How to Register a Business in Norway as a Coach, Consultant, or Course Creator
- Vena Verga-Danemar
- Dec 8, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 24
Starting a business in Norway is an exciting journey, but understanding the legal requirements is essential for setting up your coaching, consulting, or course creation business. This guide breaks down the steps to register a sole proprietorship (enkeltpersonforetak) or a Limited Liability Company (Aksjeselskap, AS) in a way that’s simple and actionable for service-based entrepreneurs.
Do You Need to Register a Business in Norway as a Coach, Consultant, or Course Creator?
Understanding how to register a business in Norway as a coach, consultant, or course creator begins with identifying your business structure. If you’re setting up a sole proprietorship, registration with the Central Coordinating Register for Legal Entities (Enhetsregisteret) is mandatory. However, you only need to register with the Register of Business Enterprises (Foretaksregisteret) if your business:
Operates as a state-authorized accountant or auditor.
Conducts activities that require external authorization.
If these don’t apply to you, registration with the Foretaksregisteret is optional. While optional registration offers benefits like a certificate of registration, it’s unnecessary for most sole proprietors.
How to Register a Sole Proprietorship in Norway as a Coach, Consultant, or Course Creator (Enkeltpersonforetak)
Step 1: Register with the Central Coordinating Register for Legal Entities
Go to the Brønnøysund Register Centre and fill out the details about your business activities.
Step 2: Obtain Your Organization Number
Once registered, you’ll receive an organization number, which serves as your business’s official ID for taxes, invoices, and other legal purposes.
Step 3: Register for VAT (if applicable)
If your annual turnover exceeds NOK 50,000, you must register for Value Added Tax (VAT) with Skatteetaten.
How to Register a Limited Liability Company in Norway as a Coach, Consultant, or Course Creator (Aksjeselskap, AS)
If you prefer a more formal structure with limited personal liability, a Limited Liability Company (Aksjeselskap, AS) is the way to go. Here’s how to set it up:
Step 1: Draft Articles of Association
Create a document that outlines your company’s purpose, management structure, and share distribution.
Step 2: Set Up Shareholders and Share Capital
Establish your shareholders and deposit the minimum share capital of NOK 30,000 into a blocked bank account.
Step 3: Register with the Brønnøysund Register Centre
Submit your registration online at the Brønnøysund Register Centre, providing details about shareholders, board members, and other key information.
Step 4: Get Your Organization Number
After registration, you’ll receive your organization number, just like a sole proprietorship.
Step 5: Register for VAT (if applicable)
If your company’s turnover exceeds NOK 50,000, register for VAT with Skatteetaten.
Step 6: Appoint a Board of Directors
Norwegian law requires appointing a board of directors. Ensure your setup complies with these regulations.
FREE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU SUCCEED
Step 1: Start with the Free Business Checklist
Get your step-by-step guide to building a strong foundation for your coaching or consulting business.
Step 2: Watch the Free Training
Learn the five blind spots that can sabotage your success -- How to fix them, legally protect your business and gain peace of mind.
About the Author
Hi! I’m Vena Verga-Danemar, an Onlinepreneur Legal Strategist. As both a lawyer and an online business owner, I’ve helped dozens of coaches, consultants, and course creators legally start and grow their businesses using strategies that don’t require working 24/7.
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