Before we talk about cities in Norway to find fully sponsored jobs for foreigners, it is essential to know that Norway is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes and high standard of living but also its strong economy and demand for skilled workers. As one of the wealthiest countries in the world, Norway has developed into a hub for innovation, technology, oil and gas, and renewable energy. This demand for specialized skills has created ample opportunities for foreigners to find fully sponsored jobs in various industries.
Many companies in Norway are actively seeking foreign talents to fill critical roles, and they offer full sponsorship, including assistance with work visas and relocation. Whether you are an engineer, healthcare professional, IT specialist, or maritime expert, several cities in Norway are more likely to offer fully sponsored job opportunities. This article will explore the top cities where you can find a fully sponsored job, industries in demand, and how to maximize your chances of securing a high-paying role in Norway.
Cities in Norway to Find Fully Sponsored Jobs for Foreigners
Below are the cities in Norway to find fully sponsored jobs for foreigners:
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Oslo
Overview: Oslo is the capital and largest city in Norway and its financial and economic hub. It is home to various industries, including finance, IT, renewable energy, shipping, and healthcare. Many multinational corporations have their Norwegian headquarters in Oslo, making it a prime location for foreign workers.
Industries in Demand:
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Technology
Oslo has a growing tech sector, with companies focusing on software development, AI, and cybersecurity. Telenor and DNB frequently hire software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity specialists.
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Finance
Oslo is the headquarters of Norway’s leading banks and financial institutions. Companies like Nordea and DNB offer opportunities in investment banking, financial analysis, and compliance.
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Healthcare
With a shortage of healthcare professionals, Oslo always seeks doctors, nurses, and specialists. Hospitals in the region are open to sponsoring qualified foreign healthcare workers.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Oslo is one of the most accessible cities in Norway for finding a job with full sponsorship, particularly in high-demand sectors like tech and healthcare. Many multinational companies, especially those in IT and engineering, offer visa sponsorship for highly skilled foreign professionals.
Average Salary: The average salary in Oslo ranges from NOK 550,000 to NOK 1,000,000 (€50,000 – €90,000) annually, depending on the industry and position.
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Bergen
Overview: Bergen is Norway’s second-largest city. It is known for its picturesque surroundings and strong connection to the oil, gas, and maritime industries. Bergen serves as a hub for energy companies and offers numerous opportunities for professionals in engineering, energy, and logistics.
Industries in Demand:
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Oil and Gas
: Bergen centers Norway’s oil and gas industry. Companies like Equinor, Aker Solutions, and DNV GL are significant employers in the region, and they frequently hire foreign engineers, project managers, and technicians. These companies are known for offering full sponsorship to experienced professionals.
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Maritime
The city is a crucial player in the maritime industry, with many companies focusing on shipping, shipbuilding, and offshore activities. Naval engineers and logistics managers can find fully sponsored jobs in this sector.
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Renewable Energy
As Norway shifts towards green energy, Bergen is becoming a hub for renewable energy projects, particularly hydropower and wind energy. Companies in this sector actively seek skilled workers and are open to sponsoring foreign talent.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Bergen offers ample opportunities for fully sponsored jobs, particularly in engineering, energy, and maritime industries. The city’s reliance on the oil and gas sector means that companies are always looking for skilled foreign workers, especially those with experience in offshore operations and environmental engineering.
Average Salary: The average salary in Bergen ranges from NOK 500,000 to NOK 900,000 (€45,000 – €82,000) per year.
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Stavanger
Overview: Stavanger is Norway’s oil and energy capital and one of the wealthiest cities in the country. The city has a long history tied to oil exploration, making it a significant hub for energy companies. Stavanger is also investing heavily in renewable energy projects, making it a prime location for foreign workers in the energy sector.
Industries in Demand:
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Oil and Gas
: Stavanger is home to some of the biggest oil companies in the world, including Equinor, Total, and Shell. This sector has a high demand for engineers, geologists, and technicians. These companies are known for sponsoring work visas for foreign professionals with relevant expertise.
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Renewable Energy
The city is also transitioning towards renewable energy, and as a result, companies are looking for professionals with experience in solar, wind, and hydropower technologies. Project managers, energy consultants, and engineers in this field can easily find sponsorship opportunities.
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IT and Tech
Stavanger’s energy companies rely heavily on cutting-edge technology for exploration and production. This creates a demand for IT specialists, data scientists, and automation engineers who can find sponsored positions with local firms.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Stavanger is an excellent city for foreigners looking for fully sponsored jobs in the energy sector. Companies in both oil and renewable energy industries offer sponsorship packages that include visa assistance, relocation benefits, and competitive salaries.
Average Salary: The average salary in Stavanger ranges from NOK 550,000 to NOK 950,000 (€50,000 – €86,000) annually.
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Trondheim
Overview: Trondheim is known for its strong connection to technology and research. It is home to the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), one of the leading technical universities in Scandinavia, and numerous research institutions and tech startups.
Industries in Demand:
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Technology and Research
: Trondheim is a significant center for tech and innovation in Norway, focusing on software development, AI, and robotics. Many regional startups and tech companies actively recruit foreign talent and offer full sponsorship for software engineers, data scientists, and researchers.
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Renewable Energy
The city is crucial in Norway’s green energy movement, with many companies specializing in hydropower and intelligent energy solutions. Engineers and environmental scientists can find sponsored roles in this sector.
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Academia and Research
NTNU and other research institutions are constantly seeking international researchers, professors, and postdoctoral candidates in fields such as engineering, natural sciences, and technology.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Trondheim offers a wealth of sponsorship opportunities for technology, research, and engineering professionals. NTNU and many tech startups in the region sponsor highly skilled workers in roles related to AI, robotics, and renewable energy.
Average Salary: The average salary in Trondheim ranges from NOK 500,000 to NOK 850,000 (€45,000 – €77,000) per year, depending on the industry.
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Alesund
Overview: Alesund is known for its maritime industry and as a key player in Norway’s fishing and shipbuilding sectors. Although it is a smaller city than Oslo or Bergen, it offers unique opportunities in the maritime, marine biology, and logistics fields.
Industries in Demand:
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Maritime and Shipbuilding
Alesund is a hub for Norway’s shipbuilding and maritime industries. Shipbuilders, naval architects, and engineers can find jobs with sponsorship in companies that specialize in designing and constructing vessels.
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Marine Biology
Alesund is a center for marine research and fishing technology. Professionals in marine biology, aquaculture, and fisheries management are in high demand and can easily find sponsored jobs.
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Logistics and Supply Chain
Due to its strong maritime connections, Alesund is in need of logistics professionals to manage the transportation and supply chain for Norway’s fishing and shipping industries.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Alesund offers fully sponsored jobs for professionals in maritime industries, shipbuilding, and marine biology. Smaller companies in this region are particularly open to hiring international talent to fill specialized roles.
Average Salary: The average salary in Alesund ranges from NOK 450,000 to NOK 800,000 (€40,000 – €72,000) per year.
How to Secure a Fully Sponsored Job in Norway
Knowing the cities in Norway to find fully sponsored jobs for foreigners is one thing, and learning how to secure a job is another. Here are some tips to follow:
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Research High-Demand Industries
Focus on industries like tech, engineering, oil and gas, renewable energy, and healthcare that need skilled workers.
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Use Norwegian Job Portals
Job portals like Finn.no, NAV.no, and JobbNorge.no often list positions with sponsorship for foreigners. Make sure to search for roles that mention visa sponsorship or relocation assistance.
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Tailor Your CV for the Norwegian Market
A clear, concise CV that emphasizes relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments is essential. Highlight any international experience and show how your expertise fits the company’s needs.
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Network with Local Professionals
Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals working in your target industries in Norway. Networking is a powerful tool, as many job opportunities in Norway are filled through referrals and recommendations.
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Apply for Jobs on the Norwegian Skills Shortage List
The Norwegian government maintains a shortage of occupations, including highly demanding professions. Jobs in these sectors are more likely to offer full sponsorship for foreign workers.
Conclusion
Norway offers many opportunities for foreigners seeking fully sponsored jobs in critical industries such as technology, oil and gas, renewable energy, healthcare, and maritime sectors. Cities like Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Trondheim, and Alesund are some of the best locations to find high-paying, fully sponsored positions. Whether you’re a tech professional, engineer, researcher, or healthcare worker, these cities are hubs of economic activity and offer a wide range of job openings for international talent.
To increase your chances of securing a fully sponsored job in Norway, focus on industries experiencing talent shortages, tailor your CV to the Norwegian job market, and actively network with professionals in your target sector. Use job portals and recruitment agencies that specialize in placing international candidates.
Finally, stay updated on Norway’s shortage occupation list and explore opportunities in industries such as renewable energy and engineering, where companies are eager to sponsor highly skilled workers. With the right approach, you can land a fully sponsored high-paying job in one of Norway’s leading cities and enjoy the benefits of working in one of the world’s most livable countries.
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