Check list when leaving Norway
CHECK LIST
The degree to which the items in this checklist are relevant for you will depend on where you are moving. The list is intended to provide a starting point for the kinds of things that are important to remember.
- Apply for Research Funding: Begin this process at least one year prior to your departure. Research funding is crucial for your work abroad.
- Visa Requirements:
- Obtain a letter of invitation from the host institution.
- Collect an application form from the embassy of the relevant country.
- Check the entry requirements for your destination country. Different countries have varying visa requirements for international travelers.
- Passport Validity:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned return home.
- Health and Insurance:
- Apply for membership in the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme if you’ll be living outside Europe.
- Obtain proof of insurance or the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from HELFO.
- Consider purchasing supplementary insurance for additional coverage.
- Tax Considerations:
- Investigate whether Norway has a tax treaty with the host country.
- Determine eligibility for a tax exemption and obtain a new tax deduction card from the Norwegian Tax Administration.
- Health Preparations:
- Get any necessary vaccinations at least six months before departure.
- Carry your international certificate of vaccination with you.
- Accommodation and Education:
- Find suitable housing/accommodation in the host country.
- Apply for pre-school/day-care well in advance if you have children.
- Contact the school where you’d like your child to attend.
- Child-Related Steps:
- Apply for a leave of absence from your child’s school or pre-school/day-care in Norway.
- Resign your child’s place in the school after-care program (SFO).
- Apply for a leave of absence from other relevant associations or recreational activities.
- Landlord Insurance:
- If you’ll be renting out your home, obtain landlord insurance (utleieforsikring).
- Financial and Administrative Tasks:
- Cancel various subscriptions (e.g., utilities, memberships).
- Ensure you have a valid credit card for international transactions.
- Create a list of contact persons in both Norway and the host country.
- Notify your Norwegian employer of your planned stay abroad.
- Report your move and change of postal address to the National Registry via the Norwegian Tax Administration.
- Host Institution Registration:
- Complete all registration requirements at the host institution. This ensures you’re officially recognized as part of the academic or professional community.
- Notify the Royal Norwegian Embassy:
- Inform the Royal Norwegian Embassy in your host country about your residency. This helps them provide necessary assistance and support.
- Tax Matters:
- Submit your tax return promptly. Be aware of any relevant tax deadlines.
- If applicable, apply for tax exemptions for the first year. Research local tax laws and regulations.
- Renting Out Your Home in Norway:
- If you’re renting out your home in Norway, you will have to fill in the tax return with the relevant information to ensure proper reporting.
- Verify Income Details:
- Check the certificate of overall pay and tax deducted from your employer for the first year. Ensure accurate financial records.
- Health Insurance and European Health Insurance Card (EHIC):
- Determine whether you should register your proof of insurance or EHIC with the host institution or local authorities. This ensures access to healthcare services.
- Child-Related Steps:
- Apply for pre-school/day-care and/or school for your child. Research educational options in the host country.
- Find out if your child will need a physical examination or certificate of medical health for school enrollment.
Utility and Subscription Cancellations:
- Cancel your electric, gas utilities, telephone, and any other subscriptions you have in the host country. This includes services like internet, cable TV, and other utilities.
Host Institution Notification:
- Notify your host institution of your departure. Inform them about your return date and any necessary administrative details.
Child-Related Steps:
- Notify your child’s pre-school/day-care (barnehage), school, and/or school after-care program in Norway that you will be returning. Ensure a seamless transition for your child’s education.
Bank Account Closure:
- Close your bank account in the host country. Visit your local bank branch and follow their procedures for account closure.
Economic Overview:
- Get an overview of your economic situation. Review your finances, outstanding bills, and any pending transactions. Ensure everything is settled before your departure.
Official Notifications:
- Report your move back to Norway to the Norwegian Tax Administration/National Registry. This ensures accurate records of your return.
Settlement Form:
- Submit your settlement form (oppgjørsskjema) to your employer. This form helps reconcile any financial matters related to your employment.
Payroll Department Notification:
- Notify the payroll department at your institution that you have returned home. Inform them of your period of absence during your stay abroad.
Financial Review:
- Check the certificate of pay and tax deducted from your employer for year 2. Ensure accuracy and address any discrepancies.
Tax Matters:
- Submit your tax return promptly for the second year.
- Apply for any relevant tax exemptions specific to year 2. Research local tax regulations and benefits.
Local NAV Office Notification:
- Notify your local NAV office (Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration) about your return. They can provide guidance on any necessary adjustments or benefits.