February 02, 2026
Business decisions in Norway are typically methodical and long-term. Quick deals are rare; instead, companies that take the time to plan strategically, invest in relationships and demonstrate persistence tend to build credibility and long-lasting partnerships. One of the key words in Norwegian corporate culture is kartlegging, which can mean mapping, assessing, analysing, as well as preparing and identifying. This stands in clear contrast to many Central and Southern European business cultures, where a more “let’s make a deal today” approach is common.
In Norway, pricing that is unrealistically low raises more concerns than interest. Low bids can signal poor compliance with labour regulations, Achilles’ heels in supply chain management or lack of quality assurance — all of which harm credibility in a market where trust and contracts depend on clarity and certainty. High quality of services means absolute complience with Norwegian labour regulations.
Meeting deadlines and keeping commitments are deeply ingrained in the Norwegian business mindset. Late deliveries or missed timelines can quickly erode trust, even if the quality of work is excellent. If you know you will be late for a business meeting, move it to a different date - don't come late.
Norwegian partners appreciate meetings that are well structured and focused on substance. Vagueness or lack of detail is often interpreted not as flexibility, but as lack of preparedness — something that can hinder collaboration from the very start. Do not dwell on the history of your company. Rather say something about the safe environment for your employees, definitly mention Health and Safety policies. Be honest and brief. Small talk is not common during business meetings in the Nordics.
In sectors such as construction, electrical services, industrial installations or IT consulting, being on the right legal footing is crucial. This means:
In Norway, everything must be documented, easily accessible and verifiable. This spans:
Working with an experienced accountant in Norway is more than a compliance function — it is a strategic advantage. Accounting in Norway touches on:
Norwegian organisational culture is typically:
The Norwegian market is not “difficult” — but it is demanding in terms of preparation and compliance. Companies that understand the rules, embrace transparency and invest in long-term relationships build the most resilient operations.
As an advisor in an authorized accounting office working daily with foreign companies operating in Norway, I regularly see the same pattern: success is not about having the cheapest offer - it is about understanding the rules, the culture and the expectations.
This article brings together practical, real-world insights from working daily with foreign companies in Norway - including reflections from the recent expert webinar organised by the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH).
📈 Nordic Markets: Norway or Sweden? Choose the right expansion direction and avoid costly mistakes,
During the webinar experts shared practical considerations that foreign companies must bear in mind before entering Nordic markets.
This article brings together practical, real-world insights from working daily with foreign companies in Norway - including reflections from the recent expert webinar organised by the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH).
During the webinar experts shared practical considerations that foreign companies must bear in mind before entering Nordic markets.
- Tomasz Nierzwicki lawyer with
Advokatfirma Nierzwicki & Bluszko AS (legal aspects of doing business in Norway) - Daniel Jastrun, lawyer with
JustLAW , affiliated with the Swedish-Polish Chamber of Commerce - and others from
PAIH regional and foreign offices .
Understanding the Norwegian Business Culture
Patience and Long-Term Orientation
Business decisions in Norway are typically methodical and long-term. Quick deals are rare; instead, companies that take the time to plan strategically, invest in relationships and demonstrate persistence tend to build credibility and long-lasting partnerships. One of the key words in Norwegian corporate culture is kartlegging, which can mean mapping, assessing, analysing, as well as preparing and identifying. This stands in clear contrast to many Central and Southern European business cultures, where a more “let’s make a deal today” approach is common.
Realistic Pricing Matters
In Norway, pricing that is unrealistically low raises more concerns than interest. Low bids can signal poor compliance with labour regulations, Achilles’ heels in supply chain management or lack of quality assurance — all of which harm credibility in a market where trust and contracts depend on clarity and certainty. High quality of services means absolute complience with Norwegian labour regulations.
Punctuality and Reliability Are Non-Negotiable
Meeting deadlines and keeping commitments are deeply ingrained in the Norwegian business mindset. Late deliveries or missed timelines can quickly erode trust, even if the quality of work is excellent. If you know you will be late for a business meeting, move it to a different date - don't come late.
Preparation and Precision Are Expected
Norwegian partners appreciate meetings that are well structured and focused on substance. Vagueness or lack of detail is often interpreted not as flexibility, but as lack of preparedness — something that can hinder collaboration from the very start. Do not dwell on the history of your company. Rather say something about the safe environment for your employees, definitly mention Health and Safety policies. Be honest and brief. Small talk is not common during business meetings in the Nordics.
Compliance Is the Foundation of Business Success
Certificates, Authorisations and Legal Standing
In sectors such as construction, electrical services, industrial installations or IT consulting, being on the right legal footing is crucial. This means:
- recognised professional qualifications,
- certificates appropriate to the industry,
- registrations with Norwegian authorities,
- and transparent documentation of compliance.
Without these, companies risk losing credibility — or even being excluded from bidding processes.
Documentation and Transparency
In Norway, everything must be documented, easily accessible and verifiable. This spans:
- employment contracts,
- payroll records,
- tax and VAT compliance,
- training and competence certificates.
What some markets treat as optional paperwork, Norway treats as part of the baseline for doing business.
The Role of Professional Accounting in Norway
Working with an experienced accountant in Norway is more than a compliance function — it is a strategic advantage. Accounting in Norway touches on:
- tax compliance and optimisation,
- structuring business entities (e.g., NUF vs AS),
- payroll and employment regulations,
- regulatory reporting,
- VAT obligations.
A local accountant can help navigate complex reporting requirements, avoid costly mistakes and maintain alignment with evolving regulations.
Direct Communication and Flat Structures
Norwegian organisational culture is typically:
- direct,
- informal in hierarchy,
- focused on efficiency and clarity.
Foreign managers who embrace straightforward communication often find collaboration to be easier, more predictable and potentially more productive.
Why This Matters for Foreign Companies
The Norwegian market is not “difficult” — but it is demanding in terms of preparation and compliance. Companies that understand the rules, embrace transparency and invest in long-term relationships build the most resilient operations.
FAQ – Doing Business in Norway
Is Norway a good country for foreign companies?
Yes, but only for companies that understand compliance, business culture and long-term strategy.
What is the biggest challenge for foreign companies in Norway?
Compliance with labour law, tax obligations and certification requirements. Remember, Norway is not an EU member.
Do I need a local accountant in Norway?
Yes. Norwegian accounting includes legal, tax and compliance aspects that require local expertise. According to Accounting Law, only accountants authorized by theNorwegian Financial Supervisory Board (Finanstilsynet) can provide services for external clients. .
Can a foreign company operate in Norway without registering?
No. Registration and compliance are mandatory before starting operations.
Why is documentation so important in Norway?
Because transparency and traceability are the foundation of trust between companies and authorities.
Author: Anna Korpalska
Graphics: Canva
Special Thanks to:PAIH , Tomasz Nierzwicki , Daniel Jastru n
Yes, but only for companies that understand compliance, business culture and long-term strategy.
What is the biggest challenge for foreign companies in Norway?
Compliance with labour law, tax obligations and certification requirements. Remember, Norway is not an EU member.
Do I need a local accountant in Norway?
Yes. Norwegian accounting includes legal, tax and compliance aspects that require local expertise. According to Accounting Law, only accountants authorized by the
Can a foreign company operate in Norway without registering?
No. Registration and compliance are mandatory before starting operations.
Why is documentation so important in Norway?
Because transparency and traceability are the foundation of trust between companies and authorities.
Graphics: Canva
Special Thanks to:
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