Norway is a dream destination for many students looking for a place to study. It’s also great to be able to earn some extra money to support yourself during your studies. The good news is that international students with a valid study permit can work part-time in Norway, but there are important regulations and guidelines to follow!
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about working part-time in Norway, the rules for international students, how to find part-time jobs, and what resources are available to help you along the way.
Can I Work Part-Time While Studying in Norway As An International Student?
Yes! International students who have been granted a study permit for a full-time program at an accredited Norwegian educational institution are generally allowed to work part-time during their studies. However, there are specific rules regarding the number of hours you can work, the types of jobs available, and the taxation of your income.
How Much Can I Work?
- For Non-EU/EEA Students: If you're from outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), the rules are slightly more restrictive. You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester (September to May). During summer months (June to August), you can work full-time, up to 40 hours per week.
- For EU/EEA Students: EU/EEA students enjoy more flexibility and can work up to 50% of full-time hours (typically 30 hours per week) during the semester and full-time during the summer months.
Automatic Work Permit for Students
One of the significant advantages of studying in Norway is the ease of working while studying. As an international student with a study permit, you automatically receive permission to work part-time. You do not need to apply for a separate work permit, which simplifies the process a lot.
Regulations for Working Part-Time
When working part-time in Norway, it’s essential to follow the regulations. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Work hours (for Non-EU/EEA students): You are allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic year, and 40 hours per week during holidays, such as summer break.
- Types of jobs: Most part-time jobs are available in hospitality, retail, and service industries. As a student, you can also seek internships or work that relates to your field of study, which is particularly relevant for students at Noroff University College, where the programs are tailored to tech and business fields.
- Salary: Norway has a high standard of living, and the salary for part-time work is often enough to cover living expenses. Minimum wages are usually higher compared to other countries.
- Taxation: Income from part-time work in Norway is subject to taxation. As a student, you’ll be taxed at a rate determined by your earnings. Be sure to apply for a tax card through the Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteetaten) to ensure that the correct amount of tax is deducted from your salary.
Where Can I Find Part-Time Jobs in Norway?
Finding a part-time job while studying in Norway can be a great way to immerse yourself in Norwegian culture, build connections, and gain work experience. Here are some great places to start looking for part-time work:
Campus Career Services
Institutions such as Noroff University College offers a robust career services department that helps students find internships and part-time work in their field. For example, as part of Noroff’s commitment to ensuring high employability, the university maintains strong connections with local businesses in Kristiansand and across Norway.
Aage Alexander Foss (Principal at Noroff Vocational School) says:
“We educate students with skills that are directly applicable in the job market. Whether through our online studies, campus studies or part-time solutions, we give students the opportunity to adapt their education to their needs. This makes it possible for students across the country to combine work and education. Our education programs are developed in close collaboration with the business community to ensure that students receive the skills they need.”
Job Portals And Websites
Popular job websites in Norway include:
- Finn.no: One of the largest websites for job listings in Norway.
- Nav.no: The official Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration website, which lists job opportunities.
- Studinet.no: A student-specific portal where you can find part-time work and internships.
- Indeed.no: A popular global job portal that also includes listings for part-time work.
Local Businesses
Many shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars in Norway look for part-time staff, especially during the tourist season. It's worth visiting local businesses directly to inquire about job openings.
Internships and Volunteer Work
If you are looking to gain experience in your field of study, internships and volunteer opportunities can also count as part-time work. These positions may not always be paid, but they provide valuable experience, especially for tech-related fields like Cybersecurity.
Practical Tips for Finding a Part-Time Job
- Start early: The earlier you start looking for a part-time job, the better your chances of finding one. Many employers start hiring during the summer months for the upcoming academic year.
- Polish your CV: Tailor your CV to Norwegian standards. Highlight your skills, any previous work experience, and your adaptability.
- Learn basic Norwegian: While many Norwegians speak English, knowing basic Norwegian can give you a competitive advantage, particularly in customer-facing roles.
- Network: Don’t be afraid to network. Attend career fairs, university events, and engage with your peers and professors – word of mouth is a powerful tool!
Student Testimonials
Noroff University College is a popular university in Norway where many international students have shared their positive experiences of balancing part-time work with their studies.
For example, Weronika said: "Since I didn't have the opportunity to move to take such a course, Noroff was a perfect solution for me. It gave me the flexibility to combine work and studies in a way that suited my everyday life."
Another student, Mattias, says: “The guidance and support throughout the course was invaluable, especially when I was balancing work, studies and personal life. The staff at Noroff were always available and ready to help, which I really appreciated.”
Post-Study Work Opportunities in Norway
After graduating, international students have the opportunity to stay and work in Norway. The Norwegian government offers a post-study work visa for international students who have completed a degree at a Norwegian institution. This visa allows graduates to stay in Norway for up to one year to find a job in their field of study.
Noroff’s strong ties to the tech industry and its dedicated career services make it an excellent choice for students aiming to kick-start their tech careers in Norway. For example with the Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity, you’ll be well-prepared to enter one of the most in-demand sectors globally.
Learn More About Studying in Norway
Working part-time in Norway as an international student is not only allowed but also highly encouraged. It offers a fantastic opportunity to earn money while gaining invaluable experience that can help launch your career.
At Noroff University College, students are supported in their job search through a network of industry connections and a dedicated career services team. Whether you're looking to study Cybersecurity or another program, Norway’s tech ecosystem, high wages, and supportive work environment make it an ideal location to work and study!
If you’re interested to learn more, you can check out the links below:
