
This permit is for non-EEA nationals running their own sole proprietorship in Norway. Limited companies (AS) do not qualify, the work must require skilled qualifications, and the business must be expected to give you enough income to live on.
Norway's self-employment residence permit lets a qualified non-EEA national live in the country to run their own business — but specifically a sole proprietorship (enkeltpersonforetak) registered in Norway. A limited company (AS) does not qualify for this route, which is an important distinction to get right at the outset.
The activity you carry out must require skilled-worker level qualifications relevant to the work, and the business has to be expected to generate sufficient income for you to live on. Any professional permits or authorisations the activity needs must also be in place before you can rely on it.
The application is decided by UDI, which looks closely at your qualifications and the viability of the business. Because the company-form rule and the income expectation are decisive, getting the structure right early is key. ACME can help you check whether your plan fits the sole-proprietorship route, and we suggest confirming the current requirements on udi.no first.
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Guidance only, not legal advice. ACME is an independent consultancy, not affiliated with any government. Rules change, confirm details with official sources.