Question 1

1. Is it legal to buy a shelf company in Norway?

Accepted Answer

Yes, buying a shelf company in Norway is fully legal and recognised under Norwegian company law. Shelf companies are incorporated in advance, remain dormant, and are later transferred to new owners through a lawful share transfer process. Once ownership is transferred, the company is updated in the Norwegian company register and can begin trading. This method is commonly used by entrepreneurs who need a faster route to market while remaining fully compliant with statutory requirements.

Question 2

2. What type of company is provided as a Norwegian shelf company?

Accepted Answer

Norwegian shelf companies are typically structured as an AS (Aksjeselskap), which is Norway's standard limited liability company. An AS offers limited liability protection to shareholders, making it suitable for commercial trading, holding structures, and international operations. This structure is widely accepted by banks, investors, and counterparties and is the preferred corporate form for both local and foreign-owned businesses operating in Norway.

Question 3

3. Has a Norwegian shelf company traded before purchase?

Accepted Answer

No. A legitimate shelf company in Norway is completely dormant prior to sale. It has never traded, issued invoices, employed staff, or conducted any business activity. The company exists only as a registered legal entity and holds no assets, liabilities, or contractual obligations. This ensures that when you acquire the company, you are starting with a clean corporate history and no inherited financial or legal risk.

Question 4

4. Can foreign individuals or companies buy a shelf company in Norway?

Accepted Answer

Yes, non-resident individuals and foreign corporate entities are permitted to buy a shelf company in Norway. However, all foreign owners must comply with Norwegian AML and KYC regulations. This includes identity verification, proof of address, and disclosure of the intended business activity. Additional requirements may apply depending on ownership structure, but foreign ownership of Norwegian AS companies is widely accepted and legally supported.

Question 5

5. How long does it take to complete the purchase of a shelf company in Norway?

Accepted Answer

The transfer of a Norwegian shelf company typically takes between 3 and 7 working days once all required documentation has been submitted and verified. This timeline includes compliance checks, share transfer execution, and updates to the Norwegian company register. Additional services such as bank account applications or VAT registration may extend the overall timeline, as these depend on third-party approvals.

Question 6

6. Does a Norwegian shelf company come with a bank account?

Accepted Answer

Shelf companies do not usually come with an active bank account, as Norwegian banks require due diligence on the new owners. However, professional bank account assistance is commonly provided as part of the service. This includes preparation of documentation, application support, and guidance through the bank's compliance process. Final approval is always at the discretion of the chosen bank.

Question 7

7. Is VAT registration included with a shelf company?

Accepted Answer

VAT registration in Norway is not automatic and is generally offered as an optional service. A company must demonstrate taxable activity or meet turnover thresholds to be eligible for VAT registration. Assistance can be provided to prepare and submit the VAT application, but approval depends on the Norwegian tax authorities and the nature of the business activities being conducted.

Question 8

8. Can the company name be changed after purchase?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the company name can be changed during or after the ownership transfer process. Name changes are submitted to the Norwegian company register and must comply with local naming regulations. Once approved, the new name becomes legally effective and can be used for contracts, banking, and trading. This allows buyers to align the shelf company fully with their brand and commercial objectives.

Question 9

9. What is the minimum share capital requirement for a Norwegian AS company?

Accepted Answer

The minimum share capital requirement for a Norwegian AS company is currently NOK 30,000. This capital must be properly documented and maintained in accordance with Norwegian law. When purchasing a shelf company, confirmation is provided that the share capital requirement has been met at incorporation, ensuring the company is legally compliant from the outset.

Question 10

10. Are there ongoing compliance obligations after purchase?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once you own a Norwegian shelf company, you must comply with ongoing statutory obligations. These include maintaining proper accounting records, filing annual accounts, submitting confirmation statements, and meeting tax reporting requirements. Companies engaged in trading may also have VAT and payroll obligations. Ongoing compliance support is strongly recommended to ensure the company remains in good legal standing.

Question 11

11. What checks are performed before a shelf company is sold?

Accepted Answer

Before a shelf company is transferred, it is reviewed to confirm it has remained dormant and free from liabilities. This includes verification of its registration status, share capital, statutory filings, and absence of trading activity. These checks are essential to ensure the buyer receives a clean, compliant entity with no hidden risks or obligations attached.

Question 12

12. Is buying a shelf company faster than forming a new company in Norway?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Buying a shelf company is generally faster than forming a new company from scratch in Norway. New company formation can take several weeks due to incorporation filings and approvals, whereas a shelf company already exists and only requires a share transfer and updates. This makes shelf companies ideal for urgent market entry or time-sensitive business opportunities.

Question 13

13. Can a shelf company be used immediately for trading?

Accepted Answer

Once the ownership transfer is completed and the company details are updated, the shelf company can begin trading. However, certain activities may require additional steps, such as opening a corporate bank account or obtaining VAT registration. These practical requirements should be completed before trading commences to ensure full regulatory compliance.

Question 14

14. Does the age of a shelf company provide any advantages?

Accepted Answer

An aged shelf company can offer perceived credibility, particularly when dealing with counterparties that value an established registration date. While company age does not replace financial substance or operational history, it can be advantageous in tendering processes or negotiations where a newly incorporated entity may be viewed as less established.

Question 15

15. Are shelf companies suitable for holding or investment structures?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Norwegian shelf companies are commonly used for holding companies, investment vehicles, and special purpose entities. Their clean history and immediate availability make them suitable for structuring investments, acquiring assets, or holding shares in subsidiaries, provided the structure complies with Norwegian corporate and tax regulations.

Question 16

16. What documents are required from individual buyers?

Accepted Answer

Individual buyers are typically required to provide a valid passport or national ID, proof of residential address, and a brief description of intended business activities. Additional documentation may be requested depending on the bank or regulatory requirements. These checks are standard and are conducted to comply with Norwegian AML and KYC regulations.

Question 17

17. What documents are required from corporate buyers?

Accepted Answer

Corporate buyers must usually provide incorporation documents, articles of association, registers of directors and shareholders, and identification for ultimate beneficial owners. Proof of the company's registered address and authorised signatory details are also required. These documents ensure transparency and compliance with Norwegian and international regulatory standards.

Question 18

18. Can I appoint non-resident directors to a Norwegian shelf company?

Accepted Answer

Yes, non-resident directors can be appointed, but Norwegian regulations may require at least one director or authorised representative to be resident within the EEA. This requirement varies depending on the company's structure and activities. Professional advice is recommended to ensure director appointments meet all statutory requirements.

Question 19

19. Is a Norwegian registered address required?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All Norwegian companies must maintain a registered address in Norway. This address is used for official correspondence and regulatory notices. If the buyer does not have a local address, registered address services can often be provided as part of a compliance support package.

Question 20

20. Can a shelf company be converted to another business activity later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A Norwegian shelf company can change its business purpose after purchase by updating its articles of association and notifying the company register. This flexibility allows businesses to adapt the company's scope as operations evolve, provided all changes are properly filed and compliant with applicable regulations.

Question 21

21. Are shelf companies suitable for EU market entry strategies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Norway's strong regulatory framework and reputation make shelf companies attractive for EU and Nordic market entry strategies. While Norway is not an EU member, it is part of the EEA, allowing access to many European markets. Shelf companies enable faster establishment while maintaining credibility and compliance.

Question 22

22. What taxes apply to Norwegian shelf companies after activation?

Accepted Answer

Once active, a Norwegian shelf company is subject to corporate income tax, VAT (if registered), and employer-related taxes if staff are hired. Tax obligations depend on the nature of business activities and turnover. Proper accounting and tax planning are essential to ensure compliance and efficient financial management.

Question 23

23. Can I sell the shelf company in the future?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As a shareholder, you may sell your Norwegian company in the future, subject to legal and contractual considerations. Any sale must comply with Norwegian company law and may have tax implications. Professional advice is recommended to structure the transaction appropriately.

Question 24

24. Is buying a shelf company more expensive than new formation?

Accepted Answer

Shelf companies typically cost more upfront than new formations due to the convenience, speed, and pre-incorporation work involved. However, for businesses where time is critical, the additional cost is often justified by faster market entry and reduced administrative burden.

Question 25

25. How do I ensure I'm buying a compliant Norwegian shelf company?

Accepted Answer

To ensure compliance, work with a reputable provider that performs full due diligence, provides clear documentation, and explains all legal obligations. A compliant shelf company should be dormant, properly capitalised, and correctly registered. Transparency, documentation, and professional guidance are key indicators of a legitimate offering.

Aspect	Ready-Made Shelf Company in Norway	New Company Formation in Norway
Speed	Immediate availability after transfer	Typically 2-4 weeks (can extend due to approvals)
Company Age	Already incorporated and aged	Newly incorporated
Setup Risk	Low — entity is pre-checked and dormant	Moderate — delays possible during registration
Compliance Status	Pre-registered with the Norwegian company register	Requires full incorporation filings
Trading History	No trading, no liabilities	No history
Administrative Effort	Minimal — ownership transfer only	Higher — incorporation, filings, approvals
Credibility Perception	Higher due to existing registration date	Lower for very new entities
Ideal For	Urgent market entry, tenders, contracts	Long-term planning with flexible timelines

Company Name	Org. Number	Inc. Date	Year	Status	Action
Fjord Consulting AS	NO 923 456 789	12/01/2025	2025	Good Standing	Inquire
Nordic Trading Group AS	NO 923 456 790	18/01/2025	2025	Good Standing	Inquire
Oslo Tech Ventures AS	NO 923 456 791	25/01/2025	2025	Good Standing	Inquire
Bergen Maritime Services AS	NO 912 345 678	05/11/2024	2024	Good Standing	Inquire
Stavanger Energy Solutions AS	NO 912 345 679	15/11/2024	2024	Good Standing	Inquire
Trondheim Innovation AS	NO 912 345 680	28/11/2024	2024	Good Standing	Inquire
Lofoten Seafood Export AS	NO 901 234 567	10/05/2023	2023	Good Standing	Inquire
Drammen Logistics AS	NO 901 234 568	22/06/2023	2023	Good Standing	Inquire
Sandnes Property AS	NO 901 234 569	15/08/2023	2023	Good Standing	Inquire
Kristiansand Holdings AS	NO 890 123 456	03/02/2022	2022	Good Standing	Inquire
Tromsø Marine Services AS	NO 890 123 457	20/04/2022	2022	Good Standing	Inquire
Ålesund Fishing Industries AS	NO 890 123 458	12/09/2022	2022	Good Standing	Inquire
Bodø Renewable Energy AS	NO 878 901 234	08/01/2021	2021	Good Standing	Inquire
Haugesund Shipping AS	NO 878 901 235	17/06/2021	2021	Good Standing	Inquire
Fredrikstad Manufacturing AS	NO 878 901 236	25/11/2021	2021	Good Standing	Inquire

Package	Basic	Standard	Comprehensive	Ultimate (Best Value)
Price (€)	€3,500	€4,800	€6,400	€8,700
Ready-made Norwegian shelf company (AS)	✔	✔	✔	✔
Clean, dormant status with no trading history	✔	✔	✔	✔
Immediate share transfer	✔	✔	✔	✔
Certificate of Incorporation	✔	✔	✔	✔
Articles of Association	✔	✔	✔	✔
Change of directors and shareholders	✖	✔	✔	✔
Company name change	✖	✔	✔	✔
VAT registration support	✖	✖	✔	✔
Bank account assistance	✖	✖	✔	✔
Aged Norwegian shelf company	✖	✖	✔	✔
Priority processing	✖	✖	✖	✔
Dedicated relationship manager	✖	✖	✖	✔
Our Recommendation	Holding structures, future operations	Active trading or contractual commitments	Growing SMEs and international trading companies	International founders and complex cross-border structures
Call to Action	Get in Touch	Get in Touch	Get in Touch	Get in Touch

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What Is a Ready-Made Shelf Company in Norway?

Why Buy a Shelf Company in Norway?

Who Typically Uses Norwegian Shelf Companies?

Ready-Made Shelf Company vs New Company Formation in Norway

What's Included When You Buy a Shelf Company in Norway

Included as standard:

Due Diligence & Risk Checks

Dormant Status Verification

Hidden Liability Screening

Banking Reality Transparency

Available Ready-Made Shelf Companies in Norway

Important Notes on Norwegian Entities

Norway-Specific Legal Requirements You Must Know

Choose the Right Package for Your Ready-Made Shelf Company in Norway

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From Selection to Operation: How the Process Works

Typical Timeline

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Tax Treatment of Ready-Made Shelf Companies in Norway

Taxes That May Apply After Activation

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Frequently Asked Questions — Ready-Made Shelf Companies in Norway