How much cash should I keep at home for emergencies in Norway?
What the authorities advise on cash, cards and your right to pay in cash.
Short answer
Norwegian authorities give no fixed amount, but Norges Bank and DSB advise keeping some cash at home, in different and smaller denominations, in case payment systems fail. How much depends on the size of your household and the supplies you already have. The aim is to manage on your own for a week.
Why
- DSB's self-preparedness checklist lists a little cash and several payment cards.
- Norges Bank recommends that everyone has several payment options, including at least one physical BankAxept card.
- Since 1 October 2024, shops that sell to consumers must as a rule let you pay in cash, for amounts up to NOK 20,000.
Details
Norges Bank also advises having accounts in more than one bank, with some money in each. Cash is one of several measures in case something happens to the payment systems. From 1 May 2025, businesses that refuse cash payments risk a fine.
Tip
Choose smaller notes, such as 50 and 100 kroner: a shop only has to give change if it has change available.
What may differ
The right to pay in cash does not cover payments above NOK 20,000, vending machines or unattended premises.
People also ask
- How much cash should I keep for emergencies?
- How much cash is it legal to keep at home?
Sources
- DSB: Self-preparednessChecked at:
- DSB: Self-preparedness for paymentsChecked at:
- DSB: FAQ on self-preparednessChecked at:
- DSB: How you contribute to Norway's preparednessChecked at:
- Norges Bank: The right to pay in cashChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Advice can change, so check DSB and Norges Bank for the latest recommendations.
Related questions
-
How do I find the IBAN for my Norwegian bank account?
You find the IBAN for your Norwegian account in your bank's online bank or app under the account details, and also on your account statement.
-
Why did my hotel or car rental company block money on my card in Norway?
Hotels and car rental companies reserve money on your card as security, and the reservation is released once the final amount is settled.
-
How do I pay a Norwegian invoice with a KID number from abroad?
To pay a Norwegian invoice from abroad, make an international transfer to the payee's IBAN and BIC and enter the KID number as the payment reference.
-
Do Norwegian banks charge an annual fee for debit cards?
Yes, banks such as DNB charge an annual fee for an adult debit card, currently NOK 295 a year, while cards for children and young people are free.