Norway

Quick Overview

Capital: Oslo
Population: 5.25 million
Official languages: Norwegian, Nynorsk, Bokmal, Saami/Northern
Time zone: Central European Time (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Emergency #: 112
Vaccinations required: No
Risk of malaria: No
Climate Info

Norway: Travel Health Information

Norway is known for its expansive and varied natural landscapes. Travellers can catch a glimpse of the northern lights in northern Norway or try an array of traditional Norwegian foods from street vendors and cafes in Oslo.

Healthcare

The standards for patient care and medical services in Norway may differ from your home country. Norway has a public healthcare system and a small private sector that both provide a high standard of care. In some rural areas, the availability and quality of healthcare varies due to limited access to specialized doctors and the poor retention of healthcare workers.

In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in Norway require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Norway.

Pharmacies and medications

Pharmacies in Norway are widely available. Prescriptions for medications must be obtained from a doctor. Pharmacists in Norway are trained and licensed. If you are travelling with medication, check with Norway’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.

Road safety

Roads in Norway are well maintained, and road safety is a high priority. Seat belts must be worn by all passengers in vehicles at all times. Helmets are not obligatory for cyclists, but should be worn for safety.


  • Ånen Ringard, Anna Sagan, Ingrid Sperre Saunes, Anne Karin Lindahl. Health Systems in Transition: Norway. World Health Organization. (2013).
  • Anne Karin Lindahl. The Norwegian Health Care System. International Health Care System Profiles. The Commonwealth Fund.
  • European Commission. Road Safety Overview: Norway. Road Safety Overview. (2016).
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