Business Loans in Norway

Kristian Ole Rørbye

By Kristian Ole Rørbye

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Access our overview business loan in Norway, detailing interest rates, loan amounts, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria to support informed financial decisions for your business.

Eligibility Requirements for Business Loans in Norway

Before applying for a business loan in Norway, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria set by financial institutions. These requirements are designed to assess a business’s financial health and its ability to repay the loan. Below is a comprehensive list of the key eligibility criteria you need to meet to secure a business loan in Norway:

  • Legal Entity: Applicants must operate as a registered business entity in Norway, complying with local business regulations and laws.
  • Financial Records: Submission of comprehensive financial records, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, is mandatory.
  • Credit Score: A strong business credit score is essential to demonstrate creditworthiness and secure favorable loan terms.
  • Operational History: Businesses should have a minimum operational history, typically two years, to qualify for most loan offerings.
  • Revenue Thresholds: There are specific revenue thresholds that businesses must meet or exceed, showcasing financial stability and capability to repay the loan.
  • Purpose of the Loan: Clear articulation of the loan’s purpose, whether for expansion, equipment, or working capital, is required to assess the loan’s alignment with business goals.
  • Collateral: Depending on the loan type and amount, collateral may be necessary to secure the financing.
  • Owner’s Equity: A certain level of owner’s equity in the business is often a prerequisite, ensuring that owners have a vested interest in the company’s success.
  • Compliance: Adherence to all relevant Norwegian and EU regulations is crucial for loan approval.

Loan Terms

When exploring business loans in Norway, understanding the loan terms is essential for making informed financial decisions. These terms outline the repayment structure, interest rates, and other pivotal details of your loan agreement. Based on our data, here’s a detailed look at the typical loan terms for business loans in Norway:

  • Loan Amount: Typically, businesses can access loan amounts ranging from NOK 100,000 to NOK 5,000,000, allowing companies of various sizes to secure the funding they need.
  • Repayment Period: Our data indicates that the common repayment periods for business loans in Norway extend from 1 to 10 years, offering flexibility to match different financial planning and cash flow scenarios.
  • Interest Rates: The average interest rates for business loans in Norway are between 5% and 7%. These rates are influenced by market conditions, the borrower’s creditworthiness, and the specifics of the loan.
  • Fees and Charges: Businesses should anticipate an application fee of approximately 1% of the loan amount, along with varying processing fees. Early repayment penalties, if applicable, tend to range from 1% to 3% of the outstanding loan amount.
  • Repayment Schedule: The majority of businesses opt for monthly repayments, aligning with their regular cash flow cycles. However, quarterly or annual options are also available for those with different financial arrangements.
  • Collateral Requirements: About 60% of business loans in Norway require collateral, typically in the form of real estate or business assets.
  • Covenants: Loan agreements often include financial covenants, such as maintaining a minimum liquidity ratio or debt-to-equity ratio, ensuring the business remains financially stable throughout the loan term.
  • Early Repayment: Our data shows that approximately 50% of business loan products in Norway offer the option for early repayment without penalties, providing businesses with the flexibility to manage their debts as their financial situation evolves.

Understanding the different types of business loans in Norway

Each type of loan serves a specific purpose, catering to different needs, from short-term cash flow boosts to long-term investment financing.

Here’s an overview of the types of business loans available in Norway.

Term Loans

These are traditional loans with fixed repayment schedules, typically used for specific business investments or expansion. Term loans in Norway usually offer amounts ranging from NOK 100,000 to NOK 5,000,000, with repayment periods from 1 to 10 years.

Revolving Credit

A flexible financing option where businesses can draw, repay, and redraw funds up to a predetermined credit limit. This is ideal for managing cash flow fluctuations and unexpected expenses. The average credit limit for revolving credit facilities in Norway is around NOK 500,000.

Invoice Financing

This type of loan allows businesses to borrow against the value of their unpaid invoices, providing immediate working capital. Typically, up to 85% of the invoice value can be advanced to the business.

Equipment Financing

This loan type is specifically designed for purchasing equipment. It enables businesses to use the equipment itself as collateral. Loan amounts are generally up to 100% of the equipment’s purchase price.

Commercial Mortgages

These loans are secured against commercial property and can be used to purchase or refinance it. Terms can extend up to 20 years, and loan-to-value ratios commonly reach 75%.

Microloans

These are smaller loans, often below NOK 100,000, aimed at startups or small enterprises needing a modest capital boost. Microloans typically have shorter repayment terms and may have more flexible eligibility criteria.

Example of a business loan in Norway

ParameterDetails
TypeMicroloan
AmountNOK 50,000
Interest Rate8% per annum
Term2 years
Monthly RepaymentNOK 2,260
Total Repayment AmountNOK 54,240
Application FeeNOK 500 (1% of loan amount)
Early Repayment Fee2% of remaining balance
Collateral RequiredNo
PurposeGeneral business needs

FAQs

Can foreign-owned businesses apply for business loans in Norway?

Yes, foreign-owned businesses can apply for business loans in Norway. However, they must be registered in the Norwegian Business Register and comply with all local business regulations. The eligibility criteria remain the same, including the need for a strong business plan and financial stability.

What documentation is required to apply for a business loan in Norway?

Typically, businesses need to provide a detailed business plan, financial statements (including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements), tax returns, bank statements, and proof of collateral, if applicable. The exact requirements can vary depending on the lender and the type of loan.

How long does it take to get a business loan approved in Norway?

The approval time can vary widely depending on the lender and the complexity of the loan application. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Ensuring all necessary documentation is provided promptly can help speed up the process.

Are there any government-supported loans for startups in Norway?

Yes, the Norwegian government offers various support schemes for startups, including grants, loan guarantees, and direct loans. These programs are designed to support innovation and growth in the Norwegian economy. Businesses should check the current offerings and eligibility criteria on government websites or consult with financial advisors.

Can I repay my business loan early, and are there penalties for doing so?

Many lenders in Norway allow early repayment of business loans. However, whether there are penalties depends on the specific loan agreement. Some loans may have early repayment fees, typically a percentage of the outstanding loan amount, while others offer penalty-free early repayment options. It’s crucial to review the loan terms or consult with the lender directly to understand the conditions related to early repayment.