Europe

Terrorism

 

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

 

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

 

Crime

 

There are few safety concerns in Norway, but you should be aware of the dangers of theft, particularly in the airports and railway stations in and around Oslo.  The Embassy is frequently asked to assist British nationals who have had their valuables stolen just after they arrive in the county.  Sensible precautions should be observed and you should take extra care of your passport, money and credit cards.

 

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

 

Political Situation

Norway Country Profile

 

Local Travel

 

Road Travel

 

A valid UK, or other EU/EEA, driving licence is sufficient for driving in Norway if here as a visitor.  There is no need for an International Driving Permit.  You should ensure that you have arranged appropriate vehicle insurance cover prior to travelling. 

 

In 2007 there were 233 road deaths in Norway (source: DfT).  This equates to 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population the same average ratio as in the UK.

 

Distances are great and driving takes longer than you think.  Narrow and winding roads may be hazardous and impassable, especially in winter.  Winter tyres are mandatory from approximately 1 November to 15 April (exact dates can vary year on year).  You should keep headlights on at all times and observe speed limits, which are, in general significantly lower than in the UK.  Fines for exceeding the speed limit are high.  You should be aware that certain driving laws differ in Norway.  For example, on roads which are not marked with a priority sign (a yellow diamond), drivers must give way to traffic coming from the right.

 

Alcohol limits for drivers are far stricter than UK levels.  Roadside checks for alcohol are frequent, and submission to a breathalyser is mandatory.  Penalties for driving under the influence are severe and can lead to a prison sentence.  The 0.20ml limit means in effect no alcohol 12 hours before driving.

 

Road Hauliers

 

Since 1 November 2005, all vehicles with a maximum allowable total weight of over 3,500 kg are required to be equipped with snow chains when travelling in Norway.  A truckers’ guide issued by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration can be found in English at Donna Diesel.  It lists current regulations and useful information about driving in Norway.

 

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

 

Air Travel

 

The revised EU-wide security measures that came into effect for all passengers departing from UK airports in November 2006 are also being implemented in Norway.  For more details about this see Airline Security.