Asylum reception centres Daily life in a reception centre

Adult asylum seekers have the right to training in the Norwegian language. The goal is for residents to learn enough Norwegian to be able to cope on their own as much as possible. Children and youths who are likely to stay longer than three months at the reception centre have the right and obligation to attend primary and lower secondary education.

Youths between the age of 16 and 18 have the right to attend training in the Norwegian language and in social studies, and they may also have the right to receive instruction in school subjects from primary and lower secondary education.

Residents who have confirmed their identity are allowed to apply for the right to work. With a work permit for asylum seekers, it is possible to engage in work activity. Certain individuals also gain vocational skills in this way.

All reception centre residents take part in an information programme about Norwegian society and its fundamental values.

The Information programme covers

• the asylum process
• life in the reception centre
• the local neighbourhood/community
• health
• conflict prevention
• laws and law-breaking
• settlement in a municipality (external website) (in Norwegian)
• returning to your home country

All reception centres offer a variety of leisure activities, and the residents also organise a number of activities on their own. Many residents also participate in volunteer work at the reception centre.

Asylum reception centres often cooperate with the local sports club and other local teams and groups. Many residents choose to participate in activities for children, such as tutoring. As a result, the children get help with their schooling and the volunteers become part of a social network.