Norway announces NOK 96 million more for integration. What could this mean for Poles?
More money for learning Norwegian and help with finding work – these are the government’s plans for 2027. The integration package is set to increase by NOK 96 million. Some of the measures may also be relevant to Poles who have lived in Norway for years, but the announcement does not automatically create eligibility for a new benefit or course.
Poles in Oslo
MN
According to Utrop, Minister of Labour and Integration Kjersti Stenseng presented the plans during a visit to Stavanger. The announced funds are to be included in the government’s proposed budget for 2027. Final funding will depend on its consideration by the Storting.
What will the money be used for?
| Purpose | Announced amount |
|---|---|
| Additional funding for Jobbsjansen | NOK 30 million |
| Continuation of additional funding for IMDi’s work related to people displaced from Ukraine | NOK 32 million |
| More flexible Norwegian language training | NOK 17.7 million |
| Pilot introductory programme for women who arrived through family reunification | NOK 8.8 million |
| IMDi measures to promote diversity in state institutions | NOK 5 million |
| A new assessment system for oral Norwegian examinations | NOK 2.5 million |
| Total | NOK 96 million |
Jobbsjansen – helping women enter the labour market
Jobbsjansen is aimed at women with migration experience who have limited contact with the labour market or remain outside it and need preparation for employment or education. Under the rules applicable in 2026, the main target group is women aged 18–55. The programme is based on individual support, and projects are organised by municipalities. If you live in Norway and want to return to work after a long break, it is worth asking your municipality whether it runs Jobbsjansen and what requirements must be met.
Norwegian language training also for people who have lived here for years
For some Poles, the existing norskopplæringsordningen may be of practical importance. IMDi states that the scheme is intended for adult immigrants who need to improve their Norwegian skills, regardless of how long they have lived in the country or why they came. It includes people who are not entitled to language training under the Integration Act or who have already used up such entitlement. Funded courses may take place in the evenings, online, or in a blended format. The rules for 2026 provide for a limited number of free hours, and eligible course providers apply for funding.
Where can you find information?
It is worth starting with the municipal adult education centre, known as voksenopplæring, and asking:
- Are there IMDi-funded courses for people who are not entitled to free training under the Integration Act?
- Is it possible to study in the evenings or online?
- What are the enrolment requirements, and are there any places available?
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