Am I allowed to start a limited company in Norway?
Yes — but a limited company (AS) requires at least 30,000 kr in share capital. Under the Companies Act §3-1 the minimum share capital is 30,000 kr, which must be paid in, but the capital can be used to cover formation costs. The AS must be registered in the Register of Business Enterprises in Brønnøysund before it can operate, and registration gives the company legal personality and limited liability. At least one board member is required. To avoid the capital requirement, you can instead start a sole proprietorship (ENK), but then you are personally liable for the debt. Small companies can be exempt from the audit requirement below certain thresholds.
📋 The rules
- An AS requires at least 30,000 kr in share capital
- The capital can cover formation costs
- Must be registered in Brønnøysund's business register
- Requires at least one board member
- A sole proprietorship needs no capital, but gives personal liability
🔓 Exceptions
- A sole proprietorship has no capital requirement, but the owner is personally liable
- Small companies can be exempt from the audit requirement below set thresholds
- A bank or auditor must confirm the share capital is paid in
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Without registration and meeting the requirements, it is not a valid AS, and you lose the limited-liability protection. False confirmation of share capital is an offence.
📎 Official sources
❓ Frequently asked
Can I start a limited company?
Yes, but an AS requires at least 30,000 kr in share capital and must be registered in the business register in Brønnøysund.
How much share capital is needed?
At least 30,000 kr, which must be paid in. The capital can be used to cover formation costs.
Is there an alternative with no capital requirement?
Yes, a sole proprietorship (ENK) needs no capital, but then you are personally liable for the debt.
Must the company be registered?
Yes. It must be registered in the business register in Brønnøysund before operating, and that gives limited liability.
Does a small company need an auditor?
Small companies can be exempt from the audit requirement below set thresholds for revenue and assets.
🔎 Common searches
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