Best Golden Visa Lawyers in Larvik

About Golden Visa Law in Larvik, Norway

Norway does not operate a formal "Golden Visa" program like some other countries that grant residency directly in return for real estate purchases or passive investment. Instead, residence in Norway - including in Larvik - is granted under defined immigration categories in the Immigration Act. Relevant routes for people seeking residency on the basis of money, business activity, or investment include residence permits for self-employed persons and entrepreneurs, skilled-worker permits, family immigration, and other work-related permits. Buying property in Larvik or elsewhere in Norway does not by itself create a right to live in Norway.

For anyone interested in moving to Larvik because of investment or business reasons, the central administrative body is the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration - UDI - which sets national requirements for residence permits, and local formalities are handled by municipal authorities, the police and national registers.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Immigration and cross-border investment matters can be legally complex. A lawyer who specializes in Norwegian immigration and commercial law can help in many common situations:

- Assessing which residence permit category best fits your circumstances - entrepreneur, self-employed, skilled worker, family immigration or other.

- Drafting and reviewing business plans and documentation required for entrepreneur or self-employment permits.

- Preparing and organising supporting evidence to meet UDI criteria, including financial statements, contracts, leases and proof of funds.

- Handling purchase agreements and due diligence when buying property in Larvik, including compliance with local zoning and planning rules.

- Advising on tax residency, corporate tax consequences, VAT and reporting requirements in Norway.

- Representing you in administrative appeals if a residence permit application is refused or if you face enforcement measures.

- Helping with family immigration cases where complex family status, adoption, or previous residency history is involved.

- Advising on compliance with anti-money laundering checks and source-of-funds documentation commonly required for substantial transactions.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal and administrative aspects to understand when pursuing residency or investment-related matters in Larvik include the following:

- Immigration rules - The Immigration Act and associated regulations govern who may be granted residence in Norway, the grounds for different permit types, required documentation, processing times and rules on renewals and permanent residence.

- Business and company law - Company registration is handled via the Brønnøysund Register Centre. If you plan to start a company, you must meet registration, bookkeeping and reporting obligations, and follow rules about employment contracts and workplace laws if hiring staff.

- Tax law - Norwegian tax residency rules generally depend on your length of stay and economic ties. If you become tax resident in Norway, you will be subject to Norwegian taxation on worldwide income. You should get tailored tax advice before relocating or establishing business operations.

- Property, planning and municipal rules - Purchasing property does not automatically grant residency. Local building laws, zoning regulations and permit requirements are enforced by Larvik municipality. Renovations and certain types of development require municipal permits.

- Registration and identity - If you move to Larvik for more than six months you generally register in the National Population Register - Folkeregisteret - and get a Norwegian personal identification number. Shorter stays may result in a D-number. Registration affects access to health services, banking and tax.

- Labour and social rules - Employment permits, working conditions, pay rules and social security registration are governed by national labour law and the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration - NAV.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a "Golden Visa" in the Norwegian context?

There is no official Norwegian "Golden Visa" program. The term is sometimes used informally to describe residency options based on business activity or investment. In Norway, residence is granted under defined permit types such as entrepreneur or self-employed permits, skilled-worker permits and family immigration. Each has specific requirements and does not rely solely on investing in property.

Can I get residency by buying property in Larvik?

No. Purchasing real estate in Larvik does not by itself give a right to live in Norway. You need a valid residence permit under one of the immigration categories to stay long term. Property ownership may support aspects of an application, such as demonstrating intent to live in Norway, but it is not a standalone basis for residence.

What are the main immigration routes for investors and entrepreneurs?

Common routes include the residence permit for self-employed persons and entrepreneurs and permits for skilled workers if you can document employment. Requirements often include a viable business plan, proof of sufficient funds to run the business, documentation about the company structure and commercial viability, and compliance with labour and tax obligations.

How long does it take to get a residence permit decision?

Processing times vary depending on the permit type and the complexity of your case. UDI publishes general processing-time guidelines, but it is common for entrepreneur and complex cases to take several months. Submitting complete documentation up front can reduce delays.

Will I become a Norwegian tax resident if I move to Larvik?

Tax residency in Norway is based on the number of days in the country and your economic connections. The main rules are living in Norway for more than 183 days in a 12-month period or more than 270 days in a 36-month period. Becoming tax resident has implications for global income taxation, social security and reporting requirements, so seek professional tax advice before relocating.

Do I need to register with the municipality when I arrive in Larvik?

Yes. If you plan to stay longer than six months, you should register in the National Population Register and with Larvik municipality for local services. If staying for less time you may get a D-number for tax and administrative purposes. Registration is necessary for health care access, opening bank accounts and local municipal services.

Can a lawyer represent me in an appeal if my permit is refused?

Yes. If UDI or the Norwegian immigration authorities refuse your application, you may have the right to appeal. A lawyer experienced in immigration appeals can prepare the appeal, gather additional evidence and represent you before the relevant administrative bodies or courts.

What documents are typically required for an entrepreneur or self-employment application?

Typical documents include a detailed business plan, proof of sufficient personal funds or company capital, documentation of relevant experience or qualifications, company registration documents if formed, contracts or letters of intent from potential customers or partners, and financial forecasts. Requirements vary, so tailored legal guidance is useful.

How do I choose a lawyer in Larvik who understands Golden Visa type matters?

Look for lawyers who specialise in immigration and commercial law, have experience with entrepreneur and investor cases, and who are authorised to practise in Norway. Ask for references, check membership in the Norwegian Bar Association - Advokatforeningen - and confirm language ability and fee structures. A local lawyer can also advise on municipal rules specific to Larvik.

What about family members - can they join me in Larvik?

Family immigration rules allow spouses, registered partners and dependent children to apply for residence in many cases. The precise rules depend on your permit type and familial circumstances. Family members usually need to submit separate applications and meet documentary requirements. A lawyer can help coordinate concurrent applications and explain financial support obligations.

Additional Resources

When researching or preparing an application, the following Norwegian authorities and organisations are important to consult or contact:

- Norwegian Directorate of Immigration - UDI

- The local police unit that handles immigration matters

- Folkeregisteret - National Population Register

- Skatteetaten - Norwegian Tax Administration

- Brønnøysund Register Centre - company registration and public registers

- Larvik kommune - municipal planning, building and local services

- NAV - Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration for social security and employment issues

- Advokatforeningen - The Norwegian Bar Association for finding qualified lawyers

- Innovation Norway and local chambers of commerce for business support and guidance on setting up companies

Next Steps

If you are considering residency in Larvik based on investment or business activity, follow these practical steps:

- Initial assessment - Compile an outline of your circumstances: nationality, intended length of stay, investment amount, planned business activity, family members and prior immigration history. This helps identify the most relevant permit route.

- Consult a specialist - Book a consultation with a Norwegian lawyer who specialises in immigration and business law to review your case and advise on documentation and strategy.

- Prepare documentation - Work with your lawyer to create or refine a business plan, gather proof of funds, contracts and personal documents such as passports, birth certificates and qualifications. Obtain certified translations if needed.

- Check tax implications - Speak with a tax advisor about personal and corporate tax consequences of moving to Norway and the steps to manage tax residency issues.

- Submit the application - Follow your lawyer's guidance to submit a complete application to the relevant immigration authority and pay required fees.

- Register locally - If your permit is granted, register with the National Population Register, Larvik municipality and the tax authorities. Arrange health coverage and other necessary local registrations.

- Stay compliant - Keep records, comply with renewal rules, meet corporate and tax reporting obligations and seek help promptly if circumstances change or if you receive an adverse decision.

Because immigration and tax rules change and cases are highly fact sensitive, this guide is for informational purposes only. For specific legal advice tailored to your situation, seek a qualified lawyer in Norway.