Norway Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Norway
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Normal Precautions
Updated February 3, 2025
Norway recorded 0.7 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2023, a rate that is among the lowest in the world. That places Norway #169 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Europe average of 1.6 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide has stayed rare over the past decade (0.9 per 100,000 in 2013, 0.7 today). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Norway at Level 1 of 4: Exercise Normal Precautions.
Homicide Rate
0.7 /100k
Safety Rank
#27 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 1 of 4
Data Year
2023
Homicide Rate Trend (1990-2023)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide has stayed rare over the past decade (0.9 per 100,000 in 2013, 0.7 today). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Norway Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Norway, the homicide rate for men is 1.2× higher than the rate for women — 0.8 vs 0.7 per 100,000 (2023).
Homicide victims per 100,000 of each sex. Source: UNODC via World Bank.
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Norway:
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits Exercise normal precautions in Norway. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Norway. If you decide to travel to Norway: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X ( formerly Twitter ) Review the Country Security Report for Norway. Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler's Checklist .
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Norway
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated June 03, 2025).
Terrorism
: Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack U.S. citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets. High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Crime
Norway has a low level of crime and violent crime is uncommon. The most common crimes are home and office burglaries and petty thefts. Pickpockets target tourists in crowded areas like hotels and transit stations. Be vigilant in these high-risk locations to protect your belongings. The Oslo Central train station is an especially popular area for pickpockets and bag snatchers. Violent and weapon-related crimes are rare, but they do occur in areas with drug trafficking and gang problems. This includes parts of eastern Oslo. As in any other urban area, you should remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
Scams
: Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Norway. Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information. Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.
Technology Usage Abroad
Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage abroad. Before traveling abroad, follow best practices. Keep all software, like the operating system and apps, updated. Also, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) apps if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps help U.S. citizens get around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.
Victims of Crime
Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(47) 2130-8540. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can: Help you find appropriate medical care Assist you in reporting a crime to the police Contact relatives or friends with your written consent Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion Provide a list of local attorneys . We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States Assist you in accessing Norway’s program to provide financial compensation to victims who suffer serious criminal injuries, via the Norwegian Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority .
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Victims may also contact: Police (non-emergency) 02 800 Oslo Emergency Room 116 117 Helpline for Children and Youth 116 111 Hotline for Victims of Sexual Assault 800 57 000 DIXI Center for Victims of Rape 22 44 40 50 Oslo Crisis Center 22 48 03 80 National Association for Victims of Crime 22 16 40 00
Tourism
The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are usually identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. At certain times of year, there are increased risks of avalanche and hidden crevasses in mountainous areas throughout Norway. Rapid weather changes may also create hazards in backcountry areas. We encourage you to check with local authorities and websites showing current conditions before engaging in outdoor sporting activities.
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Norway Population & Demographics
Population of 5,572,279, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norway safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Norway at Level 1 of 4 (Exercise Normal Precautions). The homicide rate of 0.7 per 100,000 is among the lowest in the world.
What is the crime rate in Norway?
Norway has an intentional homicide rate of 0.7 per 100,000 people (2023, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #169 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Norway?
Norway is currently at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Norway compare to other countries?
Norway's homicide rate of 0.7 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Europe average of 1.6.