Norway Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits Exercise normal precautions in Norway. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Norway.   If you decide to travel to Norway: Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and X ( formerly Twitter ) Review the  Country Security Report  for Norway....

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Norwegian hospitals are modern and well-equipped with highly trained staff. English is widely spoken by medical professionals. In remote northern areas and on Svalbard, medical facilities are limited and evacuation may be necessary for serious conditions.

Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is essential due to Norway's very high healthcare costs. EU/EEA citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for reduced-cost access to public healthcare.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Norway follows strict EU/EEA regulations on medication imports. Travelers from outside the EEA may bring up to 3 months' supply of prescription medication with a valid prescription or doctor's letter. Carry medications in original packaging with labels clearly showing your name. Narcotic and psychotropic substances require a medical certificate — check the Norwegian Medicines Agency (Legemiddelverket) list before travel.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Prescription required; travelers from EEA can bring 1 year supply, others up to 3 months with valid prescription/doctor's certificate
• Adderall / amphetamines — RESTRICTED: Amphetamines are controlled (Category A narcotics) but prescribed for ADHD. Import max 1 week supply without Schengen certificate; longer needs Norwegian Medicines Agency approval
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: Cannabis is illegal; CBD products with >0.2% THC are banned. Even low-THC CBD may be confiscated. Norway decriminalized personal use in practice but import remains illegal
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Controlled stimulant; travelers may bring personal supply with Schengen certificate (if from Schengen country) or prescription + doctor's letter
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Prescription required; can import personal supply with valid documentation. Schengen certificate recommended for travel within Schengen area

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not expected — service included. Rounding up is appreciated but never required. Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Being late (Norwegians are very punctual)
• Bragging or being flashy (Janteloven culture)
• Standing too close in conversation
• Loud behavior on public transport
• Expecting everything to be open on Sundays (many shops closed)