Norway has made it easier for foreign-trained staff to work in kindergartens by updating qualification rules.

Applications to recognise foreign early childhood qualifications in Norway have risen sharply in recent years, but approval rates remain low. The new rules aim to help more qualified workers enter the sector while keeping standards high.

Under the new rules, applicants now need just six months of relevant experience, down from previous requirements. This change will be introduced in two stages:

• From January 2025: six months of full-time work.

• From December 2025: six months in a part-time role (at least 50% of full-time hours)

Relevant experience can include language training placements, work practice schemes, or studies related to early childhood education. This change recognises that many newcomers balance work, language learning, and family responsibilities.

The government expects these changes to speed up qualification approvals and help more workers secure stable jobs in kindergartens.

For more information: https://hkdir.no/utdanning-fra-utlandet/jeg-har-utdanning-fra-utlandet/sok-godkjenning-som-styrer-eller-pedagogisk-leder-i-barnehage/om-godkjenning-som-styrer-eller-pedagogisk-leder 

Source: Eurydice Unit Norway