Ny lov om foretaksregistrering

On 1 February 2025, a new regulation on access to the shareholder register and shareholder ledger entered into force in Norway. It replaces the 1976 regulations and modernises the legal framework for access by clarifying procedures and adapting to modern digital practices. It does not expand the substantive scope of accessible information but facilitates more efficient and less burdensome disclosure of ownership data. The regulation forms part of a broader governmental initiative to promote transparency regarding the control and ownership of Norwegian companies. It introduces new rules on how and when access must be granted, establishes shorter response times, and limits cost recovery to narrowly defined situations. The new provisions aim to strike a balance between transparency, privacy, and practical feasibility. This article outlines the new legal framework, analyses its implications, and considers whether the regulation adequately ensures effective and predictable access in practice.