July 14, 2025
The general application of collective agreements in Norway ensures that all workers in shipbuilding receive at least the statutory minimum conditions. This includes:
Whether you are a direct employer or a subcontractor, the rules apply equally—regardless of the worker's nationality or employment contract.
Wage levels vary depending on skills and formal qualifications.
A skilled worker is someone who has completed vocational training in their field and holds a recognized trade certificate (e.g., a Norwegian fagbrev or equivalent recognized by NOKUT).
Workers without vocational certification are considered unskilled—even if they have practical experience.
Skilled workers | NOK 216.79
Semi-skilled workers | NOK 207.14
Unskilled workers | N|OK 197.61
In addition to base pay, workers are entitled to extra compensation:
Norwegian law requires employers to provide more than just wages. Specific rules apply to foreign workers posted temporarily to Norway.
Accommodation provided by the employer must:
Employers are legally required to:
Whether you’re planning to post workers temporarily or operate permanently in Norway, it’s critical to understand the labour regulations that apply to your sector. Non-compliance can result in:
We help foreign companies navigate Norwegian regulations for shipbuilding, ship repair, and offshore-related projects.
This article provides an overview of employer obligations when posting workers to Norway’s shipbuilding sector, including wages, accommodation, travel, and workwear.
👷 Who Is Covered by the Shipbuilding Industry Regulations?
The general application of collective agreements in Norway ensures that all workers in shipbuilding receive at least the statutory minimum conditions. This includes:
- Welding and steelwork
- Mechanical assembly
- Surface treatment and insulation
- Electric installations on ships and offshore structures
- Outfitting and finishing work
Whether you are a direct employer or a subcontractor, the rules apply equally—regardless of the worker's nationality or employment contract.
🛠 Skilled vs Unskilled Workers in the Shipbuilding Sector
Wage levels vary depending on skills and formal qualifications.
🔧 Skilled Workers (Faglært)
A skilled worker is someone who has completed vocational training in their field and holds a recognized trade certificate (e.g., a Norwegian fagbrev or equivalent recognized by NOKUT).
🪛 Unskilled Workers (Ufaglært)
Workers without vocational certification are considered unskilled—even if they have practical experience.
💰 Minimum Wage Rates in Norwegian Shipyards (from 15.06.2025)
Skilled workers | NOK 216.79
Semi-skilled workers | NOK 207.14
Unskilled workers | N|OK 197.61
🌙 Shift and Night Work Supplements
In addition to base pay, workers are entitled to extra compensation:
Night shift (21:00–06:00) | 43.36 (skilled)
| 41.43 (semi-skilled)
| 39.52 (unskilled)
| 41.43 (semi-skilled)
| 39.52 (unskilled)
⏱ Overtime, Travel, and Accommodation – Additional Employer Obligations
Norwegian law requires employers to provide more than just wages. Specific rules apply to foreign workers posted temporarily to Norway.
⏰ Overtime
- Paid at minimum 50% extra above the normal hourly rate.
- If overtime occurs on Sundays or public holidays, the premium must be at least 100%.
- Overtime applies regardless of whether hours are later compensated with time off.
🚆 Travel Expenses
- Employers must pay for travel to and from the worksite.
- A defined number of return trips home must also be covered during long-term assignments.
🏠 Accommodation Requirements
Accommodation provided by the employer must:
- Be safe, clean, and equipped with kitchen and bathroom facilities
- Offer individual beds (no hot-bedding)
- Meet Arbeidstilsynet’s inspection standards
🍽️ Meals & Daily Allowance
- Employers must either provide meals or pay a daily allowance (per diem).
- Reimbursement of actual meal expenses is also acceptable (with receipts).
👕 Workwear and Safety Equipment
Employers are legally required to:
- Provide necessary protective clothing and footwear free of charge
- Replace workwear when it becomes worn or damaged
- Ensure equipment complies with Norwegian health and safety regulations
✅ Summary: Employer Checklist for Norwegian Shipbuilding
- ✅ Pay correct minimum wage based on skill level
- ✅ Add shift, night, and overtime premiums
- ✅ Cover travel and accommodation for posted workers
- ✅ Provide meals or daily allowance
- ✅ Supply new workwear and PPE
- ✅ Keep written agreements for each assignment
- ✅ Ensure compliance across subcontractors and project partners
🇳🇴 How to prepera you company to work in Norwegian Shipyards?
Whether you’re planning to post workers temporarily or operate permanently in Norway, it’s critical to understand the labour regulations that apply to your sector. Non-compliance can result in:
- Inspections and sanctions from Arbeidstilsynet
- Orders for back pay to workers
- Exclusion from future tenders or contracts
We help foreign companies navigate Norwegian regulations for shipbuilding, ship repair, and offshore-related projects.
Author: Anna Korpalska
Sources:Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet)
Graphics:Canva
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