How to open a bank account
- In Norway, anyone can open a deposit account and use the bank’s payment system. Wage earners must usually open a salary account/current account into which their salary is paid. There are also other types of accounts, e.g. various types of savings accounts or investment accounts with varying interest rates depending on the amount deposited.
- To open a bank account in Norway you need a national identity number (permanent or temporary) (skatteetaten.no) which you obtain when finalising your permit upon arrival. Note that the case processing time for national identity numbers is about two weeks, provided you have completed the EU/EEA registration or visa/residence permit process.
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For more information on things to keep in mind when opening your first bank account, please go to Oslo municipality's guidelines and information.
Choosing a bank
Largest banks in Norway
- SpareBank1 ?stlandet (sb1ostlandet.no)
- If you wish to become a customer with SpareBank1 ?stlandet, you must have received a permanent Norwegian ID number first. Please fill out their “Become a customer” form. You will need to enclose a copy of your passport, residence card from UDI/police (for persons coming from outside EU/EEA), letter from Tax Administration containing your permanent Norwegian ID number and employment contract.
- When asked which branch to choose to register your identification and sign documents, you may choose any of them. After you have submitted the form, you must send an email to arrange a meeting at the branch at Fornebu: harald.lofsgaard.mork@sb1ostlandet.no
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SpareBank1 ?stlandet at Fornebu is the physical branch you will visit to verify your identity in the process of becoming a customer. The address is Martin Linges vei 17, 1364 Fornebu - just a short bus trip from Oslo city centre.
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After 1-2 weeks, you will receive a SMS/text message when the contract/documents are ready to be signed at Fornebu.
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After this, your account will be activated and they will order a VISA debit card for you.
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The processing time for activating your account will be maximum 1 week.
- DNB (dnb.no)
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If you wish to become a customer with DNB - either with a Norwegian national identity number or a D-number - please fill out their "Become a customer" form, submit it and then follow the instructions DNB sends to your e-mail.
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Becoming a DNB costumer is free of charge.
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DNBs processing time is 4-6 weeks.
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If you choose to become a customer with DNB, DNB Karl Johan in Karl Johans gate 27 is the physical branch in Oslo you will visit to verify your identity in the process of becoming a customer
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- Nordea (nordea.no)
- Danske Bank (danskebank.no) (Norwegian)
Further information
ISMO's services
We offer advice on all questions related to opening a Norwegian bank account.