Norwegian identification numbers:
In Norway, we use identification numbers to identify inhabitants. The identification numbers are assigned by the Norwegian Tax Administration who is responsible for keeping the national registry updated. Many public and private sector organizations require you to have a Norwegian identification number in order for you to gain access to their services. There are two different types of identification numbers: a D-number and a national identity number. Both are unique identifying numbers consisting of 11 digits.
How to obtain an identification number?
Generally, to report a move to Norway and obtain an identification number, one must go to a tax office in person in order to submit a relocation notification and undergo an ID control. As from 7th February 2019, certain foreign nationals will no longer have to meet in person at a tax office. Instead, the police will submit this notification for you.
When you have been granted a residence permit in Norway you must meet at a police station within 7 days after your arrival in order to apply for a residence card. When you meet at the police to apply for a residence card, the police will send a notification to the Tax Administration requesting a new national identification number for you. The identification number will be sent in a letter to the address you have stated in connection with your residence permit application, this will take approx. 2 weeks. It is important to notify the police if your address in Norway has changed since you registered your application in the Application Portal.
The automatic assignment of an identification number applies to most persons from countries outside the EU/EEA who have been granted a residence permit in Norway.
Please note that EU/EEA nationals and their family members must still meet at a tax office. Persons who have been granted a permit as a seasonal worker will also have to meet at the tax office after arrival in Norway, but only until 28th March 2019.
More information about the Norwegian National Registry, including the Norwegian identification numbers: https://www.skatteetaten.no/en/person/national-registry/