Norway is rolling out some big changes to its current work permit polices from the 1st September 2025 the minimum salary requirements for foreign workers are increasing significantly, a major step toward making sure that people who come to Norway for work are treated fairly and can afford to live in what’s known as one of Europe’s pricier countries.
The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) and the government have justified the increased salary requirements by acknowledging that the old salary requirements for work permits haven’t kept up with how much wages have grown in Norway over the past few years. Foreign workers were at risk of being paid less than their Norwegian colleagues for similar jobs. The new salary levels are based on the main collective agreement between the Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities (KS) and employee organisations, intended to close the gap, ensuring that foreign workers are paid similarly to the Norwegian workforce and promote fair working conditions for international talent. UDI also notes that these changes help protect the local labour market from wage undercutting, ensuring that Norway is an attractive destination for international talent.
Let’s break it down:
- For jobs that require a bachelor’s degree: The minimum annual salary is jumping to NOK 522,600 (about €45,190), up from NOK 469,366.
- For jobs that require a master’s degree: The minimum annual salary is rising to NOK 599,200 (about €51,802), up from NOK 513,100.
For workers working in a sector that’s covered by a collective agreement (like many union jobs), wages are already set by those agreements and the new minimums will not be applicable. For jobs that are not covered by a union deal, workers will need to meet the new requirements. There is a small exception: if you can prove that your occupation normally pays less in your specific location, you might be able to get around the new minimums, but this is pretty rare and hard to prove.
What does this mean for employers and job seekers?
For employers, it’s crucial to make sure that any job offers to foreign workers meet these updated minimum salary requirements from September 1st 2025. Failing this, you may risk rejection of submitted work permit applications.
For applicants, especially foreign talent coming from outside Norway, it’s vital to check that the employment contract reflects these new minimum requirements before an application for a work permit. This will help avoid any surprises or delays in the process.
These changes are part of a broader effort by the Norwegian government to attract and integrate foreign workers. In recent years, Norway has expanded eligibility for work programs, improved training opportunities, and made it easier for refugees and older workers to join the labour market. The goal is to make sure that everyone who comes to Norway has the support and skills they need to succeed.
At the same time, Norway wants to maintain high standards for all workers, local and foreign alike. By raising the minimum salary requirements, the country is sending a clear message: it values fairness, equality, and the contributions of international talent
What do Leap29’s experts think?
Simon Duff, Director at Leap29, shares his take on the changes:
“I fully support this ruling. Norway is not a low-cost place to live, and ensuring that migrants are paid fairly is essential to helping them build sustainable lives and integrate successfully. It also strengthens long-term retention for the original hiring company and ensures that the Norwegian labour market continues to benefit from international talent, without compromising fairness for the local workforce.”
Simon’s perspective highlights how important fair pay is for helping international workers settle in, stay with their employers, and contribute to the Norwegian economy—all while making sure local workers aren’t left behind.
Norway is sending a clear message promoting its values of fairness, equality, and the contributions of international talent. Leap29 is ready to support you with your workforce, providing expert guidance in Norway.
