Norway, renowned for its fjords, northern lights, and salmon, also boasts top universities and an efficient public healthcare system. However, international students must secure health insurance before studying there.
Get the right insurance for your stay in Norway. It must comply with Norwegian rules. Without it, expect bureaucratic delays and expensive healthcare in a country where quality is costly.
Discover essential health insurance requirements for international students in Norway and explore top trusted providers.
Health Insurance Requirements for International Students in Norway
Norwegian authorities are firm: students must have valid health coverage. Let’s explore the specifics based on your origin and duration of stay.
🛬 For Non-EU/EEA Students
If you’re from outside the EU or EEA, you must have valid health insurance before arriving in Norway. This is not merely a suggestion; it’s often required for your visa or residence permit:
📆 Staying More Than 12 Months?
Fantastic news! If you study for 12 months or longer, you’ll be automatically enrolled in the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme (NIS) upon registering as a resident. This gives you access to the same healthcare system as Norwegian citizens.
That means:
- Doctor visits
- Hospitalization
- Specialist care
- Emergency treatment
All are covered, though you’ll pay modest co-pays (typically NOK 160–250 per consultation).
However, dental care? Not included. Pre-existing conditions? Also excluded.
🗓️ Staying Between 3–12 Months?
This one’s trickier. You won’t be automatically enrolled. But you can apply for voluntary membership in the National Insurance Scheme. You’ll need to:
- Register in the National Population Registry
- Provide proof of admission
- Hold a valid residence permit
- Submit documentation including a passport and Norwegian ID number
Note: The processing can take months, so you’ll still need private coverage to fill the gap.
⛑️ Staying Less Than 3 Months?
You’re not eligible for public health coverage. You must have private insurance that’s valid in Norway, covering emergencies, accidents, and repatriation.
🌍 For EU/EEA Students
If you’re from the EU or EEA, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can go a long way.
The EHIC gives you access to medically necessary public healthcare during your stay in Norway, under the same conditions as locals. However, it does not cover:
- Repatriation
- Private medical care
- Lost luggage, theft, or personal liability
So while EHIC is a great baseline, many students opt for supplementary private insurance to fill the gaps and add a safety net.
📦 Additional Insurance You Should Consider
Regardless of where you’re from, travel or private insurance covering the following is strongly advised:
- Repatriation (emergency return to your home country)
- Accidents and liability
- Lost or stolen belongings
- Dental and mental health services
- Vaccinations and preventive care
Some universities, such as the University of Oslo or NTNU, may require you to show proof of insurance for your entire stay. Always check with your institution before departure.
📝 Registration: What You’ll Need
To enroll in Norway’s National Insurance Scheme (either automatically or voluntarily), you’ll need:
- A valid residence permit
- Admission letter from your university
- A registered address in Norway
- A Norwegian ID number (assigned after you register with the local police or tax office)
Important: Coverage under the national system only begins after your registration is completed, which can take 1–3 months. So don’t arrive uninsured.
Top 10 Health Insurance Providers for International Students in Norway
Now that you know what’s required, let’s look at your best options. Below are 10 reliable health insurance providers and plans that international students in Norway consistently trust.
1. Norwegian National Insurance Scheme (NAV)
- Type: Public
- Eligibility: Students with 12+ months of residence or those accepted for voluntary enrollment
- Coverage: Doctor visits, hospitalization, prescriptions
- Cost: Free for eligible students, co-pays apply (approx. NOK 250 per visit)
- Tip: Always carry your health insurance card to avoid delays during treatment
2. Swisscare – Student Plan
- Type: Private International Student Insurance
- Coverage: Emergency medical care, repatriation, accident coverage
- Cost: Affordable, varies by nationality and length of stay
- Why choose it: Recognized by Norwegian authorities and universities. Quick online signup.
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3. IMG Global – Student Health Advantage
- Type: International Student Insurance
- Coverage: Medical care, hospitalization, dental (optional), mental health, repatriation
- Cost: Around $30–$50/month
- Best for: Students who want low-cost but comprehensive coverage, especially during the first 6–12 months
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4. Allianz Care
- Type: International/Expat Insurance
- Coverage: Global healthcare, hospitalization, surgery, evacuation, maternity
- Cost: Custom quotes depending on age, location, and coverage level
- Standout: 24/7 multilingual support and extensive global network
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5. AXA Global Healthcare
- Type: International Expat Insurance
- Coverage: Specialist care, inpatient/outpatient, maternity, optional dental
- Cost: Tier-based, custom pricing
- Good to know: Offers flexible payment plans and digital claims
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6. Cigna Global
- Type: Worldwide Health Insurance
- Coverage: Telemedicine, wellness programs, mental health, emergency repatriation
- Cost: Custom quotes
- Unique feature: Highly customizable with mobile app support and virtual care
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7. April International
- Type: International Student & Expat Health Insurance
- Coverage: Medical evacuation, hospitalization, emergency care, optional maternity
- Cost: Custom pricing
- Why it works: Strong European presence and fast claims processing
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8. William Russell
- Type: Expat/Student Health Insurance
- Coverage: Mental health, outpatient and inpatient treatment, dental (optional)
- Cost: Tier-based, custom quotes
- Recommended for: Students focused on mental health support and therapy options
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9. DavidShield
- Type: International Private Health Insurance
- Coverage: Full medical, emergency evacuation, travel protection
- Cost: Custom pricing
- Highlights: U.S. and global networks; seamless app-based claims and renewals
10. Tryg Forsikring
- Type: Norwegian Insurance Provider
- Coverage: Health, travel, accident, and liability insurance
- Requirement: Must be a Norwegian resident with a registered address
- Why it matters: Local support and trusted by Norwegians themselves
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Key Takeaways for Students
Here’s a quick summary of what you need to do before (and after) arriving in Norway:
| Step | What to Do |
| ✅ Before Arrival | Buy valid health insurance that covers at least emergency care and repatriation |
| 🏡 Upon Arrival | Register with the National Registry and get a Norwegian ID number |
| 📃 If Staying Over 12 Months | You’ll be automatically enrolled in the National Insurance Scheme |
| 📝 If Staying 3–12 Months | Apply for voluntary membership, but maintain private insurance until approval |
| 💡 Extra Tip | Always carry a physical or digital copy of your insurance policy and ID number |
Final Thoughts
Norway provides an exceptional quality of life, largely due to its healthcare system. As an international student, grasping how to access this system and securing your protection is crucial. Don’t delay until illness strikes to learn how to consult a doctor. Be proactive. Purchase insurance. Register accurately. Comprehend your coverage. These minor actions can prevent significant problems.
Health insurance is crucial, not just a bureaucratic formality. It acts as your safety net when abroad. Whether you’re in Norway for a short term or long term, ensure you have the right coverage to enjoy your stay confidently.
Your education is important. But your health? Even more so.
✅ Top 10 health insurance for overseas international students in The Norway
- Norwegian National Insurance Scheme (NAV)
- Swisscare
- IMG Global
- Allianz Care
- AXA Global Healthcare
- Cigna Global
- April International
- William Russell
- DavidShield
- Tryg Forsikring
📚 References:
- Cigna Global. (n.d.). International student health insurance. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.cignaglobal.com
- Allianz Care. (n.d.). Student health insurance plans. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.allianzcare.com
- Swisscare. (n.d.). International student health insurance for Norway. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.swisscare.com
- IMG Global. (n.d.). Student Health Advantage plan. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.imglobal.com
- April International. (n.d.). International student & expat insurance. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.april-international.com
- AXA Global Healthcare. (n.d.). Expat health insurance. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.axaglobalhealthcare.com
- William Russell. (n.d.). Student and expat health insurance plans. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.william-russell.com
- DavidShield. (n.d.). Global student insurance. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.davidshield.com
- Tryg Forsikring. (n.d.). Insurance for residents in Norway. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.tryg.no
- Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV). (n.d.). Health services and National Insurance in Norway. Retrieved July 30, 2025, from https://www.nav.no
