Work and Travel in Norway

VOLUNTEER AND PAID WORK OPPORTUNITIES IN NORWAY FOR TRAVELLERS

Norway is the undisputed king of expensive travel destinations. If you want to sample the majestic fjords and the towering mountains of the country, you’re going to need some serious cash to do it.

In the absence of a large bank account to travel in Norway with, consider one of the hundreds of volunteering opportunities in Norway. They’ll allow you to really get to know the country and to stay as long as you want.

It’s a unique opportunity to indulge in one the most beautiful corners of Europe and cover your expenses. Our travel guide to Norway is going to show you just what you should be looking at.

Are you ready to take on Norway?

1. Farm Volunteering in Rural Norway

Rural Norway is what the country is known for, so get out there and experience it for yourself in the best possible way. A farm volunteering opportunity in Norway will introduce you to the beauty of the country, and you’ll be making a real difference at the same time.

You don’t need to have any experience to volunteer on a farm in Norway. Just bring your best work ethic and don’t be afraid to get dirty outside.

This is a chance you shouldn’t miss out on.

2. Help with Reindeers and Huskies in Northern Norway

For the ambitious and the hard headed, Norway above the Arctic Circle is the place for you. Volunteer with reindeers and huskies in this remote part of the country.

Work under the glow of the Northern Lights as you care for these working dogs and aid the reindeer herders in their duties. It’s a difficult job with long hours and hard labour, but if you’re strong enough to do it you’ll unlock the heart of Northern Scandinavia.

3. Teach English in Oslo

Oslo is the capital of Norway and one of the few truly urban centres in the country. Most Norwegians already know English, but young people always need some extra help.

If you hold a TEFL qualification, or the equivalent of, you can teach English in Norway. In most cases, long-term positions will provide a salary for you to survive within the country.

You can also find summer camps and special events for native English speaking volunteers who want to work and travel in Norway.

VOLUNTEER WORK VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR NORWAY

Norway operates a confusing visa policy for many. The main reason is that Norway is not a part of the European Union (EU) but is part of the Schengen Zone. EU citizens are able to enter Norway and stay as long as they want, and they can take on paid work without a work visa.

North Americans can enter the Schengen Zone for a maximum of 90 days, but must then leave for 90 days before they can return. The same policy applies to the Japanese, South Koreans, Australians, and Kiwis. The visa is given on arrival for free.

For South Africans and Russians, they have to apply for a formal Schengen visa from a European embassy. If accepted, they can enter under the same terms as anyone else.

SEASONAL BACKPACKER SKILLS NEEDED IN NORWAY

SPRING WORK

The spring season in Norway offers cold, gray, and rainy weather. But that doesn’t mean you won’t find opportunities to work in Norway.

The main seasonal work in high demand at this time of year is farming work. Any farming work you take on will usually revolve around planting and cleaning up after the winter season.

But the availability of these positions depends on where you travel in Norway. The worst of the winter will always clear in the south of the country first.

SUMMER JOBS

Summer in Norway is the time when the majority of volunteers decide to travel the country. This is by far the best time to sample the various fjords and mountain ranges of the country.

In terms of volunteering work, you have a variety of summer camps that take place both in urban areas like Oslo and in more remote areas in the north of the country.

These camps may be language learning camps, sports camps, or art camps. Choose the one that best fits your skillset.

AUTUMN

Autumn doesn’t offer much in the way of specific seasonal work. At this time of year you may want to consider teaching English in Oslo.

The beginning of the school year means that many families employ private tutors. Native English speakers who hold a formal TEFL qualification will be in high demand.

You will have the choice as to whether you specialize in teaching teenagers or younger children.

WINTER

Head to the north of the country to see the reindeers and the huskies the country is famous for. You can join one of the farms and the reindeer herders. It’s a difficult position and it’s not for the faint of heart. Temperatures get extremely cold and you’ll have to work no matter the conditions.

But it’s a truly unique experience that you won’t forget or replicate in a hurry.

Winter sports are also popular in Norway. Places like Lillehammer and Trysil are all skiing and snowboarding locations with available positions for instructors and lodge workers.

Typically, these positions are filled months in advance and do pay a salary.

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING IN NORWAY

The prominence of English should tell you all you need to know about work and travel in Norway. The country is open to the world and welcomes people from all four corners of the globe.

You’ll experience no problems with working or volunteering in the country. There are no touts as this is not a traditional tourist destination, due to the high cost of living.

If you can afford it, one would say this is the ideal country to challenge yourself in. Whether you’re just looking to travel in Norway or to experience something incredible, foreigners are welcome.

Are you ready for your Norwegian adventure?