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WORKING IN NORWAY

Can you find a job in Bergen if you don’t speak Norwegian?

As Norway's second-largest city, Bergen is widely regarded as an international hub. Despite its size, many may wonder whether its possible to find a job in the city without speaking Norwegian.

Published: 12 March 2024 14:10 CET

While fluency in Norwegian may be necessary for specific industries and regions of the country, Bergen stands out for its international community and diverse job market. Photo by Marcel Ardivan on Unsplash

Navigating the Norwegian job market as an international job seeker can pose significant challenges.

Despite Norway’s robust economy and high employment rates, the language barrier is often an obstacle, limiting opportunities for non-Norwegian speakers.

This becomes even more pronounced outside the country’s major urban centres, such as the capital, Oslo. In numerous smaller towns and rural areas, the demand for Norwegian language skills is further heightened due to close-knit communities and a lack of international business presence.

Consequently, job postings tailored to non-Norwegian speakers are limited, making it more difficult for many workers dreaming of a life in Norway to find suitable employment.

On top of that, the public sector in the country predominantly favours Norwegian speakers for their positions.

However, there’s no need to be pessimistic. While fluency in Norwegian may be necessary for specific industries and regions of the country, Bergen stands out for its international community and diverse job market, offering numerous prospects for non-Norwegian speakers.

Industries that (often) don’t require Norwegian

In Bergen, a range of industries offer job prospects for international job seekers, even those without a mastery of the Norwegian language.

Among these sectors are academia and research, where the international nature of the field often fosters an environment conducive to English-speaking professionals. The Norwegian Institute of Marine Research (Havforskningsinstituttet), which has its main offices in Bergen, is an excellent example of an institution that employs and works with international scientists and engineers.

Similarly, the IT and consulting sectors in Bergen often tend to prioritise technical expertise over linguistic proficiency, creating opportunities for skilled professionals from diverse backgrounds.

The accommodation, restaurant, and bar scenes thrive on Bergen’s bustling tourism scene (think fjords), which attracts visitors from around the world. English proficiency is highly valued in these sectors, as it enables effective communication with tourists and ensures a seamless guest experience.

Additionally, the construction sector in Bergen, driven by ongoing infrastructure projects and urban development, often requires specialised skills and qualifications rather than language fluency, opening doors for international professionals with relevant expertise.

In all these fields, the ability to communicate effectively in English, coupled with specific skills or experience, can serve as a gateway for international job seekers looking to establish themselves in Bergen’s job market.

Once you’re in, many companies will finance your Norwegian language course (often the case in the IT industry) or at least finance a few of its initial levels (up to B1 or B2).

Where to find jobs in Bergen

When looking for job opportunities in Bergen that do not require Norwegian language skills, start by directing your efforts towards a select few platforms and networks.

Finn.no, Norway’s largest online marketplace, offers a number of job listings across various industries. By utilising the platform’s search filters and specifying your requirements, you can efficiently sift through job postings tailored to your qualifications and preferences and even set up regular job alerts.

Similarly, LinkedIn is also a great job-hunting resource for international job seekers in Bergen. With its expansive user base and rich job search functionalities, LinkedIn provides a user-friendly platform for applying for jobs and connecting with potential employers. It also offers a wide range of job listings in western Norway, and many (if not most) English-speaking jobs will pop up on LinkedIn.

In addition to online platforms, tapping into personal and professional networks within Norway – if you have any – can be very important in identifying job opportunities. So, try to tap into relationships with local contacts, whether through previous work experiences, academic affiliations, or social connections, as they can facilitate introductions to potential employers in the region.

While recruitment agencies, networking events, seminars, and workshops tailored to specific industries can also be helpful in the job search process, focusing initially on Finn.no, LinkedIn, and personal networks often offers a faster, more direct, and more proactive approach to identifying relevant job openings.

If you’re looking for a job in Norway and have yet to perfect your Norwegian, make sure to check out The Local’s our tips on how to find an English speaking job in Norway.

Bryggen souvenirs

Bryggen, the city’s historic wharf, stands as one of Bergen’s most renowned attractions, drawing in countless visitors each year and serving as a focal point in the city’s bustling tourist industry. Photo by Freysteinn G. Jonsson on Unsplash

Not all industries are created equal…

To keep things real, it’s crucial to recognise that not all industries are created equal when it comes to job demand.

At the time of writing, industries such as IT and seafood stand out as prime examples of sectors with high demand for skilled professionals.

In Bergen, both the IT and seafood industries are labour-intensive and heavily reliant on expertise, leading Norway to import a significant number of specialists to meet industry demands.

Consequently, job opportunities in these sectors often attract attention from headhunters and recruiters who actively seek out talent through platforms like LinkedIn.

In contrast, many other sectors in Bergen require a more proactive approach to job searching on your end. In these industries, you’ll need to take the initiative to reach out to potential employers and actively market your skills and qualifications.

Furthermore, the disparity in job demand across industries can also impact job offers. In sectors like IT and consulting, employers may offer competitive salaries, benefits, and incentives to attract top talent.

On the other hand, in industries with lower demand for jobs, job seekers may encounter greater competition for limited positions. So, you may need to be more flexible in terms of job expectations and compensation.

Why it’s worth learning Norwegian even if you don’t need it professionally

Even after landing a job that doesn’t explicitly require Norwegian proficiency, investing in a Norwegian language course is a strategic move with long-term benefits.

While your immediate job requirements may not require Norwegian language skills, don’t get complacent – learning the language can significantly improve career advancement opportunities.

In addition to improving communication with colleagues and clients, fluency in Norwegian will demonstrate a certain level of commitment to integration within Norwegian society.

Proficiency in Norwegian will also open doors to networking opportunities, professional development initiatives, and potential career transitions within the Norwegian job market.

So, ultimately, you should look at Norwegian language courses as an investment in both your professional growth and personal integration.

While it will take time to become proficient in the language, the effort will set you up for success and fulfilment in your career and personal life in Norway.

If you’re relocating to the city, make sure to read our explainer on the things foreigners should expect if they live in Bergen

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The private and international school options in Bergen

For international parents moving to Bergen in western Norway, figuring out schooling options for their kids is a big deal.

Some lean towards private or international schools to keep things consistent, especially if they’re used to a particular teaching style or curriculum, in the hope of providing a familiar environment for their children amidst the changes.

Others appreciate the idea of private and international schools because they’re melting pots of cultures.

The International School of Bergen

The International School of Bergen (ISB) is located in the residential area of Sandsli, approximately 15 kilometres from Bergen’s city centre.

Established in 1975 to cater to the needs of international families, the school’s modernised and renovated building, completed in 2019, serves as a hub for learning and community building.

In addition to traditional classrooms, the school boasts facilities including a library, art rooms, a well-equipped science laboratory, and a gymnasium.

Beyond the school gates, ISB students have access to amenities, including a swimming pool, ice rink, and various sports facilities, which complement the school’s educational programs.

Regular field trips to local science discovery centres, museums, art galleries, and historical sites enrich students’ learning experiences, while Bergen’s countryside serves as an extended classroom for outdoor exploration.

You can find more information on tuition and fees for the school year 2024-2025 on the school’s website.

Møllebakken Private School

Møllebakken School caters to students across the region, from Åsane in the north to Os in the south and from Sotra in the west to Arna in the east.

With its doors open to learners from diverse backgrounds, the school prides itself on fostering a vibrant and inclusive educational environment.

In the academic year 2023 – 2024, Møllebakken School had an enrollment of approximately 73 students.

Beyond academics, Møllebakken School cultivates a sense of community through several annual school events – such as fundraising for humanitarian causes and ski camps – that bring together students, parents, and educators.

School and parental after-school fees are payable for 11 months each year. When it comes to pricing, for children in levels 1st to 6th grade, the general school fee amounts to 1,250 kroner per month.

For youth in levels 7th to 10th grade, the price is set at 1,650 kroner per month. A separate fee, referred to as “capital costs,” is allocated for maintaining the school. This amounts to 1,000 kroner per year per pupil.

The Montessori School in Bergen

The Montessori School in Bergen offers primary education from the 1st to 10th grades, guided by the principles of Montessori pedagogy.

As Bergen’s oldest and largest Montessori institution, it prides itself on providing a nurturing and empowering educational environment.

As a private school, the Montessori School offers an alternative to traditional public education. The teachers act as guides and facilitators, encouraging students to explore, experiment, and learn through trial and error.

Central to its approach is the belief in fostering independence, self-reliance, and a sense of contribution in each child.

The school ensures that Montessori pedagogy remains at the forefront of its teaching practices while aligning with key Norwegian competency goals.

You can learn more about the application process on the school’s website.

Metis Private School

Metis Private School is centrally located at Lars Hilles gate 17, between Grieg Hall and Bergen’s main bus station.

The school prides itself on having a 99 percent graduation rate among its upper secondary school students.

It charges a standard cost for all pupils, totalling 18,400 per year (as per 2023/2024 prices), which is invoiced at a rate of 1,840 kroner per month for ten months.

The second part of the school fees is flexible and varies based on the specific educational activities in a student’s program.

Metis also offers additional benefits to its students, which include a MacBook with Office and Adobe Suite, a school bag, and a school jumper, all provided without extra charges.

St. Paul’s Catholic School

Since its establishment in 1873, St. Paul’s Catholic School has been a cornerstone of Catholic primary and lower secondary education in Bergen.

The school welcomes approximately 340 students annually, spanning from 1st to 10th grade.

The school is a member of the Association of Christian Free Schools (KFF) and operates under public supervision by the Norwegian Directorate of Education.

Public grants, in accordance with the Private Schools Act, cover a significant portion of operating expenses, though tuition is generally considered quite expensive (the school does have a reputation of being among Bergen’s best, after all).

The school’s students often rank among the top Bergen schools when it comes to national-level performance in subjects such as English, reflecting its dedication to educational excellence.

You can find out more about St. Paul’s admission rules and tuition on the school’s website.

Rudolf Steiner School

In 1929, Bergen became home to one of Norway’s earliest Rudolf Steiner Schools, marking the city’s introduction to Steiner education.

At the heart of the Steiner pedagogy lies a commitment to nurturing the whole person, encompassing intellectual, emotional, and practical development.

In Steiner schools, subjects such as art and practical skills are equally important alongside traditional academic disciplines, fostering an engaging learning environment.

The school combines state funding (85 percent) with parental contributions (15 percent) to sustain its operations. At the time of writing, the parental contribution rates were as follows:

For a single child in grades 1 to 4: 34,000 kroner per year, divided into ten semesters.
For a single child in grades 5 to 7: 35,000 kroner per year, divided into ten semesters.
For a single child in grades 8 to 10: 36,160 kroner per year, divided into ten semesters.

Parents have the option to apply for reduced parental payments. To do so, they must submit their application by July 1st for the following school year.

Bergen Private Gymnasium

Situated at Lars Hilles gate 15, Bergen Private Gymnasium (BPG) offers state-supported upper secondary schooling for up to 525 students.

Conveniently located just a short stroll from the central bus station, the school enjoys easy access from all directions, making it a convenient choice for students across Bergen.

BPG recently renovated its premises, and its classrooms are equipped with adjacent group rooms that facilitate both independent study and collaborative projects.

The school also features designated zones for socialising, and its auditorium provides a space for hosting lectures, concerts, and other events.

For the school year 2023/2024, Bergen Private Gymnasium has outlined a two-part fee structure.

The first part of the school fees is uniform for all students and amounts to 18,400 kroner per year.

The second part of the school fees varies depending on the specific educational activities a student participates in.

These activities can include theatre visits, cinema outings, skiing days, activity days, field trips, and study trips abroad.

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