In this guide, you’ll discover exactly how to apply for Norway’s self-employment permit, what documents you need, how to register your business and manage taxes, and the steps for renewing your stay or bringing your family. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to start working in Norway on your own terms.

The Self-Employment Route Explained

Norway doesn’t offer a standalone “self-employment visa.” Entrepreneurs typically apply via the skilled worker category, which requires demonstrating applicable qualifications and sufficient projected income as outlined on the UDI’s skilled worker permit page (opens in a new tab). In rare cases—such as freelance artists or specialized healthcare professionals—applicants can be assessed on a project basis under the separate “self-employed and partners” scheme, which sets out specific criteria for contracts, project scope, and financial viability as detailed by Norway-Visa.org (opens in a new tab).

When the Self-Employed Route Applies

If you:
1. Have a registered business abroad and a binding contract with a Norwegian client, or
2. Plan to start a sole proprietorship or limited company in Norway—
you qualify to apply under this scheme. UDI looks for:
– A solid business assignment or contract, as outlined in the VisaGuideWorld overview of Norway’s self-employment requirements (opens in a new tab)
– Demonstrated expertise in your field
– Proof of your company’s registration status

Eligibility and Documentation Requirements

Before you click “submit,” assemble the following originals (translated into English or Norwegian):

• Detailed business plan
• Comprehensive budget and financial forecasts
• Contract or letter of intent from your Norwegian client (if you’ll work remotely)
• Proof of secured housing in Norway
• Evidence of personal funds to cover at least six months of living expenses

“Well-prepared documentation greatly increases your chances of a positive decision,” says the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration.

Special Considerations for Digital Nomads

If you’re an independent contractor without a local office, you must:
– Show a minimum annual income of NOK 350,000 (about €35,719) from Norwegian projects, according to a Workpermit.com briefing on Norway’s digital nomad rules (opens in a new tab).
– Hold valid medical insurance covering your entire stay.

Registering Your Venture and Managing Taxes

Depending on your business structure:

1. Foreign-based company with a Norwegian contract
2. No local registration needed; tie your permit to that client agreement.
3. Norwegian sole proprietorship or limited company
4. Register at the Brønnøysund Register Centre via Brønnøysundregistrene (opens in a new tab).
5. Enroll for VAT if annual turnover exceeds NOK 50,000, per the Norwegian Tax Administration’s start-up obligations (opens in a new tab).
6. Keep accounts and file annual reports.

Key tax and reporting tasks include registering for a tax deduction card, submitting quarterly VAT returns (if registered), filing an annual personal tax return, and paying estimated tax installments by September and November.

Applying and Paying the Fee

You submit your application electronically through UDI’s portal; paper submissions are allowed only in exceptional cases. Make sure to:

1. Upload all original documents and certified translations.
2. Pay the application fee of NOK 5,400 (same as skilled workers).
3. Await processing—average time is 1–3 months.
4. If needed, local police can issue you a temporary work permit while UDI processes your case.

Licensing for Regulated Professions

If your field (e.g., healthcare, legal, engineering) is regulated in Norway, obtain recognition of your qualification before applying via the Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education (NOKUT) (opens in a new tab).

Visa Duration, Renewal, and Family Reunification

• Initial validity: Up to 2 years
• Renewals: You can extend twice for two-year periods, up to a total of six years.
• Family reunification: Your spouse or partner and any children can apply to join you if your assignment exceeds six months.

Plugging into Norway’s Support Network

You don’t have to go it alone. Tap into these resources:

• Startup Norway’s community and events – insights and networking at Startup Norway (opens in a new tab)
• Nytt i Norge’s guides for foreign entrepreneurs – step-by-step assistance at Nytt i Norge (opens in a new tab)
• Innovation Norway’s funding and advisory programs – support and grants via Innovation Norway (opens in a new tab)
• Local business incubators and co-working spaces in Oslo, Bergen or Trondheim

Your Norwegian Venture Beckons

You now have a step-by-step path to follow: understand which permit fits your profile, gather the right documentation, register and manage your business affairs, and satisfy all tax and licensing requirements. With careful planning and solid support from Norway’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, your dream of self-employment in Norway is within reach. Good luck!