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Have you been asked to register a business to get a job?

If you find yourself in a situation where someone asks you to register a sole proprietorship in order to get a job, it's important to be aware that this is not something others can decide for you. You must have a personal desire to start a business, while also ensuring that you meet the criteria for being self-employed.
Last updated 05.09.2025

Working for a client

If you are taking on work for a principal that places their equipment at your disposal and decides when and how the work is to be performed, you are likely to be considered as an employee and should have an employment contract and receive salary.

The Norwegian Tax Administration – Employee or self-employed?

The Working Environment Act on employment

The general rule in the Working Environment Act is that workers should be employed on a permanent contract. A permanent contract means that the employment is open-ended without a set termination date, the employee is ensured a predictable number of work hours, and that the rules concerning termination applies. The employment contract should specify how much the employee is supposed to work (for example by specifying a percentage of full-time position). Yet, under certain conditions and in certain situations it is possible employ someone temporarily.

Guidance and assistance

The Labour Inspection Authority have limited authority to instruct in these matters and can generally only provide advice and guidance regarding the provisions of the Act relating to employments. If a conflict arises, you may seek legal assistance. If you are a member of a trade union, you may seek assistance from the union.