Nanny and Maid Jobs in Norway: A Complete Guide
Domestic work—including nanny (childcare) and maid (household help) roles—is a viable option for people seeking employment in Norway. These jobs involve caring for children, maintaining homes, and supporting busy families with daily tasks. Here’s a detailed look at what these jobs involve, how to find them, and what you need to know if you want to work in Norway.
⸻
🇳🇴 1. Overview of Nanny & Maid Roles in Norway
In Norway, domestic workers can be employed in several roles:
👶 Nannies / Childcare Providers
•Responsible for caring for children: feeding, playtime, homework help, and safety.
•Duties may include light household tasks related to the children.
🧹 Maids / Housekeepers
•Keep homes clean and tidy: dusting, vacuuming, laundry, ironing, and organizing.
🏡 Live-in Helpers
•Some families offer live-in positions, where an employee lives on the family’s property and receives accommodation as part of their compensation.
These jobs can be full-time or part-time and may include benefits like paid holidays and social security if employed legally.
⸻
💼 2. Employment Conditions & Wages
Norway has strong labor protections and standards, ensuring domestic workers are treated fairly:
✔ Competitive wages compared with many countries.
✔ Legal employment contracts covering duties, hours, and pay.
✔ Social benefits such as healthcare and pension contributions when legally employed.
✔ Respectful work culture and safe conditions.
Typical Salary Ranges (approximate):
•Nanny / Childcare Provider: ~32,000 NOK/month (~USD 3,050)
•Housekeeper / Maid: ~30,000 NOK/month (~USD 2,860)
•Live-in Domestic Worker: ~28,000 NOK/month (~USD 2,670)
These figures vary by location, experience, and specific employer.
⸻
📋 3. Requirements to Work in Norway
To work legally in Norway as a nanny or maid, several conditions must be met:
➡ Work Permit / Visa
You must have valid work authorization first. A job offer from a Norwegian family or agency is normally required to start a visa application.
➡ Age & Experience
•Typically at least 18 years old.
•Prior experience is often preferred, especially for nanny positions.
➡ Documentation
•Clean criminal record (police clearance).
•Medical fitness proof may be needed.
•Employment contract outlining salary, hours, and duties.
➡ Language Skills
Basic English is usually helpful, and knowledge of Norwegian can be a plus.
⸻
🛂 4. Visa Options & Pathways
There are several ways foreigners can legally work:
1. Skilled Worker Visa
If the position qualifies as skilled domestic work, you may get a work permit for up to 3 years.
2. Au Pair Visa
Au pairs help with childcare and light housework as part of a cultural exchange program. They receive pocket money, free lodging, and language support, but cannot work as a regular nanny or maid or for other employers.
3. Seasonal Work Visa
Short-term positions like gardening or household help in peak seasons.
4. Family Immigration or Permanent Residency
If you have a family member already in Norway, you might be eligible for open work rights.
⸻
🧭 5. How to Find Jobs
Here are common ways to secure nanny or maid jobs in Norway:
Tips for Applicants:
•Prepare a CV with references (especially childcare experience).
•Learn basic Norwegian or English to increase opportunities.
•Confirm legal employment status before accepting work.
⸻
🧠 6. Important Considerations
⚖ Legal Protection: Working without a proper visa or contract can expose you to exploitation and lack of worker rights—Norwegian law strongly regulates employment.
🗣 Cultural Fit: Norwegian families value independence, communication, and respect. Being proactive and adaptable helps in long-term placements.
👩🏫 Training & Growth: Skills such as early childhood education, housekeeping efficiency, and language ability boost employability and pay.
⸻
Conclusion
Nanny and maid jobs in Norway can offer good salaries, social protections, and a quality work environment. However, they require proper documentation, contracts, and adherence to local regulations. With the right preparation, these roles can be a rewarding way to work abroad, gain experience, and potentially build a long-term life in Norway.