AdminNorway remains one of the world’s leading energy producers and exporters. Its oil and gas industry has been a driving force behind the nation’s wealth and continues to create thousands of job opportunities every year. Even as global energy markets shift toward renewables, Norway still depends heavily on petroleum production and offshore exploration — meaning skilled professionals are in high demand.
For foreign workers with experience in engineering, construction, drilling, or oilfield operations, Norway offers well-paid positions, strong labour protection, and visa sponsorship through legitimate employers. If you’re considering relocating for a better career in 2025, this guide explains everything you need to know about oil and gas jobs in Norway that provide work visa sponsorship.
Why Norway Remains a Global Oil and Gas Powerhouse
Norway’s oil and gas industry is vital to both its economy and Europe’s energy security. The country supplies large volumes of natural gas to the European Union and has become one of the world’s most stable producers. Even with renewable energy expansion, demand for petroleum engineers, offshore technicians, and field specialists remains high.
In 2025, Norway plans to expand drilling in the North Sea and Barents Sea, while investing heavily in carbon-capture projects and new gas pipelines. These developments mean continued job growth, especially in exploration, refining, maintenance, and environmental safety.
For skilled foreigners, this creates a strong opportunity to work legally in a high-income country under the skilled worker visa program.
Benefits of Working in Norway’s Oil and Gas Industry
Working in Norway’s oil and gas sector is more than a financial opportunity — it’s a lifestyle and career upgrade. Here are the main benefits:
- High salaries and tax benefits for skilled professionals
- Legal work status under the Skilled Worker Visa
- Access to Norway’s excellent healthcare and education system
- Generous vacation policies and work-life balance
- Modern offshore safety standards and world-class technology
- Possibility of permanent residency after a few years of employment
Foreign workers also enjoy safe working conditions, training support, and equal pay under Norwegian labour law. Most employers assist with relocation, housing, and family visa arrangements.
Who Can Apply for Oil and Gas Jobs in Norway
Norwegian employers are open to hiring international candidates who meet specific skill, experience, and certification requirements. You may qualify if you work in one of the following categories:
- Offshore Drilling and Production
- Mechanical, Electrical, or Petroleum Engineering
- Maintenance and Instrumentation
- Subsea Operations
- HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment)
- Pipeline and Construction Management
- Logistics and Support Services
- Project Planning and Control
Employers prefer candidates with several years of industry experience and certifications such as BOSIET, HUET, or NEBOSH, depending on the role.
In-Demand Oil and Gas Jobs in Norway 2025
Offshore Drilling Engineer
Drilling engineers plan and execute offshore drilling programs. They coordinate with rig supervisors and ensure operations meet safety and efficiency standards.
Average Salary: NOK 850,000 – 1,200,000 per year (≈ USD $80,000 – $110,000)
Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum engineers design and optimize extraction processes from oil and gas wells. They are vital for production efficiency and environmental compliance.
Average Salary: NOK 900,000 – 1,400,000 per year (≈ USD $85,000 – $130,000)
Mechanical Maintenance Technician
Technicians maintain and repair critical machinery used on platforms, refineries, and pipelines.
Average Salary: NOK 600,000 – 900,000 per year (≈ USD $55,000 – $85,000)
Electrical and Instrumentation Engineer
These engineers ensure control systems, sensors, and electrical networks function safely in offshore environments.
Average Salary: NOK 700,000 – 1,000,000 per year (≈ USD $65,000 – $95,000)
Subsea Engineer
Subsea engineers design and monitor underwater systems for pipelines and equipment. They often work on large-scale offshore installations.
Average Salary: NOK 950,000 – 1,300,000 per year (≈ USD $88,000 – $120,000)
Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Officer
HSE officers ensure that all operations comply with Norwegian and international safety standards.
Average Salary: NOK 750,000 – 1,050,000 per year (≈ USD $70,000 – $95,000)
Welding and Fabrication Specialist
Certified welders and fabricators work on offshore structures, oil rigs, and production facilities.
Average Salary: NOK 550,000 – 850,000 per year (≈ USD $50,000 – $80,000)
Project Manager – Oilfield Development
Project managers oversee timelines, budgets, and execution of exploration or construction projects.
Average Salary: NOK 1,000,000 – 1,600,000 per year (≈ USD $95,000 – $150,000)
Offshore Operator and Rig Crew
Operators handle day-to-day production activities on rigs, including pumping, cleaning, and system monitoring.
Average Salary: NOK 550,000 – 750,000 per year (≈ USD $50,000 – $70,000)
Logistics and Supply Coordinator
Responsible for scheduling shipments of equipment and personnel to offshore locations.
Average Salary: NOK 500,000 – 800,000 per year (≈ USD $45,000 – $75,000)
Salary Overview by Experience Level
| Position Level | Annual Salary (NOK) | Equivalent in USD |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | 500,000 – 700,000 | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| Mid-Level Professional | 750,000 – 1,000,000 | $70,000 – $90,000 |
| Senior Engineer / Manager | 1,100,000 – 1,500,000 | $100,000 – $135,000 |
| Offshore Specialist | 1,300,000 – 1,800,000 | $120,000 – $160,000 |
Salaries often include offshore allowances, bonuses, insurance coverage, and travel support.
Major Oil and Gas Companies Hiring Foreign Workers
Norway’s energy sector includes both international giants and homegrown firms that operate offshore platforms, refineries, and drilling operations. Many of these companies hold sponsorship licenses and regularly hire foreign experts.
Equinor ASA
Norway’s largest energy company and one of Europe’s top oil producers. Equinor hires engineers, offshore technicians, and environmental professionals from across the world.
Aker Solutions
A multinational engineering and industrial services company involved in oilfield construction, subsea systems, and renewable energy projects. Aker Solutions sponsors skilled foreign workers for long-term contracts.
Vår Energi
An expanding oil and gas company focused on the North Sea and Barents Sea projects. It employs drilling engineers, maintenance crews, and logistics professionals with international experience.
Kvaerner and Aibel
Both companies operate major fabrication yards and offshore installations, offering technical positions and project management roles for qualified foreign workers.
Baker Hughes and Schlumberger
These global oilfield service providers have significant operations in Norway. They sponsor international workers for specialized engineering, maintenance, and field operations positions.
Halliburton
Halliburton recruits offshore drilling engineers, field technicians, and subsea operators for its Norwegian operations, with full work permit sponsorship for skilled professionals.
These employers value experience, certification, and technical expertise — not nationality. Skilled foreign candidates with the right qualifications are welcome to apply.
Visa and Work Permit Process for Foreign Oil and Gas Workers
Foreign nationals need a Skilled Worker Visa to work legally in Norway. The process is straightforward if you receive a job offer from an approved employer.
Step 1: Job Offer
You must first secure a job offer that matches your qualifications. Employers provide details about your position, salary, and contract length.
Step 2: Employer Sponsorship
The company applies to the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) to sponsor your work permit. They submit documentation confirming your job role meets the skilled worker category.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You will then submit your visa application with required documents:
- Valid passport
- Job offer or employment contract
- Educational certificates
- Work experience letters
- Health and police clearances
- Proof of accommodation and funds
Step 4: Visa Processing
Visa approval can take between four to eight weeks. Once approved, you will receive a residence permit that allows you to live and work in Norway legally.
Step 5: Travel and Orientation
After arrival, you’ll register with the local police, receive your residence card, and complete safety orientation before starting offshore work.
Requirements for Eligibility
To qualify for oil and gas jobs with visa sponsorship, you generally need:
- A relevant bachelor’s degree or trade certificate
- At least two to five years of professional experience
- Proficiency in English (some roles require basic Norwegian)
- Valid industry certifications for offshore or technical work
- Good health and safety awareness
Experience in international projects or previous offshore employment improves your chances of selection.
How to Apply for Norway Oil and Gas Jobs
Follow these steps to increase your success rate:
- Prepare a professional CV that matches Norwegian job standards.
- Highlight certifications such as BOSIET, HUET, or NEBOSH.
- Search for oil and gas roles on verified job portals or company career pages.
- Apply directly to employers who mention “visa sponsorship available.”
- Complete video interviews confidently and demonstrate your technical knowledge.
- Wait for your job offer and sponsorship documents before applying for the visa.
Always verify that your employer is registered with Norwegian immigration authorities to issue sponsorship certificates. Genuine employers never request money for visa processing.
Life and Working Conditions in Norway
Norway offers one of the highest living standards in the world. Workers enjoy safe communities, reliable public services, and access to healthcare. The typical workweek is 37.5 hours, but offshore rotations vary — usually two weeks on, three weeks off. Accommodation and meals are provided on rigs.
The cost of living is high, but so are wages and benefits. Workers are entitled to paid vacations, pension contributions, and strong legal protection under Norwegian employment law. For families, education and childcare services are excellent and often free.
Tips for Success When Applying
- Research each employer’s sponsorship policy before applying.
- Tailor your CV to highlight project experience relevant to the North Sea or offshore work.
- Keep certifications current — outdated documents can delay hiring.
- Learn some Norwegian terms used in safety briefings and site communication.
- Apply early; visa slots for skilled workers fill up quickly.
- Stay alert for job scams and only communicate through official company emails.
Preparation and authenticity will make your application stand out.
Future Outlook for Oil and Gas Jobs in Norway
The future of Norway’s oil and gas industry remains strong. Even as renewable energy grows, oil and gas production will continue for decades. The government has approved new exploration licenses and carbon-capture projects to balance energy security with sustainability.
This transition means long-term job stability for engineers, geoscientists, technicians, and safety experts. Additionally, foreign professionals with renewable energy skills will find opportunities to work in hybrid oil-to-green-energy companies as Norway modernizes its energy systems.
By 2030, Norway aims to be a global leader in low-emission petroleum production — a goal that will continue to require the world’s best technical talent.
Conclusion
Norway oil and gas jobs with visa sponsorship in 2025 provide real, high-paying opportunities for skilled foreign professionals. The country’s stable economy, strong labour laws, and expanding offshore operations make it one of the most rewarding destinations for engineers, technicians, and specialists.
If you have the right qualifications, technical experience, and certifications, Norway welcomes your expertise. Prepare your documents, target verified employers, and apply through official channels. With determination and preparation, your next big career move could be in the heart of the North Sea — where opportunity meets innovation.
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