Which Norwegian industries have a minimum wage, and how much do they pay in 2025?
The average monthly wage in Norway is 59,730 kroner, according to figures from national data agency Statistics Norway. This is around 5,300 dollars, 5,120 euros or 4,260 pounds.
Being the average, this figure is pulled up by the very highest earners. However, this average monthly wage also exists despite the fact there isn't a national minimum wage that applies to all workers.
This is because the 'Norwegian working model' relies on working conditions being decided through a mix of law and collective bargaining agreements between unions and employers.
Although there isn't a minimum wage covering all occupations in Norway, there is still a minimum wage for specific industries. The minimum wage is implemented in several sectors, particularly those with many international and temporary workers, or in industries where it is hard to unionise.
The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet) is responsible for ensuring that working conditions and minimum wage are met. However, depending on various factors, such as skill level, overtime and working hours, the employer may be legally obligated to pay a higher wage.
Construction, maritime construction, agriculture and horticulture, cleaning, fish processing, electrical work, freight transportation, the tour bus industry, and the hotel, restaurant, and catering industries are the sectors in Norway that have minimum wages.
The minimum wages are adjusted regularly, typically in the autumn and then come into force shortly afterwards.
How much is the minimum wage in these industries?
For those in the electrical trades, the rate for skilled workers (those with relevant qualifications) is 257.79 kroner, while other workers are paid 229.11 kroner.
Cleaners are paid an hourly rate of at least 227.54 kroner, with those under 18 earning 176.55 kroner. There is also a supplement for cleaners who work between 9pm and 6am, and they must receive at least 29 kroner per hour extra.
Travel time between assignments must either be added to the number of hours worked or remunerated separately. How this is calculated will differ between companies.
Skilled construction workers are entitled to 259.30 kroner per hour. If they don't have experience in the industry, this drops to 226.90 kroner, while unskilled workers with experience will make 235.80 kroner. Employers will also need to provide necessary work clothing and protective footwear suited to the time of year.
Those working in hotels, catering, and restaurants will be paid 159.34 kroner (with lower rates for employees under 18). Those over 20 can expect to take home a minimum of 197.79 kroner. Tips in Norway are declared by the employer and taxed.
Workers in the road haulage industry working with vehicles that weigh more than 3.5 tons will be entitled to 222 kroner per hour.
There are slight differences for temporary and permanent workers in the agriculture and horticulture sectors. The minimum range between 155.90 kroner and 175.80 kroner, depending on whether the position is temporary or permanent. Skilled workers with permanent contracts will earn an additional 14.50 kroner per hour, or 190.30 kroner in total.
Employees in the fisheries sector will earn 231.15 kroner if classed as skilled workers, while those involved in production will take home at least 216.12 kroner.
Finally, those in maritime construction will earn between 211.79 and 192.61 kroner depending on whether they are classed as a skilled worker. Those who are required to stay away from home overnight will be paid between 42.36 and 38.52 kroner per hour extra depending on their qualifications.
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