Work, employment and employment contracts

What job can you have?

You can take a job if you're 13 years of age or older. Between the ages of 13 and 15, you’re only allowed to perform light work. Between the ages of 15 and 18, you can do most kinds of work. However, you need to have special training and follow-up from the employer if the work may be dangerous and requires special caution. You cannot work overtime, nor can you work between the hours of 23:00 and 6:00 until you've turned 18. Your combined daily work and school hours must not exceed eight hours.

There are special age limits for operating machinery and cranes, for certain agricultural work and for building and construction. Special age limits also apply to selling tobacco and serving alcohol.

Employment contract

You’re entitled to a written contract of employment from your employer. The employment contract must clearly state your salary, working hours and duties.

You can read more about working environment, protection against dismissal, employment contracts, holiday pay etc. at arbeidstilsynet.no. You can find detailed information especially for young people and work here (in Norwegian only).

Employment

Tax-free odd jobs

What's not taxable?

  • employment income up to NOK 1,000 from an employer (you can have several employers per year and earn up to NOK 1,000 from each)
  • employment income up to NOK 6,000 if you work in the employer's home (e.g. child-minding, lawn mowing and snow clearing)
  • employment income up to NOK 10,000 if the employer is a non-profit organisation (sports club, marching band etc.) 

Payslip

Each time you receive your salary, your employer must give you a payslip. The payslip must show your salary and how much has been deducted in tax. The payslip is also a receipt for tax paid. Look after it!

Sickness benefit

If you cannot work because you’re sick, you may be entitled to sickness benefit. See nav.no or contact NAV for more information about sickness benefit.

Holidays and holiday pay

 You can read all about your rights and obligations regarding holidays and holiday pay at arbeidstilsynet.no.

Read more about hobbies, extra income and odd jobs