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There are two main types of bank in Norway: savings banks and commercial banks, both of which now offer a similar range of personal banking services. Many offer internet banking facilities, and there are several online banks which have no branches.

Bank opening hours vary but are generally from 8 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. on Mondays to Fridays.

ATMs (called 'Minibank') are widely available in all cities and towns for cash withdrawals and other services. Most of these accept international credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa for cash withdrawals, and some allow withdrawals of cash in other European currencies. There are ATMs located in shops and petrol stations which allow cash withdrawals using the Bank Axept debit card, available from Norwegian banks.

If you are going to be working in Norway you will be required to open a bank account there so that your salary can be paid straight into your account. To open an account, you will need a Norwegian identity number and you may also be asked to show your passport and evidence of employment.

Bank giros and post giros are commonly used in Norway for the purpose of transferring funds electronically between banks and post office accounts. Utilities bills, for example, have a giro attached which should be used when making payment if internet banking facilities are not used for this purpose. Mail Giros (Brevgiros) are also available, which can be used for the payment of bills by post.

Most major credit cards are accepted in Norway in hotels, restaurants and other major establishments, but supermarkets and other retailers often only accept Norwegian-issued cards.

Norwegian krone can be brought into and taken out of the country up to a maximum limit of 25,000kr. There are no restrictions on the export of foreign currency from Norway, but evidence must be shown that it was previously imported or converted from a currency other than krone.

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