Starting a restaurant
How much does it cost to start a restaurant in Norway?
An overview of public fees, exam fees and the largest start-up costs when you open a restaurant, café or bar.
By TestPrep · 2 min read
There is no fixed price
What it costs to start a restaurant depends mostly on the premises, the equipment and the concept. A small takeaway in fitted premises costs far less than a new restaurant with a full kitchen and bar. Make a budget with three parts: public fees, one-off costs before opening and running costs for the first months. The figures in this guide are public fees; the rest must come from your own quotes.
Exam fee for Etablererprøven and Kunnskapsprøven
Municipalities normally charge NOK 400 per attempt for Etablererprøven and for Kunnskapsprøven. The general manager needs Etablererprøven, and the manager (styrer) and deputy (stedfortreder) need Kunnskapsprøven if you will serve alcohol. With three people that is three exams, and the cost rises if anyone has to retake. Good preparation saves both money and time before opening.
Licences and registration
Registration with Mattilsynet (the Norwegian Food Safety Authority) is free. Whether the municipality charges a fee for processing a serveringsbevilling varies – check the municipality's website. A skjenkebevilling has an annual fee based on how much alcohol you expect to serve, with a minimum rate set in the alcohol regulations. Registering the company in the Brønnøysund Register Centre may also carry a fee, depending on the type of business.
The big one-off costs
Deposit and rent, renovation, ventilation, kitchen equipment, refrigeration, a till system, furniture and the first stock are usually the biggest items. Renovation and change of use can require a building application, so clarify this with the municipality before signing a lease. Get several quotes and add a buffer for unexpected costs.
Running costs in the first months
Plan for wages, rent, purchases, electricity, insurance, accounting and taxes before income is stable. The municipality may ask for a budget and financing plan when you apply for a serveringsbevilling. Etablererprøven covers financial management, accounting, tax and VAT, so what you learn for the exam is useful when you build the budget.
Sources and official information
The information is based on official sources. Information from Oslo is used as local examples. Always check current requirements, fees and application procedures with your own municipality and the relevant authority.