Starting a business in Norway — what you need to know
Norway is repeatedly ranked as one of the best countries in the world to live in, while also scoring high on the World Bank’s “Ease of Doing Business” ranking.
Here we will take you through the steps of setting up any kind of business venture in Norway. The process is fairly simple, yet we recommend that you acquire the help of lawyers and/or accountants with experience from establishing businesses in Norway to avoid unnecessary delays. And remember: you can always get in touch with us – send us a general query or contact our staff here.
The steps at a glance:
- Registering the company and acquiring an ID number: All companies in Norway need to be registered in the Brønnøysund Register. This whole process can be done online — you can read our complete guide here.
- Getting to know the Norwegian tax system and legal responsibilities: What taxes do I have to pay on my business? What are my responsibilities towards my employees? Read the ins and outs of rules and regulations of here.
- Understanding the business culture: Equality, trust, and a flat hierarchy are the cornerstones of Norwegian business culture. Learn how to use them to your advantage here.
A complete guide to establishing a business in Norway is also available for download at Invest in Bergen’s website.
If you need help about the ins and outs of moving to Norway, we recommend Internations’ Comprehensive Guide to Relocating to Norway.
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Your guide to starting a business in Norway – step by step
Get to know the business culture
The Norwegian business culture is based on Norwegian (Scandinavian) work values. One of the main values is the focus on equality. As a result, you will see little hierarchy, flat structures and an informal communication.
Learn more : Get to know the business culture
Register a company
Setting up a business in Norway is easily done through The Brønnøysund Register Centre. Invest in Norway does not carry out registration processes for foreign companies. You will be guided through the link below. We can also help you find consultants or lawyers that provide such services.
Learn more : Register a company
Get a Norwegian D-number
Foreign nationals who is seeking to start and operate a business in Norway, needs a Norwegian D-number (a personal ID number) and a Norwegian business address. This D-number will give you access to public services while living in Norway. You can apply for a D-number at the same time as registering the company.
Register at Brønnøysund : Get a Norwegian D-number
Understand the tax system
The Norwegian corporate tax system is transparent and quite easy to understand. The corporate tax is a flat rate of 22% that applies to the sum of profits and capital gains. In addition, there are VAT rates and the employer’s contribution to the National Insurance Scheme at 14.1 % (there can be a slight variations depending on localization).
Learn more : Understand the tax system
Move to Norway
Requirements for going to Norway might mean obtaining a visa and work permit. If you do need a visa, you will most likely be applying for the skilled workers visa. Along with this, you will need to prepare your accommodation, schooling for your kids, etc.
Learn more at Internations.org : Move to Norway
Living in Norway
Norway has repeatedly been ranked as ‘the best country to live in’ by the United Nations Human Development Report. This annual ranking is based largely on average levels of education and income, combined with life expectancy, but also factors such as human rights and cultural freedom.
Explore Norway : Living in NorwayWe are your first point of contact.
We provide information, assess your opportunities, connect you to relevant networks and facilitate investment processes.
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