April 14, 2025
Enhetsregisteret is a central register that contains basic information about all entities conducting business in Norway, including companies, organizations, and public institutions. Registration in Enhetsregisteret is mandatory for all businesses and represents the first step in the business registration process. Once registered, each entity receives a unique organization number (organisasjonsnummer), which is essential for further formalities such as opening a bank account, registering employees, or submitting tax declarations for business operations in Norway.
Foretaksregisteret contains more detailed information about businesses, including their legal structure, owners, board members, and share capital. Registration in Foretaksregisteret is mandatory for certain legal forms, such as limited liability companies (AS) and businesses engaged in activities requiring special permits. Registration in this register enhances the transparency and credibility of a company in the Norwegian market.
Foreign companies that wish to conduct business in Norway without establishing a separate Norwegian entity can register a branch as NUF. This process involves several key steps:
Operating as an NUF requires compliance with Norwegian accounting standards. The company must submit relevant tax returns and adhere to local accounting regulations. Depending on the nature of the business, additional permits or licenses may be required.
Registering an NUF allows foreign companies to legally conduct business in Norway without establishing a separate entity. This enables them to access the Norwegian market, enter into contracts, and utilize local banking and financial services.
Registering a business in Norway, especially in the form of an NUF, requires a thorough understanding and fulfillment of the requirements related to Enhetsregisteret and Foretaksregisteret. Compliance with local regulations and maintaining proper accounting records are crucial for success in the Norwegian market. Therefore, it is advisable to seek professional advisory services to ensure full compliance with Norwegian law and avoid potential issues.
In Norway, there is a single institution that maintains various registers. At Brønnøysundregistrene, businesses can register a Norwegian company (aksjeselskap, AS), a branch of a foreign company (Norskregistrert Utenlandsk Foretak, NUF), and also obtain various types of licenses (e.g., a hunting license). The register's website provides useful information, also available in English: brreg.no.
Enhetsregisteret (Entity Register)
Enhetsregisteret is a central register that contains basic information about all entities conducting business in Norway, including companies, organizations, and public institutions. Registration in Enhetsregisteret is mandatory for all businesses and represents the first step in the business registration process. Once registered, each entity receives a unique organization number (organisasjonsnummer), which is essential for further formalities such as opening a bank account, registering employees, or submitting tax declarations for business operations in Norway.
Foretaksregisteret (Business Register)
Foretaksregisteret contains more detailed information about businesses, including their legal structure, owners, board members, and share capital. Registration in Foretaksregisteret is mandatory for certain legal forms, such as limited liability companies (AS) and businesses engaged in activities requiring special permits. Registration in this register enhances the transparency and credibility of a company in the Norwegian market.
NUF Registration (Norskregistrert Utenlandsk Foretak)
Foreign companies that wish to conduct business in Norway without establishing a separate Norwegian entity can register a branch as NUF. This process involves several key steps:
- VAT Register Registration (Merverdiavgiftsregisteret): If the expected annual turnover exceeds 50,000 NOK, the company must register for VAT. Before registering, the company must have an organization number, and a company representative must have access to the Altinn system to sign the application.
- Appointing a Representative: If the company does not have a physical presence in Norway, it must appoint a representative with a Norwegian address, who will be responsible for VAT reporting and other tax obligations.
- Registration in Industry-Specific Registers: In Norway, there are mandatory registers for certain sectors, including electrical services, cleaning services, and personnel leasing companies. Foreign company branches operating in these industries must register accordingly.
Accounting and Compliance
Operating as an NUF requires compliance with Norwegian accounting standards. The company must submit relevant tax returns and adhere to local accounting regulations. Depending on the nature of the business, additional permits or licenses may be required.
Benefits of Registering an NUF
Registering an NUF allows foreign companies to legally conduct business in Norway without establishing a separate entity. This enables them to access the Norwegian market, enter into contracts, and utilize local banking and financial services.
Conclusion
Registering a business in Norway, especially in the form of an NUF, requires a thorough understanding and fulfillment of the requirements related to Enhetsregisteret and Foretaksregisteret. Compliance with local regulations and maintaining proper accounting records are crucial for success in the Norwegian market. Therefore, it is advisable to seek professional advisory services to ensure full compliance with Norwegian law and avoid potential issues.
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