First week checklist Oslo 2026

I'm Maja Sørensen, a 28-year-old marketing professional from Bergen, relocating to Oslo for a new job opportunity. My budget for the move is moderate, aiming for a comfortable lifestyle in the city. I plan to settle in the vibrant Grünerløkka area and have a timeline of one week to get everything in order.

Upon arriving in Oslo, I started my day by checking into my temporary accommodation in Grünerløkka. The first task was to secure a local SIM card, which I found at a nearby store. This was crucial for staying connected and accessing local services. I also took a stroll around the neighborhood to familiarize myself with the area, noting down grocery stores, cafes, and public transport stops. It's essential to have a local map or app handy to navigate the city efficiently.

The second day was dedicated to opening a Norwegian bank account. I visited DNB, one of the largest banks in Norway, equipped with my passport and proof of residence. The process was straightforward, and I received my bank card on the spot. Having a local bank account is essential for managing finances, especially for paying rent and utilities. I also set up online banking, which made transactions much easier.

On the third day, I focused on setting up utilities in my new apartment. I contacted Elvia for electricity and Viken Fiber for internet. The customer service was helpful, guiding me through the process. It's important to schedule these services in advance, as they can take a few days to activate. I also made sure to register for a waste collection service, which is mandatory in Oslo.

With utilities sorted, I spent day four exploring Oslo's public transport system. I purchased an Ruter travel card, which allows unlimited travel on buses, trams, and the metro. I took a ride to the city center to visit iconic spots like the Oslo Opera House and Aker Brygge. Familiarizing myself with the transport routes not only helped me navigate the city but also gave me a sense of its layout.

By day five, it was time to stock up on groceries. I visited Rema 1000, a popular supermarket chain, where I found a variety of local and international products. I also explored a few local eateries to get a taste of Norwegian cuisine. Trying traditional dishes like rakfisk and klippfisk was a delightful experience. It's important to budget for groceries, as prices can be higher than expected.

On day six, I registered with the local authorities at the Oslo Tax Administration. This step is crucial for obtaining a personal identification number, which is necessary for work and accessing healthcare services. The staff were friendly and guided me through the paperwork. I also learned about local healthcare options, which I plan to explore further.

The final day of my first week was dedicated to networking. I attended a local meetup for marketing professionals at a café in Grünerløkka. This was a great opportunity to meet new people and learn about the local job market. I also took some time to relax and reflect on my first week, ensuring I had everything in place for my new life in Oslo.

One common mistake newcomers make is underestimating the time it takes to set up utilities and banking. It’s crucial to start these processes as soon as you arrive. Additionally, many overlook the importance of familiarizing themselves with public transport, which can be daunting at first. Lastly, budgeting for groceries and dining out is essential, as costs can quickly add up in Oslo.

During my first week in Oslo, I tracked my expenses to get a better understanding of the cost of living. Here’s a breakdown:

• Temporary accommodation: £500
• SIM card: £30
• Bank account fees: £10
• Utilities setup: £150
• Groceries: £100
• Public transport: £40
• Dining out: £80

Total: £910. This helped me adjust my budget for the upcoming months.