Tax Card in Norway: Why You Must Get It Before Your First Salary
If you start working in Norway without a tax card, your employer may deduct up to 50% tax. Learn how to get a tax card quickly and avoid this problem.
Published: March 14, 2026
What is a tax card in Norway?
A tax card (called skattekort in Norwegian) tells your employer how much tax to deduct from your salary.
Without a tax card, employers must automatically deduct 50% tax from your income.
This rule exists to prevent people from avoiding taxes.
Why you need a tax card
The tax card ensures that the correct tax percentage is deducted from your salary.
It helps you:
• avoid paying too much tax
• ensure correct tax reporting
• access Norwegian financial services
• receive correct tax settlement the following year
If you do not apply for a tax card, you may temporarily lose a large part of your salary.
Who needs a tax card
You need a tax card if you:
• work in Norway
• receive salary from a Norwegian employer
• are self-employed in Norway
• receive taxable income in Norway
Most newcomers must apply for a tax card when they start their first job.
How to get a tax card
The process is usually simple.
You can apply through Skatteetaten.
Typical steps:
Obtain a D-number or national identity number
Register as a taxpayer
Apply for a tax card online
Your employer automatically receives the tax card digitally
You normally do not need to give the tax card directly to your employer.
What information is required
When applying, you must provide an estimate of:
• expected annual income
• employment details
• residence status
If your income changes, you should update your tax card.
When you should apply
You should apply before your first salary payment.
If you start work without a tax card, the employer will apply the 50% tax rule until a tax card is registered.
Need help with Norwegian taxes?
The Norwegian tax system can be confusing for newcomers.
Consultants on Norwygo can help you apply for a tax card and avoid common mistakes.
