Safety and Security

Norway has been subject to terrorist incidents in the past and the potential for terrorist incidents remain. In November 2014, Norway’s Police Security Service (PST) announced an increased risk of a possible attack in Norway aimed at police and military presence which was related to Norway’s support of the U.S.-led anti-ISIL coalition. In July 2014, Norway’s Minister of Justice announced a heightened terrorist threat posture, related to the return of foreign terrorist fighters from Syria and Iraq. Several years ago, a right-wing extremist attacked government buildings in Oslo and a youth camp on an island in the Oslo Fjord, leaving 77 dead. Like other countries in the Schengen area, Norway's open borders with its Western European neighbors allow the possibility of terrorists entering/exiting the country with anonymity. U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant with regard to their personal security and to exercise caution.

To stay connected:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.
• Follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and Facebook.
• Bookmark the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.
• Follow the U.S. Embassy in Norway’s website, Facebook and Twitter feed.
• In the event of an emergency, contact us at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the United States and Canada, or via a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries.
• Take some time before traveling to consider your personal security and checking for useful tips for traveling safely abroad.

CRIME: Norway has a relatively low level of crime in comparison to the United States and Western European countries. The most likely forms of crime, especially in the Oslo metropolitan area, include residential and office burglaries and petty thefts. In Oslo and other major urban areas, crime has been centered in the inner city and high transit areas. Instances of pick-pocketing and petty theft are common in major tourist areas, hotel lobbies, train, and transit stations, and surrounding areas. The Oslo Central train station is an especially popular area for pick-pockets and bag snatchers. Although rare, violent and weapons-related crimes do happen. These crimes usually occur in areas known to have drug trafficking and gang problems, such as certain parts of eastern Oslo. As in any other urban area, you should exercise basic security awareness at all times.

• Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal to bring back into the United States, but if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law. 

VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime in Norway, you should contact the local police and the U.S. embassy in Oslo. We can:

• Replace a stolen passport.
• Help you find appropriate medical care if you are the victim of violent crimes such as assault or rape.
• Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and if you want us to, contact family members or friends.
• Help you understand the local criminal justice process and direct you to local attorneys, although it is important to remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

Norway has a program to provide financial compensation to victims who suffer serious criminal injuries. Claimants can obtain application forms from the Norwegian Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority. Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Oslo for further information.

The national emergency telephone numbers in Norway, equivalent to the “911” emergency line, are: Police 112; Fire 110; and Ambulance 113.

Please see our information for victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.