Bergen, Norway

Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa
  If you’re a non-Norwegian citizen from outside the EU/EEA, you will need a Schengen visa for visits to Bergen, which allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
• Visa on Arrival (VOA)
  Norway does not offer a visa on arrival. Visitors must apply for a visa in advance unless they come from a country within the Schengen Area or those that enjoy visa-free access under the Visa Waiver Program.
• Digital Nomad Visa
  As of now, Norway does not offer a specific Digital Nomad Visa. Remote workers may need to apply for a self-employment visa or other appropriate visa types based on their work arrangements.

For visa information, visit the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration.

Cost of Living

• Accommodation
  • Budget: Basic hostels or guesthouses will cost around $60-120 per night.
  • Mid-range: Comfortable hotels or private apartments in the city center range from $150-250 per night.
  • Luxury: Upscale hotels or luxury resorts in Bergen range from $300-600 per night.
• Food
  • Street Food: Street food or casual dining (like hot dogs, sandwiches) will cost around $10-15.
  • Mid-range Restaurants: For a meal at a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay around $25-50 for a three-course meal for one.
  • Fine Dining: High-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $75-150 per person for a gourmet experience.
• Transportation
  • Public Transport: Bergen’s public transportation system, which includes buses and a light rail, has fares starting at $4.50 for a single ride.
  • Taxis: Starting fare is $10, with an additional $2-3 per kilometer.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car typically costs $40-80 per day.
• Healthcare
  Healthcare in Norway is of high quality, and public healthcare is subsidized by the government. For tourists or expats, a general doctor’s consultation will cost between $100-200. However, most people opt for insurance to cover additional costs.

Climate & Weather

Bergen is known for its wet weather, earning the nickname “The Rainy City.” The climate is classified as oceanic, with mild winters and cool summers.

• Summer (June-August): Temperatures range from 50°F-65°F (10°C-18°C). Summer is the best time to visit, with longer days and a chance to explore the fjords.
• Fall (September-November): Temperatures drop to 40°F-55°F (5°C-13°C), and rainfall increases. This is a great time for fewer crowds and stunning fall colors in nature.
• Winter (December-February): The city’s temperatures hover around 25°F-40°F (-4°C to 4°C), with light snow and overcast skies.
• Spring (March-May): Temperatures rise to 35°F-55°F (2°C-13°C), and the weather is more unpredictable with occasional rain showers.

Landscape

Bergen’s landscape is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including mountains, fjords, and coastal waters. Some of the top attractions include the Mount Fløyen for panoramic views, the Hardangerfjord, and nearby hiking trails. The city is nestled between seven mountains, which provide great opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. Bergen’s architecture also reflects its past as a major trading port, particularly in the Bryggen area with its colorful wooden buildings.

Things to Do

• Heritage Sites
  • Bryggen Wharf: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area features colorful wooden houses that date back to the Hanseatic period.
  • Bergenhus Fortress: A historic site located by the water, offering insights into Norway’s military history.
  • Troldhaugen: The former home of famous composer Edvard Grieg, now a museum.
• Adventure Activities
  • Fjord Tours: A must-do while in Bergen, with scenic cruises through nearby fjords like Sognefjord and Nærøyfjord.
  • Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails surrounding Bergen, including Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken for panoramic views.
• Nightlife
  Bergen has a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly around the Bryggen area, with bars, live music venues, and nightclubs. The city has a more relaxed vibe compared to Oslo, but it’s still a great spot for nightlife.
• Wellness Retreats
  There are several spas and wellness centers offering traditional Norwegian treatments, like saunas, massage therapy, and hydrotherapy. Many hotels also offer wellness packages for guests.
• Shopping
  The Bergenhus area and Torgalmenningen square offer a variety of shops, from luxury boutiques to quirky local stores selling handmade crafts and Norwegian goods.

Lifestyle

Bergen’s lifestyle is influenced by its proximity to nature. Locals enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and cycling. Bergen also has a strong emphasis on sustainability, with many initiatives focused on green living.

Bergen is an easy city to integrate into, with a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of cultural events. Expats often find it easy to connect with the local community through activities like art exhibitions, music festivals, and food markets.

Other Important Locations in Norway

• Oslo: The capital city of Norway, known for its museums, culture, and modern architecture.
• Stavanger: A coastal city famous for its oil industry and proximity to the Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock).
• Tromsø: Located above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is a great place to experience the Northern Lights.

Rental Accommodations

• Budget: Hostels or guesthouses range from $50-100 per night.
• Mid-range: Average hotels or apartments in the city center cost around $150-250 per night.
• Luxury: Luxury hotels or waterfront properties start at $300-600 per night.

Co-Working Facilities and Costs

Bergen has a growing number of co-working spaces, especially for digital nomads and remote workers. Popular spots include Bergen Workspaces and Kontor Bergen. Monthly membership costs range from $150-300 depending on the facilities.

Connectivity

• WiFi: Bergen offers reliable and high-speed WiFi in hotels, cafes, and coworking spaces. Free public WiFi is available in many tourist areas and transportation hubs.
• SIM: Telenor, Telia, and Ice are the main providers, offering prepaid SIM cards with flexible data plans. SIM cards can be purchased at supermarkets or kiosks.

Volunteering Opportunities

Bergen offers many volunteering opportunities, particularly in the fields of environmental sustainability, arts and culture, and social services. Volunteers can work with organizations like The Bergen Volunteer Center or Bergen’s Food Bank.

Local Employment Options

• Tourism roles in guiding or hospitality.
• Teaching English or other foreign languages.
• Jobs in renewable energy or maritime industries.

Real Estate Investment Options

Real estate in Bergen is relatively expensive, particularly for properties near the city center or waterfront. Prices for apartments range from $200,000-500,000, depending on location and size, with luxury homes fetching even higher prices. Rental yields are attractive for investors, with good demand from tourists and expats.

Start-Up Ecosystem

Bergen has a growing start-up ecosystem, especially in the fields of technology, renewable energy, and tourism. Local start-up incubators and co-working spaces foster innovation, and the city is well-connected to Norway’s other major business hubs.

Business Setup Process for Expats

1. Choose Your Business Structure: Options include sole proprietorship, limited liability company (AS), or branch office.
2. Register Your Business: All businesses must be registered with Brønnøysund Register Centre.
3. Get a Norwegian Tax ID: You will need to apply for a D-number (a tax identification number).
4. Open a Business Bank Account: Required for handling financial transactions.
5. Obtain Permits and Licenses: Depending on the type of business, you may need specific licenses.
6. File Taxes: Ensure you follow the proper tax procedures with both the Norwegian Tax Administration and local authorities.

Business Opportunities

• Tech and IT: Bergen is emerging as a center for innovation in software development, AI, and cybersecurity.
• Tourism and Hospitality: As a popular tourist destination, there are opportunities in travel agencies, hotels, restaurants, and tour guides.
• Renewable Energy: Norway is a leader in sustainable energy, and there are opportunities in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
• Maritime: Bergen’s long history in shipping and maritime industries continues to offer opportunities in logistics, shipping, and marine technology.
• Food and Beverage: With a strong culinary scene, there are growing opportunities in high-end dining, local food products, and cafes.