Norway boasts low unemployment. The country stands out in Europe

In January 2026, the number of fully unemployed people decreased by 900. NAV reported this information on Friday, January 30. The decline is visible despite seasonal fluctuations typical for the beginning of the year. The unemployment rate remains one of the lowest in over a decade.

According to non-seasonally adjusted data, there were 68,900 fully unemployed people registered in January. This accounts for 2.3 percent of the workforce. After seasonal adjustment, the number was about 62,640 people, corresponding to 2.1 percent of the active workforce.

NAV points out that such a low unemployment rate was last recorded in 2008, with the exception of the past four years. The decline in unemployment is noticeable, among others, in the construction sector, which has been improving its results for several months.

The highest unemployment affects people aged 20–24 and those over 30. Regionally, the most difficult situation is in Østfold. The data show the diversity of the labor market. However, the nationwide trend remains stable.

Handelsbanken experts told Nettavisen that the labor market remains resilient. The bank notes a slower increase in employment at the end of last year. At the same time, demand for workers remains relatively strong. According to analysts, the new data will not significantly affect Norges Bank's interest rate plans.

NAV emphasizes that the number of new job seekers in the last three months was lower than in the autumn. Data on job vacancies still indicate a demand for employees. At the same time, banks signal the possibility of a gradual increase in unemployment in the coming months.