Norway Introduces New Rules to Attract More Foreign Workers

Norway has announced its plans to introduce new regulations to facilitate employment for foreigners, focusing on integrating refugees into the job market. The move will expand work program eligibility and extend training opportunities.

The new rules emphasize enhancing work-related activities for foreign workers, especially refugees, to boost workforce participation. After three months, the revised approach mandates that participants in shorter induction programs complete at least 15 hours of work-related activities each week. As a result, they will be more prepared for the workforce and become significant assets to the Norwegian economy.

Norwegian government expands integration programs to include foreign workers aged 55-60, aiming to increase employment opportunities for older refugees and diverse workforce contribution. New regulations extend the induction program for refugees pursuing formal education, focusing on longer training for better job prospects. Norway is enhancing the long-term employment prospects of foreign workers by offering an additional year for upper secondary education and vocational training. The Norwegian government aims to apply similar strategies to all foreign workers arriving in the country, following the successful integration of Ukrainian refugees into the workforce. Over 75,000 refugees have resettled in Norway, causing a significant influx of foreign workers, despite measures to control arrivals.

The new regulations seek to take advantage of this expanding pool of international labour while ensuring they have the training and opportunity needed to support the Norwegian economy. Minister of Employment and Inclusion Tonje Brenna emphasized the significance of a flexible regulatory framework to facilitate new initiatives. The Norwegian government aims to expedite the integration of foreign workers into society through language acquisition and meaningful, regulated job opportunities.

Norway's implementation of the new rules will enhance the workforce, meet increasing labour demands, and promote an inclusive economy that benefits foreign workers and society.