In cases where there is a language barrier, an interpreter is a necessary aid if civil servants and experts are to succeed in informing, guiding and hearing the parties to a case.

International conventions to which Norway has acceded stipulate that people have a fundamental right to be heard and to receive information and guidance. IMDi is working to ensure the establishment of a permanent course of education for interpreters and it follows up offers of web-based education for interpreters at three educational institutions. 

The National Register of Interpreters, which was established in 2005, is administered by IMDi. The register provides an overview of practising interpreters’ qualifications and is intended to ensure that the market has access to qualified interpreters. The National Register is available to the public at www.tolkeportalen.no