Moving to Norway comes with its fair share of adjustments—figuring out where to live, how to handle daily expenses, and of course, how to stay connected. For many expats, getting a mobile phone is one of the first practical steps after arrival. But buying a phone outright in Norway can be expensive. Luckily, most mobile providers and electronics stores offer installment plans (called “mobil på avbetaling“) that make it possible to pay off your new phone over time.
Let’s explore how it works, what to expect, and what you should be aware of before signing an installment agreement as a foreigner in Norway.
The Reality of Mobile Prices in Norway
Mobile phones in Norway are not cheap. A new iPhone or Samsung Galaxy often costs between 10,000 and 15,000 NOK. Even mid-range models can reach 6,000 to 8,000 NOK. That’s a big upfront cost, especially for expats who have just arrived and are still settling in.
Because of this, buying a phone on installment is a popular option. Instead of paying the full amount right away, you split the cost into manageable monthly payments. This allows you to get the phone you want immediately without draining your savings.
Most Norwegians use this system, so as an expat, you’ll fit right in by choosing it. However, the process can be slightly more complicated if you’re new to the country and don’t yet have a long credit history.
Understanding How Installments Work
When you buy a phone on installment in Norway, you usually do so through either:
- A mobile carrier (like Telenor, Telia, Ice, or OneCall)
- An electronics store (like Elkjøp, Power, or Komplett)
The idea is simple: the total cost of the phone is divided over 12, 24, or sometimes 36 months. You then pay a fixed amount each month along with your regular phone bill.
For example, if a phone costs 12,000 NOK and you choose a 24-month plan, you might pay around 500 NOK per month, depending on the provider and whether they charge interest or administrative fees.
Most companies run a credit check before approving your installment plan. This is where being an expat can create challenges, as you need to have a Norwegian personal identification number (personnummer or D-number) and sometimes a registered address.
What You Need to Apply
To buy a mobile phone on installment in Norway, you’ll typically need:
- A Norwegian ID number (D-number or permanent personnummer)
- Proof of income (such as an employment contract or recent pay slips)
- A Norwegian address
- A bank account in Norway
If you’ve recently arrived and don’t yet have all these in place, it might be easier to buy a prepaid phone or a cheaper model outright until your paperwork is settled. Once your ID number and bank account are ready, you’ll have more options.
Some electronics retailers are more flexible than telecom companies, especially if you can show that you’re employed and have a stable income.
Buying Through a Mobile Provider
If you choose to buy through a mobile operator, you usually sign a contract that includes both your mobile plan and your phone. This setup is convenient—you get one monthly bill for both services.
Telenor and Telia, Norway’s two largest operators, both offer installment plans for up to three years. The main advantage is that the approval process is straightforward once you have your ID and Norwegian bank details. You can even manage your payments online through your customer account.
However, it’s important to read the fine print. If you cancel your plan early or move out of Norway, you’re still responsible for paying off the remaining balance on the phone. The carrier may also require you to pay everything at once if you terminate the contract before it ends.
Buying Through an Electronics Store
Buying through a store like Elkjøp or Power gives you a bit more flexibility. These retailers often partner with financing companies like Santander Consumer Bank or Klarna to handle installment payments.
You don’t necessarily need to sign up for a mobile subscription to buy the phone this way, which means you can use any SIM card or mobile operator you like.
Approval depends on a quick credit assessment. Expats with a Norwegian job and address usually have no problem getting approved, but if you’re a student or self-employed, it can take more effort. Some financing companies may ask for additional documentation before approving the purchase.
Common Terms and Conditions
Installment plans often come with specific terms. Most are interest-free if you pay on time, but some may charge administrative fees or late payment penalties.
You’ll usually be asked to choose the repayment period—commonly 12, 24, or 36 months. Shorter terms mean higher monthly payments but less total cost over time. Longer terms make each payment smaller but can include small extra fees.
Keep in mind that missing a payment can affect your credit score in Norway. It’s rare, but consistent late payments could make it harder to get other types of credit later, like internet or electricity subscriptions.
Can Expats Without Credit History Buy on Installment?
Yes, but it depends on your situation. If you’re employed full-time and have a D-number or personnummer, most companies will accept your application. Students with part-time jobs or those new to Norway may face challenges at first.
Some providers allow you to pay a small upfront deposit to increase your chances of approval. Another option is to have a Norwegian friend or colleague co-sign the agreement, although that’s less common.
The key is to show stability—proof that you live in Norway, work here, and can handle