How to Register a Business Enterprise in Norway

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Before you can begin running a business in Norway, you have to get listed with the Central Coordinating Register for Legal Entities and the Register for Business Enterprises, where you will get an organization number. A legal organization number will enable you to open a bank account under your business enterprise name and also register in the value-added tax register. Additionally, without the organization number, you will not be allowed to employ staff.

Instructions

1. Pick a name for your business enterprise. The name must have at least three Norwegian letters and numbers as well as orthographic signs. Contact the Register for Business Enterprises for a list of acceptable letters and signs.

2. 

   Register your business

   Register with the Central Coordinating Register for Legal Entities. Obtain the combined register return form from the Norwegian Labor and Welfare Organization, the Bronnoysund Register Center, or the tax office. The form can also be downloaded from the Bronnoysund Register Center (see Reference section).

3. Fill in all details required in the combined register return form. Sign the form and return it to either the Norwegian Labor and Welfare Organization, the Bronnoysund Register Center, or the tax office. While filling in this form, you will find out whether it is necessary for you to pay VAT (value-added tax) on the goods and services that you sell.

4. 

   Get a business registration form

   Register with the Register of Business Enterprises. Get a business registration form and fill in all required details. Payment for partnerships and sole proprietorships is about 2400 NOK, and limited liability companies pay 5400 NOK. If your company's turnover goes beyond 50,000 NOK within a one-year period, you must fill in the VAT registration form at the back of the business registration form.

5. Attach necessary documents. Obtain a memorandum of association and company article of association as well as certificate of registration from your country of residence and minutes showing election of a board or general manager for your business entity. Attach these documents together with your business registration form and submit to the Register of Business Enterprises.

6. 

   Get a D number

   Fill in a request for assignment of a D number from the Bronnoysund Register Center. A D number, also referred to as an organization number, is an 11-figure personal identity number used to identify the general manager as well as any other person who is authorized to sign for the business enterprise. Attach your passport while submitting this form.

References

• Bronnoysund: The Register of Business Enterprise
• Bedin: Register your business
• Koninkrijk: Starting a Business in Norway