April 28, 2025
Entrepreneurs consulting with our office typically consider the following legal structures:
The required documents vary depending on the chosen business form but generally include:
Company registration does not always occur online via the Altinn portal. Foreign companies registering a branch in Norway typically submit documents by traditional mail. A practical tip: it's advisable to send documents from abroad to our office via courier.
Additional registrations may be necessary after obtaining a tax identification number for your enterprise, such as:
Accounting firms and other entities providing financial services are required to implement AML (Anti-Money Laundering) procedures, including:
Norway mandates that companies report their beneficial owners to a specific register to enhance financial transparency and combat tax fraud.
Entrepreneurs often encounter issues such as:
Collaborating with an experienced accounting firm can streamline the entire process by:
Registering a company in Norway requires diligence and knowledge of regulations. Entrepreneurs should:
By following these steps, the registration process can proceed smoothly and without complications.
Registering a company in Norway requires a thorough understanding of local regulations and the fulfillment of specific administrative obligations. The Norwegian Register of Business Enterprises (Brønnøysundregistrene) records entities in accordance with Norwegian legislation, such as the Business Enterprises Registration Act (Foretaksregisterloven). However, practical requirements may sometimes extend beyond statutory provisions. In such cases, leveraging expert experience can significantly enhance the likelihood of successful registration.
Authorized accounting firms often necessitate additional documentation to ensure legal operations in Norway. This includes documents related to anti-money laundering (hvitvasking) and the register of beneficial owners (Reelle Eiere).
Step One: Choosing the Legal Form of Business in Norway
Entrepreneurs consulting with our office typically consider the following legal structures:
- Aksjeselskap (AS): A limited liability company requiring a minimum share capital of NOK 30,000, offering limited liability for owners, and involving more complex accounting obligations.
- NUF (Norwegian Registered Foreign Company): A branch of a foreign company, often chosen by international enterprises.
For more information on registering and operating a Norwegian company, you can access our free webinar here.
Necessary Documentation for Registration
The required documents vary depending on the chosen business form but generally include:
- Details of owners and board members
- Company bylaws (for AS)
- Information about share capital
- Powers of attorney (if applicable)
Registration Process with Brønnøysundregistrene
Company registration does not always occur online via the Altinn portal. Foreign companies registering a branch in Norway typically submit documents by traditional mail. A practical tip: it's advisable to send documents from abroad to our office via courier.
- Registration with the Central Coordinating Register for Legal Entities (Enhetsregisteret): Mandatory for all companies.
- Registration with the Register of Business Enterprises (Foretaksregisteret): Required for companies conducting business activities in Norway.
Additional registrations may be necessary after obtaining a tax identification number for your enterprise, such as:
- VAT registration (if anticipated revenues exceed NOK 50,000 annually)
- Registration with the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet) for staffing agencies
- Registration for cleaning companies with the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority
- Registration for electrical companies
Anti-Money Laundering Obligations (Hvitvaskingsloven)
Accounting firms and other entities providing financial services are required to implement AML (Anti-Money Laundering) procedures, including:
- Identifying and verifying clients
- Monitoring transactions and reporting suspicious activities to the Norwegian National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime (Økokrim)
- Maintaining documentation in compliance with regulations
Failure to meet these requirements can result in financial penalties and criminal liability.
Register of Beneficial Owners (Reelle Eiere Register)
Norway mandates that companies report their beneficial owners to a specific register to enhance financial transparency and combat tax fraud.
- The registration obligation applies to most companies, except sole proprietorships (EPF) without employees.
- Data submitted to the register includes the identity of owners and their percentage ownership in the company.
- Failure to register may lead to financial penalties.
Challenges and Common Mistakes in the Registration Process
Entrepreneurs often encounter issues such as:
- Incomplete documentation when registering an AS
- Delays in obtaining a Norwegian identification number
- Incorrect VAT registration
- Neglecting the obligation to report beneficial owners
The Role of an Accounting Firm in Company Registration
Collaborating with an experienced accounting firm can streamline the entire process by:
- Providing advice on selecting the appropriate legal form and preparing documentation
- Handling registrations with relevant authorities
- Ensuring compliance with AML regulations and the register of beneficial owners
Summary and Recommendations
Registering a company in Norway requires diligence and knowledge of regulations. Entrepreneurs should:
- Choose the appropriate business form
- Prepare the necessary documentation
- Comply with AML regulations and the register of beneficial owners
- Consider utilizing the services of a professional accounting firm
By following these steps, the registration process can proceed smoothly and without complications.
Questions about doing business & accounting services in Norway?
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