Social security and other insurances
A guide to help you navigate the essentials of Norwegian insurances.
Main content
Social security and health insurance
As a general rule, all persons who are either resident or working as employees in Norway are compulsorily insured under Norway's social security called the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). This includes financial support if you have children, get sick, become unemployed and more. NIS is managed by the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV) and you can read more about them on NAV.no. You are automatically enrolled into NIS the day you move to Norway. You will not be notified of this and there is no social security number. The only time you need a confirmation of your social security is for longer stays outside of Norway.
As long as you are a member of NIS, you will be covered for essential expenses for healthcare services from the national health services (excluding private practioners). Please be aware that even if you do not have to pay the full amount for these services, there is still a minimum fee you will have to pay for most healthcare services. Read more about healthcare in Norway at HelseNorge.no.
Occupational injury insurance
Through UiB, you automatically have an insurance for occupational injury, meaning injuries and illnesses suffered in connection with work. This insurance is offered by Statens Pensjonskasse (SPK) and you can read more about it at SPK.no. In the event of an employee's death, there will be a lump sum granted to the employee's family, this is called a group life insurance.
Additional insurances
Any other insurance is voluntary and it is up to each person to decide which insurances they wish to have. However, here is some information about what is common in Norway.
- All home-owners have a house insurance which normally covers the building/structure of the house. If you are renting, you will not have this insurance yourself, but your landlord or lady will.
- It is strongly recommended to have a home content insurance. This will insure your personal belongings in your home (in case of theft, fire, water leakage or similar).
- Another recommended insurance is a travel insurance which will cover many of your needs should anything happen while you are travelling (this often includes any type of travels, i.e. anytime you leave your home).
- Some other common insurances are for cars/vehicles, children, and pets.
You can read more about the different types of insurances at FinansNorge.no.
Insurance can be purchased through your union, directly from the insurance company, or through your bank.
UiB insurances
Insurances as an employee at UiB
Travelling outside of Norway?
Read more about what you need to plan in terms of insurances and other practical information at Planning your research stay abroad.
