Starting a business in Norway: A guide for US citizens

If you're a U.S. citizen looking to start a business in Norway, you'll need to understand how the local business landscape operates. Norway is well known for its high standard of living, strong infrastructure, and supportive government policies, so it’s an appealing destination for U.S. citizens looking to expand business operations.

Fortunately, the Norwegian government provides excellent digital services and a wealth of resources to support new business owners, including foreign entrepreneurs from the United States. However, language considerations and the cost of doing business in Norway can present unique challenges for Americans unfamiliar with the region.

So take this as your guide to helping U.S. citizens turn a business idea into a successful opportunity in one of Europe’s most prosperous and forward-thinking countries.²

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How to start a business in Norway as a foreigner

The good news is that Norway is a fantastic place for US entrepreneurs. The process is surprisingly straightforward to understand. So, how to start a business in Norway as a foreigner? There are a few things you need to consider.³

Essential Paperwork for US entrepreneurs in Norway

If you're a U.S. citizen, you’ll need a D-number (a temporary Norwegian ID) to register your business in Norway with the Brønnøysund Register Centre. U.S. citizens, like other non-EU nationals, may also need a residence permit for business purposes in Norway. The great thing about Norway's business culture is that it's very digital-friendly, meaning you can do most things online. Not to mention, taxes and rules are transparent and easy to understand when getting set up.⁴

Opening a Business Bank Account in Norway

Once your business in Norway is registered, opening a Norwegian business bank account is an essential step. Most banks require that your company has an organization number and that you, as the owner, have a valid D-number or Norwegian national ID.

While some banks offer online applications, many still require an in-person appointment, especially for foreign owners. To obtain a Norwegian bank account, you will need to present your business registration documents, ID, business plan, and possibly a tax certificate.

Banks may also ask about your expected turnover and customer base. Some foreign entrepreneurs find the banking process slow or strict due to Norway’s financial regulations, so starting early is wise. But it is absolutely essential to open a Norwegian business account if you plan to do business in Norway. A business account is necessary for handling invoices, payroll, and tax payments efficiently and in full compliance with Norwegian law.⁵

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Types of legal entities in Norway

When you're planning to start a business in Norway, choosing the right legal structure is one of the first big decisions. Here are your options:

• Sole Proprietorship (Enkeltpersonforetak)
  A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure in Norway and is ideal for freelancers or one-person operations. You don’t need startup capital, and registration is quick and low-cost. However, the owner is personally liable for all debts and obligations, meaning your assets are at risk. It’s a good option for low-risk businesses or those just starting out. Taxes are filed as part of your income, and you’ll need to register for VAT if your revenue exceeds NOK 50,000 annually.¹
• Private Limited Company (Aksjeselskap – AS)
  The private limited company (AS) is the most common business form in Norway for companies looking to grow or hire staff. It offers limited liability, meaning your assets are protected if the business in Norway fails. You’ll need at least NOK 30,000 in share capital to start. This structure is more complex, requiring formal registration, regular accounting, and annual reports. It’s suitable for foreign entrepreneurs looking for credibility, investment, or the ability to scale.²
• General Partnership (Ansvarlig selskap – ANS/DA)
  A general partnership is a Norway business owned by two or more people. In an ANS, all partners share unlimited personal liability, while in a DA, liability is limited to each partner’s share. No startup capital is required, making it easy to form. It’s suitable for businesses where trust between partners is strong. However, personal responsibility for debt makes it riskier than an AS. Partnerships must be registered with the Brønnøysund Register Centre and meet accounting requirements depending on size.³

Self-employed US citizens in Norway

If you’re self-employed or thinking about becoming self-employed in Norway, there are a few things you’ll need to sort out first.

We’ve mentioned this before, but like other Norway business entities, you’ll need a D-number (if you’re not a resident) and then register as a sole proprietorship with the Brønnøysund Register Centre. It is also so important to make sure you have the right permits, especially if you're from outside the EU/EEA. Taxes, invoicing, and accounting are important to get right, so it’s worth talking to an advisor early.¹

Checklist For Self-Employment

• D-number (Temporary Identification Number)
• Valid Passport or National ID
• Residence Permit (if applicable)
• Business Plan
• Proof of Address in Norway
• Company Registration Form (Coordinated Register Notification)
• NACE Code (Business Activity Classification)
• Bank Account Documentation
• VAT Registration (if income exceeds NOK 50,000 annually)

Online Business in Norway

Starting an online business in Norway is easier than it would be in other countries, especially given the country’s excellent digital infrastructure and high internet penetration. The best part of starting an online business in Norway is that you can register your business and manage most of the paperwork entirely online through government portals. It’s considered to be a digital-friendly system that makes it easy to handle invoicing, contracts, and even tax submissions without hassle.¹

On top of that, Norwegians tend to trust online services and e-commerce, so there’s a solid market for digital businesses, but it’s crucial to have a very good understanding of your niche if you want to sell.

Documents needed to start your online business

• D-number (for Foreigners)
• Valid Passport or National ID
• Residence Permit (Non-EU/EEA Citizens)
• Business Registration (via Brønnøysund Register Centre)
• NACE Code (Business Activity Classification)
• Norwegian Business Address
• Website Domain Registration & Hosting
• Privacy Policy & GDPR Compliance Documents
• Online Terms & Conditions
• VAT Registration (if annual revenue exceeds NOK 50,000)
• Payment Gateway Setup (With Local Bank or Provider)
• Bookkeeping System & Accountant (Optional but Recommended)
• Business Insurance (If Applicable)

Business Visas In Norway

For U.S. citizens living outside the EU/EEA, you’ll likely need a business visa, officially known as a residence permit for self-employment. So, how do you start a business in Norway as a U.S. citizen? Step one is securing the right visa.

This visa allows you to stay in Norway legally while setting up and running your business. To qualify, you’ll need a solid business plan, proof that the business in Norway will generate income, and relevant experience or qualifications.³ However, it’s always a good idea to consult an immigration lawyer for personalized guidance and up-to-date requirements.

Once your visa is approved and issued, you can register your company and get started.

Business Tax In Norway For U.S. Citizens

Now you may be wondering, how do taxes work in Norway, especially for U.S. Citizens? Well, Norway has its own corporate tax system, and if you’re operating a business there, whether through a branch, a subsidiary, or as a freelancer, you’ll likely be subject to Norwegian corporate or income taxes.

The current corporate tax rate is 22%, and you may also need to pay VAT on goods and services. One big thing to keep in mind: the U.S. taxes its citizens on worldwide income, so you might have to file in both countries, depending on your circumstances.

However, it’s important to note that Norway and the U.S. have a tax treaty, which helps prevent double taxation. You can usually get credits or exclusions to avoid paying the same tax twice.⁶

Final Thoughts

Starting a business in Norway is quite exciting, and it’s a journey filled with many opportunities, especially if you’re ready to embrace its straightforward processes and digital-friendly systems. Norway’s focus on innovation and sustainability means your business ideas can thrive here, whether offline or as an online business in Norway. So, if you’re thinking about launching your dream business, the “Northern Way” might just be the perfect place to turn that dream into reality.⁴

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What industries have the most growth potential for new businesses in Norway?

Norway’s economy is diverse, but certain industries stand out for new business growth. Technology and software development, especially green tech and clean energy, are booming thanks to Norway’s sustainability focus.¹ The maritime sector, including shipping and offshore services, remains strong.

Can I open a business in Norway without knowing Norwegian?

Yes, it’s possible to start a business in Norway without fluent Norwegian, especially in larger cities and within international or tech sectors where English is widely used. Most official government websites, including the Brønnøysund Register Centre, offer English versions for business registration and related processes². Many legal, accounting, and consulting services also operate in English, helping you navigate local requirements. However, learning basic Norwegian is highly recommended as it improves communication with customers, suppliers, and authorities.

Can I hire employees immediately after registering my business?

Yes, once your business is officially registered with the Brønnøysund Register Centre and you’ve fulfilled any relevant legal requirements, you can hire employees in Norway. However, you’ll need to register as an employer with the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV) and set up payroll systems to comply with tax and social security obligations³. If you’re a foreign entrepreneur, ensure you have the right permits, especially if you plan to hire non-EU/EEA workers. Norway has strong labor laws protecting employees’ rights, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with contracts, working hours, and workplace safety regulations.

How long does it typically take to register a business in Norway?

Registering a business in Norway is quite fast compared to many countries, thanks to its efficient digital systems⁴. If all your paperwork is in order, it usually takes between a few days to two weeks to complete registration with the Brønnøysund Register Centre. Sole proprietorships can be registered more quickly, sometimes within a day, while private limited companies (AS) might take a bit longer due to additional documentation.

Sources:

1. Guide to starting a company in Norway | NordiqHQ
2. Business | U.S. Embassy in Norway
3. Immigrate to Norway from USA | LawyersNorway.eu
4. Running a business in Norway | Nordic Co-operation
5. Norway - Tax treaty documents | IRS
6. United States-Norway Tax Treaty | Freeman Law