Head of practice
Head of Corporate Law and Fintech Practice. Expert in the creation and reorganization of companies, support of M&A transactions, as well as legal support for opening and running a business in the EU, Asia, and North America.
Company registration in Norway
Norway is among the most stable economies in Europe. The country is not a member of the European Union but is part of the European Economic Area (EEA), allowing companies to operate within the EU market. For businesses, this means a predictable legal system, transparent regulation, and a high level of trust from banks and counterparties.
At the same time, Norway is not a low-tax jurisdiction. The tax burden here is higher than in most Central and Eastern European countries, and the requirements for accounting, reporting, and corporate governance are quite strict. Therefore, establishing a company in Norway is usually considered by entrepreneurs planning to operate directly in the Norwegian or Scandinavian market.
Lawyers specializing in international corporate law at the law firm “Prikhodko & Partners” regularly advise and support clients on the establishment and management of companies in the countries of the European Economic Area. We will gladly do the same for you.
Main Taxes Paid in Norway
Norway’s tax system is considered stable, but not low.
Main taxes for companies:
Corporate Income Tax
As of 2026, the standard rate is 22%.
This is the basic rate for all companies regardless of industry.
VAT (Value Added Tax)
The standard rate is 25%, one of the highest in Europe.
Reduced rates also apply:
- 15% — for food products
- 12% — for transport, hotels, and cultural services.
VAT registration becomes mandatory once turnover reaches approximately 50 000 NOK (about €4,500).
Dividend Tax
For individual shareholders, the effective taxation of dividends may exceed 37% due to a special adjustment mechanism.
Social Contributions
Employers pay approximately 14.1% of an employee’s salary.
Norway’s advantage is full tax transparency and predictability.
The drawback is that the overall tax burden for an active business may exceed 40%.
Stages of Company Registration
Company registration in Norway is carried out through the government system Brønnøysund Register Centre.
The procedure usually takes 1–3 weeks.
Main stages:
- Choosing a company name
The name is checked in the state register.
For example:
Nordic IT Solutions AS.
- Preparation of incorporation documents
Includes:
- company articles of association
- founders’ resolution
- information about directors.
- Formation of share capital
A standard company requires a contribution of 30 000 NOK (approximately €2,700).
- Registration in the state register
After submitting the documents, the company receives:
- an organization number
- registration within the tax system.
- Opening a bank account
This is often the longest stage due to strict compliance procedures.
Main Business Structures in Norway
AS (Aksjeselskap)
The most common form. Equivalent to an LLC.
- minimum capital — 30,000 NOK
- limited liability of owners.
For example:
an IT company or consulting firm.
ASA (Allmennaksjeselskap)
Equivalent to a public joint-stock company.
- minimum capital — 1 000 000 NOK.
Used for large companies or businesses planning an IPO.
ENK (Enkeltpersonforetak)
Equivalent to a sole proprietorship.
The owner is fully liable with all personal assets.
For example:
freelancers, consultants, or small service businesses.
Legal Support for Starting a Business in Norway
We offer:
- Legal consultation
We analyze:
- the feasibility of registering a company in Norway
- tax implications
- ownership structure.
- Document preparation
We prepare:
- articles of association
- corporate resolutions
- registration forms.
- Accounting support
Norwegian law requires mandatory accounting.
- Banking assistance
We support clients during account opening and communication with banks and payment systems.
Foreigners may own a Norwegian company 100%.
However, there are certain nuances.
- A director or board member often must be an EEA resident.
- Banks conduct very thorough client checks
Especially when founders are non-residents.
- Physical office
In some cases, banks may require proof of actual business presence.
Despite the stability of the jurisdiction, doing business in Norway comes with several challenges.
- High taxes
The tax burden is significantly higher than in many European countries.
- Banking compliance
Opening an account may take 1–2 months.
- High accounting and labor costs
Norway is among the most expensive countries in Europe for doing business.
- Complex tax reporting
Regular financial and tax reports must be submitted.
Norway is a jurisdiction with a high level of legal stability and business transparency. It is suitable for companies working with the Scandinavian market or planning long-term operations in the region.
We will help you assess the feasibility of opening a company in Norway, prepare registration documents, and support your business during the launch phase and further operations.
Calculate the cost of services
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during the day
Compensation for moral, material damage
Protection of honour, dignity, and business reputationContract Development for Business and Legal Entities
Licensing of business activities
Compensation for moral, material damage
Legal services in the field of cryptocurrency and blockchain
REGISTRATION OF COMPANIES AND OPENING OF BANK ACCOUNTS
Sale and purchase of ready-made firms
Grants and attracting investment
Business registration and support in Great Britain
Business registration and support in Switzerland
Business registration and support in the EU
Business Registration and Support in the Gulf Countries (GCC)
Business registration and support in Turkey
Business registration and support in USA
Lawyer for administrative cases
Legal services for medical businesses and doctors
Protection of honour, dignity, and business reputation
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Escort of the tender participant
Trial lawyer: support and defense in court
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