Global survey: Norway is one of the world’s worst countries to settle in
No underestimation from Expat Insider ranks 52 destinations according to how good it is for extensions to settle there. Norway ranks overall at number 34, but behind the individual there are both ominous and more uplifting individual positions per category.
Norway performs best in the areas where foreign residents are asked about working life and quality of life, but scores far below average on a number of other questions, reports the Norwegian English-language news website. The local.
Overall, 68 per cent of foreign residents in Norway were satisfied with their lives, compared to 71 per cent globally.
Difficult to settle in
According to the survey, the biggest problem for foreign citizens is to to settle (settle in) in Norway, the survey shows. Here, Norway is among the worst on the list, with only Sweden and Kuwait behind.
The foreign residents pointed out that it was difficult to adapt to the culture. Several said they struggled to make friends and over a third described the locals as withdrawn and unwelcoming.
– It is very difficult to establish personal ties with the local population. I can’t overcome the feeling of being a stranger, says an unnamed respondent living in Norway to The Local.
Some bright spots for Norway
On some points, Norway is still perceived as one of the best countries to live in.
When it comes to the distribution between work and leisure, Norway ends up in second place, only beaten by Denmark.
More than 75 percent of participants said they were satisfied with their work-life balance, compared to 62 percent globally.
This is probably related to the fact that there are good opportunities to work full-time in Norway, combined with arrangements that ensure holidays and an 8-hour working day. In addition, it is common to offer a certain flexibility in working hours and the option of a home office.
– It has a big impact on me having enough time for my family, social life and leisure activities, says another respondent who lives in Norway to The Local.
The foreign residents were also impressed by the local economy, job security and business culture. Easy access to high-speed internet, cashless payment options and online solutions for public services were other areas the participants were very satisfied with.
Bad food and poor accommodation
Norway ranked low on access to housing. 48 percent reported that it was difficult to afford housing in Norway. Respondents in Norway were also dissatisfied with the high cost of living in general.
Lack of nightlife opportunities and culinary variety means that foreign citizens in Norway are only half as satisfied with food and drink service as the global average.