Find Doctors by Language in Norway
Healthcare in your native language. Search practitioners across Norway speaking 27+ languages including English, Polish, Arabic, German, Spanish, Somali, and French.
Your Right to a Free Medical Interpreter (Tolketjeneste)
Under Norwegian law (Forvaltningsloven § 11 and Pasient- og brukerrettighetsloven § 3-2), you have an unconditional legal right to understand and be understood when receiving healthcare. If you do not master Norwegian well enough to discuss medical matters safely, the public healthcare service must provide a qualified interpreter at no cost to you.
You never pay a co-payment (egenandel) for an interpreter. Costs are covered directly by Helfo or your regional health trust.
Interpreters are drawn from the National Register of Interpreters and are bound by strict professional confidentiality (taushetsplikt).
It is illegal in Norway to use children under 18 as medical interpreters, ensuring accurate diagnosis and protecting minors.
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Select your preferred language to find verified general practitioners and specialists.
Multilingual Healthcare & Interpreter FAQ
Are medical interpreters free in Norway?
Yes. Under Norwegian law (Forvaltningsloven § 11 and Pasient- og brukerrettighetsloven § 3-2), qualified medical interpreters are 100% free for patients in the public healthcare system (including Fastlege offices, hospitals, and municipal Legevakt). The public health authority covers all costs.
How do I request an interpreter for my doctor appointment?
Notify your Fastlege clinic or hospital department when booking your appointment that you require an interpreter in your preferred language. The clinic is legally responsible for booking a qualified professional interpreter from the National Register of Interpreters (Nasjonalt tolkeregister).
Can my spouse or adult child interpret for me instead?
Norwegian healthcare authorities strongly discourage using family members or friends, and the law strictly bans using minors under 18 as interpreters. Professional medical interpreters are bound by statutory confidentiality (taushetsplikt), ensure medical accuracy, and protect your privacy.
What if I need an interpreter during an emergency (113 or 116 117)?
If you call 113 (Ambulance) or 116 117 (Legevakt) and need language assistance, tell the operator immediately in English or your language ("Interpreter Polish", "Interpreter Arabic", etc.). Emergency dispatchers can connect an on-demand telephone interpreter within 1 to 3 minutes.
Do doctors in Norway speak English?
Yes. The vast majority of Norwegian doctors and healthcare personnel speak fluent English. If you are comfortable communicating in English, you will readily receive consultations in English across all major cities and clinics.
Language not listed?
Search our directory directly with custom language filters, or ask your GP's office to order a telephone interpreter.