Norway regulates the maximum parental fee for a full-time barnehage place. The “makspris” is set nationally and can change over time. In addition, there are income-based reduction schemes so that low-income households are not priced out of childcare.
Max price (makspris)
Udir publishes the current rules and rates each barnehage year. For example, Udir’s guidance for the 2025/2026 barnehage year describes a maximum total payment and explains how the national regulation works.
Income-based reduction (6% rule)
The national reduction scheme means that if the maximum price is higher than 6% of the household’s total income, you are entitled to a reduced price. This applies in both municipal and private kindergartens, and the municipality is responsible for administration.
Why this matters for immigrants and single parents
- Childcare cost affects your ability to work, study, and stabilize life after a breakup or relocation.
- Many families miss reductions because they do not know they must apply (municipality process).
- If your income dropped recently, ask about “permanent decrease in income” handling.
Practical checklist
- Check the current makspris and reduction rules on Udir.
- Ask your municipality: “How do I apply for reduced fee? What documentation do you need?”
- Keep receipts and decisions in one folder (paper trail).
Sources & further reading
- Udir: Parental fees and reduction schemes (foreldrebetaling)
- Udir: National rates (incl. makspris regimes)
- Statsforvalteren (example): Max price updates
Do Better Norge note: Childcare affordability is a rights issue in practice. If the system is supposed to protect low-income households, it must work for newcomers too—ask for the rule in writing and apply early.
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