passports and birth certificates

• School and kindergarten options

• Vaccination and medical records

• Housing

• Healthcare registration

• Childcare arrangements

• Your employment situation

• Your expected household budget

• Norwegian language learning options

If your children are moving to Norway as part of a family immigration application, check the current requirements directly with the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).

You can also read Lingu's detailed guide on Family Immigration to Norway: Requirements, Income Rules, and Application Process, which explains the sponsor requirements, documentation, income rules, and application process.

Moving to Norway With Children: Immigration and Residence

Before thinking about schools or childcare, make sure your children have the right immigration status.

If you are moving to Norway with your family, the process can be different depending on whether you are an EU/EEA citizen, a Norwegian citizen, or a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA.

UDI explains that family immigration can apply to children, spouses, partners, parents, and certain other family members, but the requirements depend on the specific relationship and immigration situation.

For children under 18 moving to parents in Norway, documentation of the family relationship is normally required. If only one parent lives in Norway and the parents have joint parental responsibility, the other parent's consent may also be required.

The safest approach is to check your family's specific situation through UDI's family immigration information before making travel arrangements.

You can also use UDI's document checklists to see what documentation may be required for applications involving children.

Registering Your Family in Norway

Once your family arrives, one of the first administrative tasks is registering with the Norwegian authorities.

Depending on your situation, you may receive a Norwegian national identity number or a D-number, and you may need to register your address and obtain a tax card if you are working.

Lingu has a useful guide explaining how to register in Norway and get a D-number, National Identity Number, and tax card.

Getting these administrative details sorted out can make it much easier to access public services, banking, healthcare, and other parts of everyday life.

Schools in Norway

One of the biggest questions parents have when moving to Norway with children is how the Norwegian school system works.

Children in Norway normally attend public primary and lower secondary school. Public education is generally free, and municipalities are responsible for providing schooling to children who have the right to attend.

The school system includes:

• Primary school

• Lower secondary school

• Upper secondary education

Children who move to Norway from another country can enter the Norwegian school system even if they don't speak Norwegian yet.

However, the transition can take time.

A child who has spent years studying in another language may need additional support while learning Norwegian and becoming familiar with a new school system.

What If My Child Doesn't Speak Norwegian?

This is one of the biggest concerns for international families.

Your child doesn't necessarily need to speak fluent Norwegian before starting school.

According to the Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training, pupils who have another mother tongue and insufficient Norwegian skills can have a right to special language training. Newly arrived children may also receive introductory support designed to help them develop Norwegian before or while entering regular education.

The exact support depends on the child's situation and municipality.

This means parents shouldn't assume that their child must become fluent in Norwegian before starting school.

Instead, contact the municipality or local school as early as possible after deciding where you will live.

For younger children, Norwegian can develop quickly because they hear and use the language every day. Older children and teenagers may need more structured support, particularly if they are entering the Norwegian school system after several years of education abroad.

International and English-Language Schools

Some families consider international schools when moving to Norway with children, particularly if they expect to stay for only a few years or want their children to continue studying in English.

International schools exist in Norway, but availability depends heavily on location.

Places can also be limited, and admission requirements vary.

This means you shouldn't assume that an English-language school will automatically be available near your new home.

If an international school is important to your family, research the options before choosing where to live.

For families planning to stay in Norway long term, enrolling children in the Norwegian school system while supporting them during the language transition may also be an option.

Kindergarten and Childcare in Norway

If your children are young, kindergarten, or barnehage, is likely to be one of the most important things to organize.

Norwegian kindergarten combines childcare, play, social development, and learning.

Children spend time outdoors, play with other children, participate in activities, and gradually develop skills that prepare them for school.

Norway places a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, so don't be surprised if children spend a lot of time outside even when the weather isn't perfect.

When Can Children Start Kindergarten?

Children can attend kindergarten from a young age, but the exact right to a kindergarten place and application deadlines depend on the relevant rules and municipality.

Because municipal application deadlines matter, you should check the rules where you plan to live as early as possible.

This is particularly important when moving to Norway with children, because finding a suitable kindergarten place can influence where you decide to live.

How Much Does Kindergarten Cost?

Kindergarten is subsidized, but it isn't necessarily free.

Parents normally pay a monthly fee, although national rules limit kindergarten fees. There can also be additional costs for meals or other services depending on the kindergarten.

Because fees and local arrangements can change, check the current rates with your municipality or the kindergarten you're considering.

Childcare Outside Kindergarten

Older children may need childcare before or after school.

One common option is SFO, the Norwegian school-age childcare program.

SFO provides supervision and activities outside normal school hours, which can be particularly useful for working parents.

Availability, opening hours, and fees can vary between municipalities.

If both parents work full time, investigate SFO before choosing a school or neighborhood.

Healthcare for Children in Norway

Healthcare is another major consideration when moving to Norway with children.

Norway provides extensive public healthcare services for children. Children under 16 do not pay user fees for public healthcare, while children and adolescents under 18 are entitled to free public dental care, with exceptions including orthodontic treatment.

For an overview of how the Norwegian healthcare system works, see Helsenorge's guide to healthcare in Norway.

Health Centres for Young Children

If you have a baby or young child, you'll probably become familiar with the local helsestasjon, or child health centre.

The health centre programme for children aged 0–5 is a free service provided by the municipality. It includes health checks, vaccinations, advice, and follow-up from public health nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Helsenorge also provides information about healthcare rights for children and adolescents.

School Health Services

Once your child starts school, they can also use the school health service.

The school health service is free for pupils in primary, lower secondary, and upper secondary school and provides health consultations, examinations, vaccinations, and support when needed.

This can be particularly useful when a child is adjusting to a new country or school.

Finding a GP

Once your family is registered as residents in Norway and meets the relevant requirements, you can normally have a fastlege, or regular GP.

Your GP is usually the first point of contact when you or your child has a health problem that isn't an emergency.

Children can generally have the same GP as their parents until they turn 16.

Parents can also use Helsenorge to manage certain healthcare services on behalf of children, including booking appointments and communicating with healthcare providers.

If you need an interpreter, Norwegian healthcare rules provide a right to an interpreter when necessary.

What About Vaccinations?

Norway has a national childhood immunisation programme.

If your child has already received vaccinations in another country, bring their medical and vaccination records with you.

This makes it easier for Norwegian healthcare professionals to determine which vaccinations your child has already received and whether anything is missing.

Don't rely on memory or an incomplete list if you can bring official documentation.

If your child is already receiving treatment for a medical condition, bring relevant medical records and prescription information as well.

Child Benefit in Norway

Families living in Norway may qualify for child benefit, known as barnetrygd.

Child benefit is financial support for families with children under the age of 18. Foreign workers can also qualify in some situations. NAV states that when the whole family lives in Norway and intends to stay for more than 12 months, the family may qualify, although separate rules apply to EEA citizens.

The current ordinary child benefit rate is NOK 2,012 per child per month from 1 February 2026. A separate supplement applies in Finnmark, Svalbard, and certain municipalities in Northern Troms.

Because benefit rules and rates can change, check the current information on NAV's child benefit page before including it in your family budget.

Parental Benefits

If you're having a baby around the time you move to Norway, you should also look into parental benefits.

Norway has a parental benefit system for eligible parents, but eligibility depends on factors such as employment and membership in the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme.

The rules can be particularly complicated for families who have recently moved between countries.

If you're planning a birth around the time of your relocation, check the current NAV rules before making financial plans.

Don't assume that working in Norway for a short period automatically gives you access to every Norwegian parental benefit.

What About Cash-for-Care Benefits?

Some families may also encounter a cash-for-care benefit, known as kontantstøtte.

This benefit can apply to certain families with young children who do not use a full-time kindergarten place.

However, eligibility requirements apply, including rules relating to the child's age, residence, and other circumstances.

The benefit isn't something every family moving to Norway with children will automatically receive.

Check the current requirements through NAV before including it in your household budget.

How Expensive Is It to Raise Children in Norway?

One of the biggest challenges for families moving to Norway is the cost of living.

Housing is often the largest expense.

Depending on where you live, you may also need to budget for:

• Kindergarten fees

• SFO

• Food

• Clothing

• Sports and activities

• Transportation

• School supplies

• Childcare

• Housing deposits

• Leisure activities

Some services are subsidized or free, which can reduce the financial burden on families.

Before moving, calculate your expected monthly household budget rather than looking only at your potential salary.

Lingu's Cost of Living in Norway for Immigrants provides a useful overview of rent, food, transport, utilities, healthcare, and typical monthly budgets for individuals and families.

What Is Everyday Family Life Like in Norway?

One of the biggest adjustments for international families can be cultural rather than administrative.

Norwegian children often spend a lot of time outdoors.

Hiking, skiing, cycling, football, swimming, and other activities are common parts of childhood for many families.

Don't worry if you aren't an experienced skier or hiker.

You don't have to become an outdoor expert overnight.

The important thing is that children have opportunities to participate and spend time with other children.

Sports clubs and local activities can also be a great way for international families to meet people and become part of their local community.

Lingu's guide to Life in Norway as a Foreigner is also useful for understanding what the first few months can be like, including housing, registration, healthcare, work, and learning Norwegian.

Will My Children Need to Learn Norwegian?

If you're moving to Norway with children for the long term, learning Norwegian is usually one of the most useful things your family can do.

Children often pick up languages quickly because they are surrounded by Norwegian at school and during everyday activities.

Parents can take longer, particularly if they are working full time and have limited opportunities to practice.

This is one reason why it can be useful for the whole family to learn Norwegian together.

Even basic Norwegian can help with:

• Talking to teachers

• Understanding school messages

• Communicating with other parents

• Speaking with doctors

• Participating in local activities

• Understanding everyday conversations

• Helping children with homework

You don't have to wait until you move.

Starting Norwegian before relocating can make the transition easier for everyone.

Lingu offers Norwegian courses for different levels and learning styles, including flexible online options for people who need to fit language learning around work and family life.

What Documents Should You Bring for Your Children?

Before moving, create a document folder for every family member.

Depending on your situation, useful documents can include:

• Passports

• Birth certificates

• Residence documents

• School records

• Vaccination records

• Medical records

• Prescription information

• Educational assessments

• Custody documentation where relevant

• Proof of parental responsibility where relevant

• Insurance documents

It is also worth keeping digital copies of important documents.

If documents are not in English or Norwegian, check whether certified translations are required for the specific authority or application.

Should You Move Before Finding a School or Kindergarten?

Ideally, research schools and kindergarten options before signing a long-term rental contract.

This is especially important if you have specific requirements.

For example, you might want:

• A school close to home

• An international school

• A particular kindergarten

• Short commuting times

• Access to public transport

• Nearby sports facilities

• A large international community

Your children's needs should therefore be part of your housing decision.

Don't choose a home based only on rent.

A cheaper apartment on the other side of the city may not actually be cheaper if it creates a long daily commute and makes childcare complicated.

This is another reason why comparing Norwegian cities before moving can be useful. Lingu's Best Cities in Norway for Expats guide compares several major cities and their differences.

What If My Child Struggles After Moving?

Moving countries can be exciting for children, but it can also be difficult.

A child may miss friends, grandparents, familiar food, their old school, or their native language.

Younger children may adapt quickly, while teenagers may find the transition more complicated.

Try to maintain some familiar routines during the first months.

At the same time, encourage your children to build new connections.

Sports clubs, school activities, language groups, and hobbies can help children make friends without requiring them to be completely fluent in Norwegian immediately.

If you're concerned about your child's wellbeing, talk to their school, GP, school health service, or another appropriate professional.

The Norwegian school health service is free, and Helsenorge provides information about mental healthcare and support for children and adolescents.

Moving to Norway With Children: A Practical Checklist

Before you move, make sure you've thought about these areas:

Immigration

Check residence requirements for every family member through UDI.

Registration

Understand whether your family needs a D-number, national identity number, or other registration.

Housing

Research neighborhoods, schools, childcare, transport, and local services before signing a lease.

School

Contact the municipality or school and find out how enrollment works.

Kindergarten

Check application deadlines and availability in your municipality.

Healthcare

Bring medical records, vaccination documentation, and information about ongoing treatment.

Benefits

Check NAV to see whether your family may qualify for child benefit or other support.

Language

Start learning Norwegian before or soon after your move.

Budget

Calculate realistic housing, food, transport, childcare, and activity costs.

Social life

Look for sports clubs, activities, community groups, and other opportunities for your children to meet people.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Norway a good country for families with children?

Norway offers public education, healthcare services for children, subsidized childcare, and various family benefits. However, families should also consider the cost of living, housing availability, location, and their individual immigration situation.

Can my children go to school in Norway if they don't speak Norwegian?

Yes. Children who move to Norway from another country can attend Norwegian schools even if they are still learning Norwegian. Pupils with insufficient Norwegian skills may have a right to special language training, and newly arrived children can receive introductory support depending on their circumstances.

Is school free in Norway?

Public primary and lower secondary education is generally free. Families may still have other expenses related to clothing, activities, transport, or equipment.

Is kindergarten free in Norway?

Kindergarten is subsidized, but parents normally pay a fee. National rules limit kindergarten fees, while municipalities and individual kindergartens may have additional arrangements.

At what age can children start kindergarten in Norway?

Children can start kindergarten from a young age. The exact right to a kindergarten place and application process depends on the child's age and the applicable rules. Check the municipality where you plan to live for current deadlines and availability.

Is healthcare free for children in Norway?

Children under 16 do not pay user fees for public healthcare. Children and adolescents under 18 are entitled to free public dental care, although there are exceptions such as orthodontic treatment.

Do children get free dental care in Norway?

Public dental care is free for children and adolescents under 18, although orthodontic treatment such as braces is an exception.

Can foreigners receive child benefit in Norway?

Foreign families may qualify for child benefit depending on their residence, work, social security coverage, and other circumstances. EEA rules can also affect eligibility. NAV should be checked for the requirements that apply to your family.

Do children have to learn Norwegian if they move to Norway?

Children attending Norwegian schools will normally need to develop Norwegian language skills to participate fully in education and everyday life. Schools can provide language support for children who are new to Norway.

Can my child attend an international school in Norway?

Yes, international schools exist in Norway, but availability depends on the location and school. Places may be limited, so families who want English-language education should research schools before deciding where to live.

What documents should I bring when moving to Norway with children?

Bring passports, birth certificates, residence documents, school records, vaccination and medical records, and any relevant custody or parental-responsibility documents. Keep digital copies as well.

Is Norway expensive for families?

Norway has a high cost of living, and housing can be a significant expense. However, families also benefit from subsidized services and public programs, including public education and healthcare for children under 16.

Should my children learn Norwegian before moving?

They don't necessarily need to be fluent before moving. However, learning some Norwegian before arrival can make the transition easier and help children communicate with teachers, classmates, and other people in their new community.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Norway with children requires more planning than moving alone, but you don't need to have everything figured out before you arrive.

The most important things are to understand your family's immigration requirements, find suitable housing, arrange school or kindergarten, bring your children's medical and educational records, and understand how healthcare and family benefits work.

Your children's age will make a big difference, too.

A family with a two-year-old will have very different priorities from a family with teenagers. Kindergarten availability, school enrollment, language support, healthcare, activities, and social integration can all require different approaches.

The Norwegian system may also work differently from what you're used to in your home country. Give yourself time to understand it.

And don't underestimate the importance of Norwegian.

Your children may learn the language quickly through school, but parents also benefit enormously from learning Norwegian. Being able to communicate with teachers, doctors, other parents, and local communities can make everyday family life much easier.

If you're planning to move to Norway with children, start preparing early. Research the municipality where you want to live, check school and kindergarten options, organize your documents, understand your family's immigration status, and start learning Norwegian before you arrive.

A little preparation can make the transition much smoother for the whole family.