Settling in Norway? The Case of Polish Migrants and Their Families

Abstract

People of Polish origin constitute not only the largest group of immigrants
in Norway (99,424 in 2015, Statistics Norway), but also the largest group of
immigrants in many Norwegian municipalities. This article presents different
patterns of settlement choices and spatial experiences of Polish migrants and
their families in Norway. Based on the analysed material, it can be concluded
that we are witnessing a process of settlement of Polish migrants in Norway.
Regardless of their initial plans, currently they see their future in Norway,
not in Poland. Their activities in Norway are not limited to work exclusively,
they start families there or bring family members who used to live in Poland,
they buy flats and houses, send their children to Norwegian kindergartens
and schools.