The Complete Guide to Registering in Norway: D-number, National Identity Number, and Tax Card Explained

Moving to Norway is an exciting step, whether you are arriving for work, study, family reunification, or another long-term opportunity. One of the first administrative tasks you will face is registering with the Norwegian authorities. During this process, you may receive a D-number in Norway, a National Identity Number, or both at different stages of your stay. You will also need a tax card before you begin working.

Understanding how these systems work can save you time, prevent delays, and make your transition into Norwegian life much smoother.

What Is a D Number in Norway?

A D number in Norway is a temporary identification number issued to individuals who need an official Norwegian ID but are not considered permanent residents of the country.

The D number consists of 11 digits and is used by many public authorities and private institutions to identify individuals who need access to Norwegian services but do not qualify for a permanent National Identity Number.

Many foreign workers, seasonal employees, business visitors, and people staying in Norway for shorter periods receive a D number as their first Norwegian identification number.

Official information about the D number

Who Needs a D Number?

Not everyone moving to Norway receives the same type of identification number. Whether you receive a D number or a National Identity Number depends primarily on how long you plan to stay and your legal residence status.

You may need a D number if you are planning a temporary stay, working in Norway for a limited period, registering a business, opening certain financial accounts, purchasing property, or paying Norwegian taxes while living abroad.

The D number allows government agencies and employers to identify you correctly throughout your stay.

What Is a National Identity Number?

A National Identity Number is the permanent personal identification number assigned to individuals who are registered as residents of Norway.

Like the D number, it contains eleven digits, but it is intended for people who meet the requirements for registration as Norwegian residents.

Once you receive a National Identity Number, it becomes your permanent identifier when interacting with Norwegian authorities throughout your life.

Information about population registration

D Number vs National Identity Number

Many newcomers are confused about the difference between these two identification numbers.

The D number in Norway is generally intended for temporary situations, while the National Identity Number is issued to individuals registered as residents in Norway.

If your circumstances change and you become eligible for residence registration, your D number may later be replaced with a permanent National Identity Number.

Although both numbers allow you to interact with Norwegian authorities, the National Identity Number provides broader access to public services and long-term administrative processes.

How to Register After Arriving in Norway

Registration procedures depend on your nationality, residence permit, and expected length of stay.

Many foreign nationals must first obtain the appropriate residence permit before registering with Norwegian authorities.

Once you arrive, you may be asked to visit a tax office or a designated service centre where your identity is verified, and your registration is completed.

Depending on your situation, the authorities will determine whether you should receive a D-number in Norway or a National Identity Number.

Information about moving to Norway

What Is a Norwegian Tax Card?

Anyone earning taxable income in Norway generally needs a tax card before receiving salary from an employer.

The tax card tells your employer how much tax should be withheld from your wages throughout the year.

Without a valid tax card, your employer may be required to deduct tax at a significantly higher rate until your tax information is registered.

Official information about tax cards 

How to Apply for a Tax Card

Once you have received your D-number Norway or National Identity Number, you can usually apply for your tax card.

In many cases, first-time foreign workers must attend an identity check appointment where they present their passport, employment contract, and supporting documentation.

After the information has been processed, your tax card becomes available electronically for your employer.

Most employers retrieve your tax card directly from the Norwegian Tax Administration without requiring a printed copy.

Can You Open a Bank Account with a D Number?

Yes, in many cases, you can open a Norwegian bank account using a D-number.

However, individual banks may have their own internal requirements regarding identity verification, residence documentation, and customer due diligence.

Some banks may request additional documents before opening an account, particularly if you are a new arrival.

Receiving a National Identity Number later often makes banking services more straightforward.

Can You Work with a D Number?

Yes, provided you have the legal right to work in Norway.

Many foreign employees begin working with a D number while completing the remaining registration procedures.

The D number allows employers to report salary, taxes, and employment information correctly to Norwegian authorities.

How Long Does It Take to Receive a D Number?

Processing times vary depending on application volume, documentation quality, and individual circumstances.

Applications submitted with complete documentation are generally processed more quickly than those requiring additional information.

If documents are missing or identity verification cannot be completed, processing may take longer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many newcomers experience delays because they underestimate the importance of preparing documentation before their appointment.

Incomplete identity documents, incorrect personal information, missing employment contracts, or failing to attend scheduled appointments are among the most common reasons for delayed registration.

Reviewing the required documentation in advance can help you complete the registration process much more efficiently.

Why Registration Matters

Your Norwegian identification number serves as the foundation for almost every important administrative process after arriving in the country.

Whether you receive a D-number in Norway or a National Identity Number, you will use it when paying taxes, accessing healthcare, opening bank accounts, communicating with government agencies, signing employment contracts, and using many digital public services.

Completing your registration correctly from the beginning helps ensure a smoother transition into life in Norway and reduces the risk of administrative complications later.

FAQ

What is a D-number in Norway?

A D-number in Norway is a temporary identification number issued to people who need an official Norwegian ID but are not registered as permanent residents.

Who receives a National Identity Number?

Individuals who are registered as residents of Norway usually receive a permanent National Identity Number instead of a D number.

Can I work in Norway with a D number?

Yes. If you have legal permission to work in Norway, you can generally begin employment using your D number while completing your registration.

Do I need a tax card before starting work?

Yes. Most employees need a Norwegian tax card so their employer can deduct the correct amount of tax from their salary.

Can I change from a D number to a National Identity Number?

Yes. If your residence status changes and you become eligible for population registration in Norway, your temporary D number may later be replaced with a permanent National Identity Number.

Is the D number permanent?

No. A D number is intended for temporary identification purposes. People who later become registered residents normally receive a National Identity Number.

Where can I find official information?

The most reliable information is published by the Norwegian Tax Administration and the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration.