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2 minute read
Southwest Norway will once again be present at Emigration Expo, Europe’s largest fair for people exploring opportunities to relocate abroad. The fair welcomes up to 15,000 visitors every year. This year the event takes place on 21–22 March at the Jaarbeurs in Utrecht, the Netherlands.
With an 80-square metre stand branded Southwest Norway, the region will be among the largest Norwegian presences at the fair. The stand will be staffed by representatives from Rogaland and Agder County Councils, Chambers of Commerce in Stavanger and Kristiansand, municipalities, regional development companies and NAV EURES. They will welcome visitors and answers questions about living and working in Southwest Norway.
On behalf of employers across the region, the delegation will present a broad range of available positions across different industries. A curated list of vacancies will be brought to the fair, allowing candidates can explore concrete job opportunities and connect directly with those representing the companies behind them.
“Companies in our region need competence and many qualified people in the Netherlands are interested in moving to Norway,” says Randi Mannsåker from the Stavanger Chamber of Commerce. “That is why we are investing in a strong, coordinated presence at the Emigration Expo. This is a strategic effort to position Southwest Norway as a preferred destination for international talent. By standing together, the counties of Agder and Rogaland strengthen their shared attractiveness and can offer broader career opportunities.”
Southwest Norway participation in 2025. Photo: Håkon Repstad
Strong interest in Norway from the Netherlands
Eli Syvertsen, NAV EURES contact in Agder, has participated in international recruitment fairs for many years and confirms that interest in Norway is high.
“Scandinavia is often at the top of the list for people considering relocation from the Netherlands. That is why it is important to be present at Emigration Expo and connect with qualified candidates from a wide range of backgrounds. Especially when it comes to permanent positions, the Netherlands is an ideal country for recruitment. Many Dutch candidates are looking to relocate permanently. Culturally, they share many similarities with Norwegians. They learn Norwegian quickly and integrate easily into Norwegian society.
Because many of them are seeking a better work–life balance, accessible housing and more space, Norway is particularly attractive,” Eli adds.
Experience from previous fairs shows that a significant number of visitors later relocate to Norway, and some go on to establish a business. You can read some of their personal stories at the bottom of this page.
The Groenbos family relocated from the Netherlands to Sauda after the Emigration Expo in 2024. Photo: Martine van Toledo - Flair Fotografie
Why people choose Southwest Norway
Feedback from people who have relocated to Rogaland and Agder includes:
• close proximity to mainland Europe
• regular flights from Stavanger and Kristiansand to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
• a good work–life balance
• easy access to nature
• family-friendly communities
• good welfare services, including childcare facilities
• access to international schools in the larger cities
• a varied and accessible housing market
• a stable and safe society
Emigration Expo
More information about the fair: Home - Emigratiebeurs
For employers from Southwest Norway
If you're an employer in Rogaland or Agder looking to showcase job opportunities, plase contact us at hello@southwestnorway.com
