D number Norway – how to apply and who qualifies
A D number in Norway is a temporary identification number assigned to individuals from EEA countries who need to interact with Norwegian authorities but do not meet the requirements for a permanent national identity number (fødselsnummer).
The number is issued by Skatteetaten and is essential for legal employment, tax reporting, and certain administrative procedures.
What is a D number and what is it used for
A D number is an official identifier used when a person:
- stays in Norway for a limited period
- is not registered as a resident
- needs to be recorded in public systems
It is commonly required for:
- obtaining a tax deduction card (skattekort)
- working legally in Norway
- starting or operating a business
- interacting with public authorities
Who can get a D number (EEA citizens)
A D number is not granted automatically. You must demonstrate a legitimate administrative need.
Most common grounds
1. Employment in Norway
This is the most typical situation.
Process:
- apply for a tax deduction card
- verify your identity
- the D number is assigned automatically
Even part-time employment may be sufficient if it is genuine and documented.
2. Starting or running a business
You may receive a D number if you:
- register a sole proprietorship
- serve as a board member or owner of a company
3. Tax or legal obligations
Less commonly, a D number is issued when:
- you have taxable income in Norway
- you have formal ties to a Norwegian company
Does registering as a job seeker give the right to a D number
EEA citizens can stay in Norway for up to six months as job seekers after registering with UDI.
However:
👉 job seeker status alone is not sufficient to obtain a D number
👉 the number is typically issued only when a concrete administrative need arises (most often employment)
Registering with NAV without a D number
You can register as a job seeker with NAV without a D number using a valid identity document.
Access to benefits may be limited until eligibility is established through employment or contribution history.
Can you obtain a D number from abroad
In practice:
✔️ there is usually no standalone application solely for a D number
✔️ the number is issued as part of another administrative procedure
This means a formal basis (for example, an employment contract or tax obligation) is required before the number can be assigned.
Legal framework (expert overview)
The D number system is based on Norwegian administrative and population registration regulations, including:
- The Population Register Act (Folkeregisterloven)
- The Tax Administration Act (Skatteforvaltningsloven)
- Administrative guidelines published by Skatteetaten
- EEA residence rules explained by UDI
Official information can be found on the authorities’ websites, including pages about D numbers, EEA registration, and job seeker procedures.
D number vs national identity number
| Feature | D number | National identity number |
|---|---|---|
| Status | temporary | permanent |
| Residence registration | not required | required |
| Access to services | limited | full |
Step-by-step process
1️⃣ Obtain a valid basis (employment, business, or tax obligation)
2️⃣ Submit the relevant application or registration
3️⃣ Complete identity verification if required
4️⃣ Skatteetaten assigns the D number
5️⃣ You can then access tax and administrative services
FAQ
Is a D number required to work in Norway?
Yes, it is necessary for tax reporting and payroll registration.
How long does it take to receive a D number?
Typically from a few days to a few weeks after submitting the application.
Does a D number expire?
It can become inactive after a long period of non-use.
Summary
The D number is a key identifier for EEA citizens starting administrative or professional activities in Norway. It is most commonly obtained through employment or business registration and is generally not issued solely on the basis of residence or job seeking.
