Getting BankID is one of those milestones that makes life in Norway much easier. It is the key to online banking, filing taxes, signing rental contracts, applying for childcare, and accessing public services. If you are new to the country, the process can feel opaque at first, especially when different banks give slightly different answers. With the right order of steps and the correct documents, it is very doable.
In short, you need a Norwegian identity number to get full BankID. Many banks will accept a D-number at first, but the broadest access usually comes once you receive a permanent national identity number. The typical route is to secure your ID number, open a bank account, complete an in-person ID check, and activate the BankID app on your phone. Some banks offer remote passport verification, but most newcomers should plan for an in-branch visit.
Let’s take a deeper dive into how BankID works, what to prepare, and the fastest path to activation.
What Is BankID and Why You Need It
BankID is Norway’s highest-trust electronic identification and digital signature. Think of it as your legal signature online. You will use it to log in to your bank, sign loan papers, apply for a credit card, check your health information, and communicate with the tax administration. Without BankID, everyday digital tasks in Norway are slower and more manual. You might find yourself picking up letters at the post office or visiting counters in person that most people never see.
Eligibility: D-number vs. National Identity Number
Norway uses two kinds of identity numbers:
D-number
This is a temporary identity number issued to people who need an ID number but are not yet registered as residents. Many foreign workers and students start with a D-number. Some banks can issue BankID when you only have a D-number, but the access can be limited. For example, certain public services or third-party platforms may insist on a full identity number.
National identity number
If you are registered as living in Norway, you receive a full identity number. This unlocks the smoothest experience. Most banks strongly prefer or require this number for BankID because it ties directly to your official population record.
If you are moving for work, your employer may help you book an appointment at the Service Centre for Foreign Workers. That is often where you request a D-number or complete the steps that lead to your national identity number.
Step-by-Step: The Fastest Route to BankID
- Get your identity number sorted first
If you are eligible for a national identity number, prioritize the registration appointment. If you will only get a D-number initially, that is fine. It is still a valid starting point with several banks. - Choose a bank and open an account
Pick a bank with good English support and clear routines for foreign ID checks. Large nationwide banks and many local savings banks know this process well. You typically submit an online application, then finish in person. - Complete the bank’s ID control
For your first BankID, expect an in-person identity check. Some banks allow passport scanning with NFC in their app, but not all. Plan for a branch visit, bring your original documents, and budget time for appointment availability. - Activate the BankID app
Once the bank approves you, you receive instructions to activate the BankID app on your phone and set your personal password. From that moment, you can sign into most services in Norway.
Opening a Bank Account as a Foreigner
Requirements vary slightly, but these are the documents I see most often requested:
- Passport or national ID card with a chip.
- Proof of Norwegian address, such as a tenancy contract.
- Your D-number or national identity number.
- Norwegian phone number for security codes.
- For workers, an employment contract. For students, proof of enrollment.
A few practical notes. Make sure your name appears exactly the same across all documents. Even small spelling variations can slow things down. If your address is still temporary, ask the bank what they can accept during your move-in period. If you are waiting on a SIM card, some banks can start the process and let you add the number later.
Identity Verification: What to Bring
Banks are strict about first-time ID. The safest checklist is:
- Original biometric passport.
- Residence card if you have one.
- Your D-number or national identity number letter.
- Address documentation.
- Work contract or admission letter, if relevant.
It is worth carrying everything to the appointment. Photocopies are rarely enough. Bringing the originals saves a second trip.
BankID App, Code Device, and Biometrics
Today, the BankID app is the standard. You sign in with your personal password and confirm with biometrics on your phone if you want. Physical code devices still exist for accessibility or special cases, but most people never need them. If you are used to older solutions, note that mobile-based methods have consolidated into the app, which is what almost every service expects.
If you change phones, remember to move your app carefully. Keep your old device until the new setup is complete, or you might lock yourself out temporarily.
Common Roadblocks and How to Solve Them
Only a D-number and the bank says no
Ask if they can issue BankID on a D-number or if they will at least start your account now and add BankID once your national identity number arrives. If your current bank will not, consider calling another bank. Policies differ.
Name mismatch
If your name contains special characters or multiple surnames, make sure they match your passport and the Norwegian registry exactly. Update the registry if needed, then notify your bank.
No Norwegian phone number yet
Some banks can begin the process without it, but most need a local number for security. I recommend getting a prepaid Norwegian SIM early. It makes everything else easier.
You moved to a new address mid-process
Update your address with the population registry and your bank as soon as it changes. Many services rely on that record to confirm your identity.
BankID Without a Norwegian Phone Number
Technically possible in certain corner cases, but it is impractical. You will need SMS codes, app activation, and two-factor prompts. Get a Norwegian number even if it is a prepaid plan. If you travel abroad often, double-check roaming or eSIM options so you can receive prompts outside Norway.
Students, EU/EEA Workers, and Short-Term Stays
Students
If you will be in Norway for an academic year or more, push to get your identity number early and pick a bank that regularly serves international students. Universities often publish bank options that are comfortable with student documentation.
EU/EEA workers
If you are here for work and plan to live in Norway, you should qualify for a national identity number after registering your move. That is the simplest path to BankID. For very short stays, some banks may still grant limited services with a D-number, but expect tighter rules.
Short-term contractors
If you are here for a few months, you may only get a D-number. That can be enough for a basic account and sometimes BankID, depending on the bank. If a full BankID proves difficult, pair your D-number with MinID for public services while you wait.
Timelines: How Long It Takes
The timing depends on appointments and how quickly your identity number is issued. As a rough sequence many newcomers experience:
- Getting a D-number or national identity number: anywhere from a few days to a few weeks after your appointment, depending on season and location.
- Opening a bank account: a few days once you have had your ID check.
- BankID activation: often the same day the bank finishes their controls.
If you are moving in August or January when many people arrive, book appointments early. That single act can save you weeks.
Security and Good Habits
Treat your BankID like a physical signature. Never share your password or approval codes with anyone. Banks and public authorities do not ask for your password on the phone or by email. If something looks off, stop and call your bank on their official number.
A few simple habits go a long way:
- Set a strong BankID password that you do not reuse elsewhere.
- Keep your phone updated, with screen lock and biometrics enabled.
- If your phone is lost, contact your bank immediately to block access.
- Review your contact details in online banking so alerts reach you.
Alternatives While You Wait
If your BankID is not ready yet, you still have options:
MinID
This is a lighter eID you can use to log into many public services. Activation often involves receiving PIN codes by post. It is not as powerful as BankID but covers a lot of essentials.
Activation codes from public agencies
Some services let you request one-time codes by letter. It is slower, but it keeps your paperwork moving while BankID is pending.
In-person service desks
For urgent needs like taxes or residence paperwork, visit the relevant office with your passport and identity number. Staff are used to newcomers navigating the first weeks.
Practical Tips From Everyday Life Here
- If your bank offers a walk-in ID check early in the morning, go then. Queues are shorter.
- When scanning your passport in an app, hold it steady on the NFC chip area for longer than you think. Many scans fail because people move too quickly.
- Save your D-number or identity number letter in a safe place and take a photo for your records. You will quote that number often.
- If you change your phone or number, update your bank first before you lose access to the old device.
- Keep notifications on for your banking app so you do not miss BankID prompts when signing in elsewhere.
FAQ-Style Clarifications
Can I get BankID before I have a Norwegian address?
Not usually. Banks will want a local address on file, even if it is temporary.
Do I need to visit the bank in person?
For the first BankID, you should assume yes. Some banks allow remote passport scanning for existing customers, but in-person is still common for newcomers.
Will a D-number always work for BankID?
No. It depends on the bank and on the service you are trying to access. A full national identity number gives the broadest access.
What if I am self-employed or a freelancer?
Bring documentation that shows you will be living and working in Norway. Many banks are comfortable with freelance clients, but they will still need the same ID checks.
Getting BankID as a foreigner in Norway is a process you can absolutely navigate. Handle the identity number early, choose a bank that understands newcomers, show up with complete documents, and activate the app the same day if you can. Once it is in place, the rest of Norwegian life clicks into gear.