Employee benefits in Norway

Overview

Norway has established employment laws and social security systems to protect and support employees.

The government requires employers to provide several mandatory benefits and comply with statutory working conditions.

Mandatory benefits in Norway

Employers in Norway must offer core social protections and insurance to all staff.

• National health care coverage via public insurance
• Occupational pension contributions
• Work injury insurance

Most health services are available at minimal cost through national insurance. Private health insurance is not mandatory.

Employers must provide a supplementary pension plan in the private sector. The minimum employer contribution is 2 percent of salary up to 12 times the National Insurance Base Amount (G). For 2025, 1G is set at NOK 118,010.

Work injury insurance is required, with contributions based on risk levels in the job.

Optional employee benefits

Employers may choose to offer extra benefits and workplace flexibility, especially in competitive fields like technology.

• Private life or health insurance (not required)
• Stock options, usually taxed when shares are sold in small startups
• Subsidized or free meals at the workplace
• Relocation support for new hires
• Flexible or remote work arrangements
• Gym memberships or wellness programs
• Public transportation reimbursement for commuting
• Performance or year-end bonuses
• Additional paid vacation days beyond the legal minimum
• Supplemental payment during parental leave for higher salaries

Employers implementing work-from-home setups must define the terms clearly in writing. Conditions may cover working hours, equipment, availability expectations, and trial periods. The same work time rules apply regardless of work location.

Working hours and flexibility

The statutory maximum weekly working hours in Norway are 40 hours. Many employees enjoy shorter standard hours due to collective or individual agreements.

Employers may allow flexible start and end times, or offer hybrid and remote work models if suitable for the role. Specific arrangements must be documented.

Leave entitlements

The Norwegian system guarantees employees paid leave for various personal and family needs.

• Minimum four weeks and one day paid vacation per year
• Sick leave with wage compensation
• Parental leave with wage replacement (capped at annual salary up to 6G)
• Additional parental leave benefits if offered by employer

If an employee earns above the social insurance salary cap, the employer may, but is not obliged to, cover the difference during parental leave.

Employee rights and protections

Norwegian labor law offers broad protections for employees in all sectors.

• Protection against workplace discrimination
• Freedom of association and collective bargaining
• Occupational health and safety requirements
• Data privacy regarding employment records

Employer obligations and compliance

Employers must ensure legal compliance with reporting and contributions for all mandatory benefits.

• Register employees with authorities for social insurance
• Correctly calculate and remit payroll taxes and social contributions
• Provide written employment contracts outlining terms
• Observe notice periods for termination
• Record and manage working hours accurately

Employers must keep employee data and documentation secure and follow established regulations for health, safety, and non-discrimination.

Frequently asked questions

Are employers in Norway required to provide private health insurance?

No, private health insurance is not required for employees in Norway. The public health system covers most medical needs. Some employers may offer private insurance or supplementary coverage, but it is a voluntary benefit.

How is pension savings handled for employees in Norway?

All employers must contribute to an occupational pension plan for their employees in the private sector. The minimum employer contribution is 2 percent of gross salary up to the legal threshold, which is 12 times the National Insurance Base (G).

What are the standard vacation entitlements in Norway?

Employees in Norway are entitled to a minimum of four weeks and one day of paid vacation per year. Many employers offer additional paid days as part of their benefits package or through collective agreements.

How does paid parental leave work in Norway?

Parental leave in Norway provides wage replacement for up to one year. The state covers pay based on the employee’s annual salary, up to a capped amount (6G). Some employers choose to pay the difference for employees with higher salaries.

Is remote work regulated in Norway?

Remote work is allowed but must be covered by a written agreement specifying conditions such as hours, availability, and equipment. The same labor regulations apply to remote and on-site work, including maximum working hours and recordkeeping requirements.