How to open a bank account as a foreigner in Norway in 2025
Opening a bank account in Norway is an essential step in settling into life here. Whether you're moving for work, studies, or love, at some point, you'll need a local account to get paid, pay rent, and unlock services like Vipps and BankID.
But what seems like a simple step can often take longer than expected… especially if you're new to the system. Here's what you need to know.
Who can open a bank account in Norway?
In order to open a bank account in Norway, you must have either a D-number (for temporary stays under 6 months, or for stays more than 6 months if you do not meet the conditions for being assigned a national identity number) or a Norwegian National Identification Number / fødselsnummer (for stays over six months). These are assigned once you've completed your residence registration with the National Registry (Folkeregisteret).
Some banks may apply for a D-number on your behalf if you don’t already have one, but this process can take extra time, and not all banks offer this service.
You will also need to prove that you are living and/or working in Norway. Most banks will ask for an employment contract, student enrollment letter, or similar documentation.
If you're in Norway for less than six months, you may find it more difficult to open a bank account, although a few banks will allow it with extra documentation. In general, the process is easier once you have a registered address and are working or studying in Norway.
Prepare for a long process
Opening your first bank account in Norway can be a long process, as it’s strictly to prevent financial fraud and money laundering. But once you’re in the system, you’re in—and future banking services become much easier.
What you need to open a bank account
Once you've decided on a bank (more on that below!), you will usually need to visit a local branch to verify your identity in person. You may be asked to book an appointment yourself. Don’t assume the bank will contact you, or you may be waiting for even longer!
Here is what you should have ready:
Valid ID: Passport, residence card, or Norwegian national ID card
D-number or Norwegian personal number (fødselsnummer)
Proof of address: Rental contract, utility bill, or official letter with your Norwegian address
Proof of residence: A registration certificate from the local police or residence permit
Proof of employment or study: Many banks require this to verify your legal presence and income source
Some banks will allow you to start the process online, but most require you to physically go into a branch to verify your documents and identity. In many cases, this is followed by a paper-based confirmation process. Some banks still require mailed documents, which can add time.
How long does it take to open a bank account in Norway?
The process is often slower than expected. Anti-money laundering regulations, in-person checks, and physical paperwork that needs to be mailed in means that it could take several weeks or even months before your account is fully functional.
According to our own experiences and feedback from the Unlock Norway community, it’s wise to prepare for a scenario where you cannot access a Norwegian bank account (and thus, possibly, not receive your salary) for several months upon arriving in Norway. This can impact a lot in your day-to-day life, so make sure to take into consideration: delays in salary payments, international transfer times, foreign transaction fees on card payments, and not being able to use essential services like Vipps or BankID.
Some employers may allow you to temporarily receive your salary into a partner’s or friend’s account, but this should be arranged early. Make sure you have access to sufficient savings, your international banking apps, and consider how you’ll handle everyday expenses during this transition period.
“When I moved to Norway, I had no idea that it would take SO long to get my bank account set up. From the time I applied, it took them 10 weeks to get back to me, and the next available appointment was one month after that. I was lucky that I could get my paycheck sent to someone else’s bank account, otherwise I would not have had access to my money for over 3 months!”
— Gabriella, creator of Unlock Norway, as shared in the First Steps in Norway ebook.
Which bank to choose in Norway?
There are several banks in Norway that offer services for internationals, but not all are created equal! Some have English-language websites and apps, while others operate mainly in Norwegian. Some have better digital onboarding; others still rely heavily on physical paperwork. Some support Apple Pay, while others require you to use a physical card.
A good idea is to ask around with friends, colleagues, and other internationals which bank accounts they recommend and for which reasons.
Popular banks in Norway for foreigners include:
DNB: Norway’s largest bank with a wide branch network and generally good English support
SpareBank 1: A decentralized group of savings banks with good local presence
Nordea: A large Nordic bank with strong online banking services
Sbanken: A fully digital bank known for ease of use (note: may be harder to join without BankID)
Check whether they:
Offer websites/apps in English
Support Apple Pay or Google Pay
Have digital customer support vs. in-branch requirements
Provide bundled services like insurance, pensions, or investment options
Some banks offer packages tailored to newcomers, so don’t hesitate to ask if they have services designed for international residents. Smaller banks (and local branches) may charge higher establishment fees, but often process applications faster than large institutions.
Tip: You can also check Finansportalen, a government-funded online service comparing prices and interest rates for banking, investment, and insurance services in Norway.
Paying for things
Cash is not very commonly used in Norway. Card is the most used payment method, as well as the Norwegian app Vipps which can be used to pay businesses as well as send money between friends.
What is BankID, and why is it important?
BankID is a secure, government-approved digital ID system that is used across nearly every institution in Norway. You use it to log into official government websites (like Skatteetaten, Altinn, HelseNorge, and UDI), sign documents, apply for housing, and access financial services. You can only get BankID through your bank, once your identity has been fully verified.
If you don’t yet have BankID, the bank will likely ask you to complete an in-person identity check and sometimes additional steps like mailing signed forms before issuing it.
Tip: If you're not eligible for BankID yet, you may be able to use MinID or Buypass for limited access to some government services. This may come with an extra fee from the bank.
How do people pay for things in Norway?
Norway is a mostly cashless society. Cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment apps are increasingly popular.
Vipps is one of the most used payment apps in the country. You can use it to send money to friends, pay businesses, and even shop online. You’ll need a Norwegian number and bank account to use it.
Apple Pay and Google Pay are supported by some banks, so check ahead of time if that matters to you.
Cash is rarely used. Some places do not accept it at all. Some flea markets or rural spots only take Vipps, so be prepared either way.
Digital invoice systems like Efaktura and Avtalegiro (direct debit) are also common in Norway. These let you pay recurring bills (like rent, utilities, or phone plans) automatically from your online bank.
Can you get a phone number without a bank account?
It’s possible to get a SIM card with certain providers like Mycall before you have a full bank account, but many larger providers will ask for a national ID and account info. You can usually sign up online or in-store with ID and proof of address. For most postpaid phone plans, a Norwegian bank account is required.
A long process
Opening your first bank account in Norway can be a long process, as it’s strictly to prevent financial fraud and money laundering.
Settling into Norway
Opening a bank account is one of the first big hurdles internationals face in Norway, and often one of the slowest. Knowing what to expect, preparing the right documents, and staying proactive with follow-ups (and not waiting for the bank to contact you!) can save you a lot of stress. Don’t wait to start the process once you arrive, especially if you’ll be relying on that account for salary or services.
Want more insights into life in Norway?
If you found this post helpful, you’ll love our 50+ page guidebook: Navigating Norway: First Steps in Norway, a practical guide for internationals moving here. It includes clear, step-by-step explanations of registration, healthcare, housing, taxes, and everyday systems.
