How to get a phone number in Norway (and why you actually need one!)
When you first move to Norway, getting a local phone number might not seem urgent, especially if your foreign SIM still works, right?
That was my experience: I actually didn’t get a Norwegian phone number until I’d been living in Oslo for almost a year. I kept trying to convince myself and rationalize that it wasn’t needed. I asked my Norwegian partner to pay for things with Vipps for me. I struggled with filling in forms that wouldn’t allow me to put in a different country code… And after enough time trying (and failing) to sign up for services, apply for jobs, or use essential apps, I quickly realized that having a Norwegian phone number (+47) isn’t just convenient—it’s essential.
Why a Norwegian number matters
Trying to do basic, everyday tasks in Norway without a Norwegian phone number? Good luck, friends!
In Norway, your phone number is connected to almost everything:
Vipps (the mobile payment app everyone uses)
Job and apartment applications (people might not answer international calls as readily)
Banking, healthcare, and government logins
Even things like signing up for electricity, internet, or a haircut appointment
Without a local number, you might miss important SMS codes, and locals are often less likely to answer or return international calls.
Take it from me: getting that +47 is one of the first steps to feeling settled and “officially” local.
Types of mobile plans in Norway: prepaid vs subscription
It took me a while to wrap my head around how Norwegian mobile plans actually work, so here’s the breakdown I wish I’d had when I arrived.
Norway has three main mobile networks: Telenor, Telia, and Ice. Smaller providers like MyCall, Chilimobil, and Lycamobile use these same networks, often with better flexibility or lower prices.
Prepaid (Kontantkort)
Most internationals start with a prepaid SIM card (kontantkort) because it’s the fastest and easiest way to get a Norwegian number, even without a D-number or BankID. You can buy one in minutes at Narvesen, 7-Eleven, or online. Registration is simple, and all you need is your passport.
Benefits of prepaid plans:
Full cost control: you pay upfront, so there are no surprise bills or hidden fees.
No credit check or contract: cancel or switch anytime without penalties.
No invoices or deadlines: you’ll never risk getting an inkasso (debt collection notice).
Perfect for newcomers or anyone staying short-term.
Once you’re more settled and have your D-number or fødselsnummer, you might want to switch to a subscription for better value.
Subscription (Abonnement)
A monthly plan is the next step once you’re registered in Norway. Subscriptions usually come with more data, unlimited calls and texts, and better long-term pricing. So once people get a D-Number, they often switch to a subscription.
Benefits of subscriptions:
Predictable monthly payments: you always know how much you’ll pay.
Often cheaper per gigabyte than prepaid.
Builds your Norwegian credit history if you pay by invoice.
Just note that most carriers require BankID, a Norwegian ID number, and sometimes a credit check to approve your subscription.
Why many internationals choose Mycall: mobile subscriptions without the D-Number
Mycall is the only operator in Norway that gives you a full monthly plan right away, with no BankID or D-Number required. You can get a full plan immediately:
Register online using your passport via MyID
Manage your plan easily in the MyCall app
Enjoy reliable Telia coverage across Norway
Top up anytime via Vipps, card, or in-store at Narvesen or 7-Eleven
MyCall is also designed specifically for internationals, offering affordable international calls, data packages for travelers, and multilingual customer support. Starter packs begin at 49 NOK, and you can switch, top up, or upgrade anytime (without changing your number!).
This is one of the reasons I’ve partnered up with Mycall: They offer affordable international calls, flexible data packages for travelers, and multilingual customer support that actually understands the challenges of settling in here.
Because something as small as getting a local phone number can make a huge difference in feeling at home here!
Note: This blog post isn’t sponsored by Mycall. I do have an ongoing collaboration with them on social media, but this post was written independently as part of our mission to make everyday life in Norway easier for internationals! Unlock Norway does not receive any commission for link clicks or sales.
Your next step to feeling at home in Norway
Getting a Norwegian phone number might seem like a small administrative task, but it makes a big difference. It helps you navigate daily life more smoothly, from using Vipps to landing your first job interview.
So, if you’re still using your foreign number, consider this your sign: it’s time to go local. Get that +47… it’s one of the smartest first steps you can take in Norway.
