Welcome to Bergen

Buddy programme

The buddy programme is designed to make you feel welcome and at home during your stay by offering you to be part of a buddy group. Your buddies will introduce you to the city of Bergen and include you in the regular campus life. In addition, the group will participate in social activities arranged by the student assistant or by yourself.

Student assistant

HVL employs a student assistant on each campus. He or she is responsible for the buddy programme, for organizing activities, and for including our exchange students in student activities on campus. If you have any questions, need help in any way, or just want to have a chat, you can contact the student assistant. You will be introduced to them before arrival.

Orientation Days

All our international exchange students are strongly advised to participate in the Orientation Days in the beginning of each semester (mid-August and the beginning of January). The Orientation Days is a mix of lectures and social activities. It is an excellent opportunity for you to meet other newly arrived exchange students and receive important information and practical support.

Registration after arrival

Full degree students will receive a letter from HVL with information about time and place for registration. Exchange students must register during Orientation Days or at the Student Information Centre. Information about registration will be provided via email before arrival.

Registration with local authorities

International students who plan to stay in Norway for more than three months must make a preliminary online registration with the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) at https://selfservice.udi.no. (Note, special arrangements for Nordic nationals).

Upon arrival in Norway you will have to register with the Service Centre for Foreign Workers (SUA). Remember to bring the following documents:

• Passport
• Letter of Acceptance
• Financial declaration
• Health insurance card / valid health insurance