Norway
Region
🌍 Europe
Population
👥 5
Currency
💱 Norwegian krone
Languages
🗣️ Lule Sami, Northern Sami, Norwegian Bokmål, Norwegian Nynorsk, Southern Sami
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Discover Norway, a land of dramatic fjords, majestic mountains, and the magical Northern Lights. Explore vibrant cities like Oslo and Bergen, hike through breathtaking national parks, and experience the unique culture of this Scandinavian gem. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Norway offers an unforgettable journey.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Kingdom of Norway
Continent
Europe
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Norwegian
Independence
June 7, 1905 (from Sweden)
Top-Level Domain
.no
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+47
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC+01:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Oslo
ISO Alpha-2
NO
ISO Alpha-3
NOR
UN Code
578
Geographic Coordinates
62,10
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
323,802#69 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
5,636,904#118 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
15.15
Highest Point (m)
2,469
Lowest Point (m)
0
Land Use
3% arable land, 0% permanent crops, 38% forest
Irrigated Land
210 sq km
Coastline Length
25,148 km
Climate
Temperate, modified by North Atlantic Current; cool summers, mild winters; rainy on west coast
Natural Resources
Petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, copper, zinc, lead, timber, hydropower, fish
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Finland, Sweden, Russia
Major Rivers
Glomma, Dramselva, Numedalslågen
Major Lakes
Mjøsa, Randsfjorden, Tyrifjorden
Government Type
Constitutional monarchy
Administrative Divisions
11 counties (fylker)
Legal System
Civil law system
Chief of State
King Harald V
Head of Government
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre
Cabinet
Council of Ministers
Elections
The monarch is hereditary; the prime minister is appointed by the monarch after elections for the Stortinget (parliament)
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court (Høyesterett)
Legislative Branch
Storting (parliament) - unicameral
Major Political Parties
Labor Party, Conservative Party, Centre Party, Socialist Left Party, Progress Party
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Norwegian krone
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
530.76#31 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
583.78#51 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
94,594.19#10 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
1.64
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
34.46
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
55.05
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
3.06#94 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
3,094,897
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
4.64#107 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (1994)Checked September 29, 2026
30.95
Budget
The Norwegian government typically runs a budget surplus.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
240.82#34 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
178.76#35 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Significant foreign reserves are maintained.
Currency Exchange
Information on currency exchange rates can be found on major financial websites.
GDP by Sector
Services, industry, and oil and gas are the main contributors.
Major Industries
Oil and gas, shipping, seafood, and tourism.
Major Export Partners
The United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands, and Sweden.
Major Import Partners
Sweden, Germany, China, and the United Kingdom.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)
Approximately 99%.
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
9.7
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
7.9
Net Migration Rate
Positive net migration.
Median Age
Approximately 40 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
83.57#49 of 214
Urbanization Rate
Stable urbanization.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
83.2#17 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
Low HIV/AIDS prevalence.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
9.43
Ethnic Groups
Norwegian, Sami, and other European groups.
Religions
Evangelical Lutheran is the state religion, with other religions present.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
Lule Sami, Northern Sami, Norwegian Bokmål, Norwegian Nynorsk, Southern Sami
Education
Education System
Norway's education system is public and free for primary, secondary, and higher education.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2018)Checked September 29, 2026
18.1
Government Education Spending
Norway typically invests a significant portion of its GDP in education.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
Major universities include the University of Oslo, the University of Bergen, and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).
Culture
Cultural Overview
Norwegian culture emphasizes equality, social responsibility, and a strong connection to nature. Traditions include folk music, distinctive clothing, and strong family values.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- Første nyttårsdag (2026-01-01)
- Skjærtorsdag (2026-04-02)
- Langfredag (2026-04-03)
- Første påskedag (2026-04-05)
- Andre påskedag (2026-04-06)
- Første mai (2026-05-01)
- Kristi himmelfartsdag (2026-05-14)
- Syttende mai (2026-05-17)
- Første pinsedag (2026-05-24)
- Andre pinsedag (2026-05-25)
- Julaften (2026-12-24)
- Første juledag (2026-12-25)
Popular Music
Popular music genres include pop, rock, electronic music, and traditional folk music. Artists like Kygo and A-ha are globally recognized.
Traditional Food
Traditional foods include seafood (salmon, cod), reindeer meat, and dishes like fårikål (mutton and cabbage stew) and lutefisk.
Sports
Popular sports include skiing, ice hockey, football (soccer), and handball.
Major Festivals
Major festivals include the Bergen International Festival and the Øya Festival in Oslo.
Famous People
Famous Norwegians include Edvard Munch (artist), Henrik Ibsen (playwright), Roald Amundsen (explorer), and A-ha (band).
Cultural Heritage Sites
Norway has many cultural heritage sites, including stave churches and rock carvings.
UNESCO Sites
Norway has several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the wooden churches of Urnes and the Bryggen wharf in Bergen.
Annual Tourist Visits
Millions of annual tourist visits.
Tourism Overview
Tourism focuses on natural beauty, fjords, and outdoor activities.
Top Tourist Attractions
Fjords (Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord), Northern Lights, Lofoten Islands, Oslo.
Famous Cities
Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger.
National Parks
Extensive network of national parks.
Protected Areas
Significant percentage of land under protection.
Best Time to Visit
Norway offers distinct experiences throughout the year. For the vibrant city life and cultural attractions in Oslo and Bergen, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is ideal for experiencing the midnight sun, hiking in the majestic fjords and mountains, and enjoying coastal activities and beaches, though this is also peak tourist season. The winter months (November-March) are perfect for chasing the Northern Lights, skiing in its numerous resorts, and embracing the cozy "koselig" atmosphere. Festivals are spread across the year, with music and cultural events often concentrated in the summer and around major holidays.
Tourist Visa Info
Generally visa-free for many nationalities; check specific requirements.
Visa Requirements Overview
Norway, as part of the Schengen Area, generally allows citizens of many countries to enter for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) without a visa. This includes citizens of the EU, EEA, and several other nations like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK. Travelers from countries that do require a Schengen visa must apply in advance through the Norwegian embassy or consulate in their country of residence. It is crucial to check specific requirements based on your nationality, as rules can vary significantly. Always ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
Travel Advisory
Exercise normal precautions; monitor travel advisories.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
High healthcare quality index.
Medical Cost
Medical costs are generally high, but healthcare is largely publicly funded.
Number of Hospitals
There are numerous hospitals and medical facilities throughout the country.
Universal Healthcare
Norway provides universal healthcare to its citizens and permanent residents, funded primarily through taxes.
Medical Services Overview
Comprehensive healthcare system with public and private options.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are readily available.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
The emergency number for the police in Norway is 112.
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
The emergency number for the ambulance in Norway is 113.
Emergency Number (Fire)
The emergency number for the fire department in Norway is 110.
Crime Rate
Norway has a relatively low crime rate.
Safety Index
Norway generally has a high safety index.
Military Expenditure
Norway dedicates a portion of its GDP to military expenditure.
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services in Norway are well-equipped and provide comprehensive coverage.
Safety Overview
Norway is a very safe country for tourists, with low crime rates. Petty theft is rare but can occur in crowded tourist areas or on public transport, so it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Standard precautions like keeping valuables secure are recommended. While generally safe, it's always a good idea to exercise caution when hiking in remote areas, especially if you are inexperienced, by sticking to marked trails and being prepared for weather changes. Road safety is high, but drivers should be aware of wildlife, particularly in rural areas. Emergency services are efficient and readily available.
Military Branches
The Norwegian Armed Forces include the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Home Guard.
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
Norway has virtually 100% electricity access.
Water Access
Norway has nearly universal access to clean water and sanitation.
Sanitation Access
Norway has nearly universal access to sanitation facilities.
Railways
Norway has a railway network connecting major cities and regions.
Roadways
Norway has a comprehensive road network, including highways and local roads.
Transportation System
Norway's transportation system includes a well-developed network of roads, railways, ferries, and airports.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Bergen Airport, Flesland (BGO), Bodø Airport (BOO), Harstad/Narvik Airport (EVE), Kristiansand Airport (KRS), Oslo-Gardermoen International Airport (OSL), Sandefjord Airport, Torp (TRF)
Ports
Norway has numerous ports, including those in Bergen, Oslo, and Stavanger.
Public Transit
Public transit is well-developed in major cities, including buses, trams, and subways.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
99#8 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
High mobile subscription rate.
Tech Startups
Growing tech startup scene, particularly in Oslo.
Innovation Index
Consistently ranks high in global innovation indices.
ICT Development Index
High ICT Development Index score.
TV Broadcast Stations
Numerous television broadcast stations.
Radio Broadcast Stations
Significant number of radio broadcast stations.
Plug Type & Voltage
Type F, 230V, 50Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
7.18#33 of 202
Air Quality Index
Generally good, with low levels of air pollution.
Water Pollution Level
Water quality is generally high, with well-managed pollution control.
Renewable Energy Usage
High renewable energy usage, primarily hydropower, wind, and solar.
Environmental Issues
Impacts of oil and gas production, marine pollution, and climate change.
Natural Hazards
Avalanches, landslides, and flooding.
Waste Management
Advanced waste management systems, including recycling and incineration with energy recovery.
Environmental Agreements
Active participant in international environmental agreements.
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
Maintains numerous diplomatic missions worldwide.
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
NATO, OECD, Schengen Area
Major Treaties
Significant participant in international treaties related to climate change, human rights, and trade.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens enjoy visa-free travel to many countries.