There is growing concern for King Harald V. The 89-year-old monarch is in hospital with a blood infection, and his condition has reportedly worsened, according to a statement from the palace. This has brought a question many in Norway would rather not contemplate to the forefront: What happens if the head of state dies?

There would be no transitional period. Crown Prince Haakon would immediately succeed his father as king. He is already serving as regent while Harald receives medical treatment, but a permanent change at the head of the monarchy would have far-reaching consequences for the entire royal family.

Crown Prince Haakon Would Become King Immediately

If King Harald were to die, Haakon would take an oath to uphold the Constitution before the Norwegian Parliament, the Storting. Norway does not require a formal coronation. A solemn blessing at Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim could take place later, as it did for King Harald and Queen Sonja in 1991.

Mette-Marit would also become Queen of Norway when Haakon ascends the throne.

Ingrid Alexandra Would Move to the Top of the Succession

The next generation would see an immediate change as well. Princess Ingrid Alexandra would become first in line to the throne and take on the role of Crown Princess, while her brother, Prince Sverre Magnus, would move into second place.

Queen Sonja would retain her title, but as the widow of the former king rather than the reigning queen. She could still continue to represent the royal family at important occasions.

Following an official announcement of the king’s death, preparations would also be made for flags to be flown at half-mast, military honors, public ceremonies, and the state funeral.

Haakon and Mette-Marit Would Face a Major Challenge

The timing would be particularly difficult for the family. Mette-Marit is recovering from a lung transplant, while Haakon has already taken on additional responsibilities as regent and is likely to remain closely involved in supporting his wife.

Other family matters are also creating pressure, including the legal case involving Marius Borg Høiby and questions surrounding the future of the Crown Prince and Crown Princess’s children. If Haakon were to become king, he would suddenly have even greater constitutional and public responsibilities.

The Royal Family’s Resources Would Be Limited

The question of who could support the new king would also become more pressing. Ingrid Alexandra is currently studying in Oslo, while Sverre Magnus is planning to study in Lisbon, meaning both would likely have limited availability for official duties.

Queen Sonja could continue to assist the family at public events, although she is also 89. Princess Astrid, meanwhile, is 94, further limiting the number of senior royals available for regular engagements.

For now, however, the focus remains on King Harald’s recovery and the hope that his treatment will be successful.