Barnehage Fees: Max Price (Makspris), Reductions, and Free Schemes

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

1. Check the current makspris and reduction rules on Udir.
2. Ask your municipality: “How do I apply for reduced fee? What documentation do you need?”
3. 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.