4,700 people temporarily laid off in Norway. Nearly half are still working

In September 2026, NAV recorded 4,713 people on temporary layoff. Of this group, 2,455 were completely out of work, while 2,258 were partially unemployed. This means that 47.9% of people in these statistics were on partial temporary layoff. The data include registered individuals who were granted benefits or who submitted an application and were not refused. These figures apply to all of Norway, regardless of the workers' nationality.

The highest number of people on temporary layoff was recorded in the following occupational groups:


Industry and construction together accounted for more than 40% of people on temporary layoff – according to our calculation based on NAV data. However, the high number of engineers and IT specialists shows that the problem also affects technical and office-based professions. Companies continue to view the future cautiously. In a report published on 22 September, NHO states that its surveyed member companies still expect activity to decline, despite a slight improvement in sentiment compared with the previous quarter.

For an employee, a work stoppage may mean fewer shifts, shorter days or a complete break from performing duties. During a temporary layoff, the employment relationship continues. The company temporarily reduces work, for example due to a lack of orders. The fact that you still go to work does not rule out the possibility of receiving dagpenger (unemployment benefits). In principle, however, your total working hours must be reduced by at least 50%. If you have several employers, the total number of hours is taken into account. NAV also checks your previous income and other conditions, including your availability for work. Therefore, not every reduction in working hours entitles you to benefits.

• Until when does the company pay? As a general rule, the employer pays wages for the first 15 working days of a temporary layoff. In the case of a partial temporary layoff, this period may be spread out over a longer time. Ask HR for a specific date.
• When should you submit an application? NAV recommends submitting it around two weeks before the final day of entitlement to wages. You must also register as a job seeker. Notification from your employer does not replace these formalities.
• When should you submit a meldekort? Reporting cards must be submitted every 14 days, including while waiting for a decision. You enter, among other things, the hours you have worked. A delay may result in a reduced payment or payments being suspended.

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Until when does your employer pay? Can you apply for benefits if you are still working part-time? What documents should you prepare? Start with a free consultation with MultiNOR. Consultants will review your documents and the conditions for applying for benefits, help you register with NAV and prepare your application. NAV decides whether to grant the benefit. I am on temporary layoff – I want to speak with MultiNOR Sources: NAV – temporary layoff statistics for September 2026 and information on dagpenger, employer obligations and meldekort; the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority; NHO – economic report published on 22 September 2026.