G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
27 April 2021  
(21-3596) Page: 1/23 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original: English  
 
REPLIES TO QUESTIONNAIRE ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES1 
NOTIFICATION UNDER ARTICLE 7.3 OF THE AGREEMENT  
ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES (2021)  
NORWAY  
The following communication, dated 15 April 2021, is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation  of Norway . 
 
 
_______________  
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
 
1. AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS  ................................ ................................ ..........................  2 
A. Import Licence for Certain Products which Might be Used as Feeding Stuff in Domestic  
Animal Production  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  2 
B. Security Mechanism and Surveillance System for Duty - and Quota -Free Import of Grains,  
Flour and Feed Products from Least -Developed Countries (LDCs) and Low -Income Countries  
(LICs)  with less than 75 Million Inhabitants  ................................ ................................ ............  4 
2. ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES  ................................ ................................ ...............................  5 
3. MEDICINAL PRODUCTS  ................................ ................................ ................................  7 
4. FIREARMS, FIREARM COMPONENTS AND AMMUNITION ................................ ...............  8 
5. EXPLOSIVE SUBSTANCES INCLUDING PYROTECHNICAL ARTICLES  ............................  10 
6. ENDANGERED SPECIES ................................ ................................ ...............................  13 
7. POWERFUL LASER POINTERS  ................................ ................................ .....................  15 
8. RADIOACTIVE SOURCES  ................................ ................................ .............................  17 
9. SOLARIUMS FOR COSMETIC PURPOSES  ................................ ................................ ..... 19 
10. TOBACCO PRODUCTS AND EQUIPMENT FOR TOBACCO PRODUCTION  .......................  21 
 
  
 
1 See document G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.  G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
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  1. AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS  
Outline of system  
1. There are two automatic licensing systems present in Norway. This includes a licence for  certain 
products which might be used as feed in domestic animal production (see A below). This is  introduced 
as part of the comprehensive price and market system in the grain and feeding stuff sector.  
 
There is also (see B below) an automatic licensing of certain agricultural products that are  substitutes 
to domestically produced grains, and are imported both duty -free and out of quota, from  least-
developed countries (LDCs) and low -income countries (LICs) with less  than 75 million inhabitants). 
This system aims at insuring that import from these countries will not  cause serious market 
disturbances in the domestic market. If the expected import volumes of grain  and feed -products 
reach a level where the volumes threaten to cause market  disturbances, a safeguard mechanism 
might be brought into force. Another rationale behind this  system is to give priority to imports from 
the poorest developing countries.  
 
A. Import Licenc e for Certain Products which Might be Used as Feeding Stuff in Domestic 
Animal Production  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. This licence is required for all importers, and a licence is issued to all importers who have  handed 
in an end -use statement to the Norwegian Agriculture Agency. (The Norwegian  Agriculture Agency 
is administratively under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food and has been delegated the entire 
responsibility of administering the import regime for agricultural products.) The end -use statement 
shall confirm that the products covered will not be used as feeding stuff in domestic animal 
production. The products covered by this regulation were listed in Annex 1 to Norway's 2008 
notification. The system is introduced as part of the comprehe nsive price and market system for 
grains, meals and feeding stuff in Norway. The purpose is to secure that products suitable for use 
as feeding stuff are not imported under cover of another end -use, and therefore withheld from the 
tariffs applicable for fe eding stuff products. In the Uruguay Round, the tariff equivalents of the former 
quantitative import restrictions on feeding stuff (the State monopoly for importation of feeding stuff) 
were calculated. This resulted in a system of dual tariffs on certain p roducts so that higher tariffs 
are levied on products meant for use in animal production, and lower tariffs in case of other uses.  
 
3. The system has a global application.  
 
4. Imports are not regulated on a quantitative basis. The purpose is described under the reply to  
Question 2.  
 
5. Regulation No. 556 of 9 June 1995 on import licences for certain products which can  be used for 
animal feeding is introduced pursuant to the Act  No.32  of 6 June 1997 , concerning  import - and 
export -regulations. T his Act may not be abolished without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no restrictions as to the quantity or value of imports.  
 
I.  Information on imports is given in the form of public announcements. The Agriculture  Agency 
also sends informat ion on changes in tariffs and related matters to enterprises and  others who 
have asked to be put on an e -mailing list. Information is also provided on request.  
 
II.  It is not a quantitative measure.  
 
III.  Import licences apply to the applicant.  
 
IV.  N/A. 
 
V.  The normal processing time is one week.  
 
VI.  The licence is valid from the date the application is received.  G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
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  VII.  The Agriculture Agency has been delegated the entire responsibility of administering the  
import regime for agricultural products, including the issuing of licences. This body is under  
the Ministry of Agriculture and Food.  
 
VIII.  N/A. 
 
IX.  There are no special arrangements for products subject to export licensing in the exporting  
country.  
 
X.  N/A. 
 
XI.  This is not an arrangement under which import licences are issued on condition that the goods  
should be re -exported.  
 
7. Under the system there is no quantitative limit on importation of a product or from a  particular 
country.  
 
(a)  Licence is automatically issued to all  importers who have handed in an end -use statement.  
The end -use statement must be submitted to the Norwegian Agriculture Agency before  import 
licence is granted.  
 
(b)  Import applications must be written. The application will be handled without unnecessary  
delay.  
 
(c)  Applications for licences are not limited to any particular time of year.  
 
(d)  The Norwegian Agriculture Agency issues the licence.  
 
8. If the applications meet the criteria, a licence is granted.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a lic ence  
9. All applications are granted irrespective of the firm which makes the application.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in the application: Name and address of applicant, item  
number according to the Norwegian customs tariff, description of goods, end -use statement, country  
of origin, and other relevant information (such as date, signature, telephone number, reference).  
 
11. At the actual time of importation, the original invoi ce must be presented along with a plant  
disease certificate and/or a veterinary certificated where this is required.  
 
12. There are no charged levies or other licensing fees.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required for licensing.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The end -use statement required for the issuing of import licences is time -limited, and a new  
statement must be handed in after the expiry date.  
 
15. There is no penalty on licences which have not been used or on licences which h ave only  been 
used partially.  
 
16. Licences cannot be transferred between importers.  
 
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuing of licences except the  above -mentioned.  
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  Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative pro cedures required prior to importation apart from  veterinary, 
phytosanitary and quality regulations.  
 
19. Foreign exchange is automatically provided.  
 
B. Security Mechanism and Surveillance System for Duty - and Quota -Free Import of 
Grains, Flour and Feed Pr oducts from Least -Developed Countries ( LDCs ) and Low-Income 
Countries ( LICs) with less than 75 Million Inhabitants  
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. This automatic licensing system covers imports of grains, flour and feed products from the  least-
developed countries (LDCs) and low -income countries (LICs) with less than 75 million  inhabitants. 
The products covered by this regulation were listed in Ann ex 2 to Norway's 2008  notification.  
 
3. The licensing system for grains, flour and feed products  originating in LDCs and LICs with  less 
than 75 million inhabitants applies only to products originating in these countries.  
 
4. The intention of the system is,  as described under the outline of the system, to prevent serious  
market disturbances. In case of an expected serious market disturbance caused by a major increase 
in import of grains, flour or feed -products from LDCs and LICs with less than 75 million inh abitants, 
the duty- and quota -free import of such products from these countries might be suspended.  
 
5. Regulations pursuant to the introductory provisions to the customs tariff lay down provisions  for 
the security mechanism and surveillance system for dut y- and quota -free import of grains, flour  and 
feed products from least -developed countries (LDCs) and low -income countries with less than  
75 million inhabitants. The General System of Preferences is adopted by the Parliament (Stortinget).  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no quantity or value restrictions, as the licence is issued at the volume applied for,  as 
long as the security mechanism is not activated.  
 
7.(a)  The licences are given for the following periods: 1 August –7 November, 8 November –24 April 
and 25 April–31 July. The application must be made at least 10 days before the  period starts.  
 
(b)  See 7(a).  
 
(c)  See 7(a).  
 
(d)  The application is considered by the Norwegian Agriculture Agency.  
 
8. N/A.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All p ersons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for licences as long as they are  registered 
in the Register of Business Enterprises in Norway.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is require d in the application: Name and address of applicant, item  
number according to the Norwegian customs tariff, description of goods, expected import date,  
country of origin, and other relevant information (such as date, signature, telephone number,  
reference) . In addition, the Agriculture Agency might require a contract (or a confirmation) as to  
ensure that the import materializes.  
 
11. At the actual time of importation, the original invoice must be presented along with a plant  
disease certificate and/or a vet erinary certificated where this is required.  
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  12. There are no charged levies or other licensing fees.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required for licensing.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The licences are given for the following periods: 1 August – 7 November, 8 November -24 April 
and 25 April–31 July.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization of a licence or a portion of a licence.  
 
16. The licence is not transferable.  
 
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issue of a licence except as described in replies  
two to nineteen.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation apart from  veterinary, 
phytosanit ary and quality regulations.  
 
19. Foreign exchange is automatically provided.  
 
2. ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES  
Outline of system  
1. Alcoholic beverages may only be imported by parties who hold an import licence, an extended 
retail licence or a serving licence exten ded to cover imports. Alcoholic beverages may also be 
imported by Vinmonopolet. Private persons may, for their personal use, import alcoholic beverages 
without a licence. This is regulated by Act No. 27 on the Sale of Alcoholic Beverages (Alcohol Act)  of 
2 June 1989 . 
 
When a private person imports alcoholic beverages the Directorate of Health and the Customs  and 
Excise Authorities may require documentation that the alcoholic beverage is for personal use, if  the 
quantity, or other circumstances, give reason to believe that it is not. If such documentation cannot  
be submitted, the goods cannot be imported without authorization or licence mentioned above. 
This is regulated by Regulation No. 538 on the Sale of Alcoholic Beverages (Alcohol  Regulation)  of 
8 June 2 005. 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Alcoholic beverages covered by the import provisions in the Alcoholic Act are beverages containing 
more than 2.5% alcohol by volume. Alcoholic beverages containing more than 60% alcohol by 
volume can only be impo rted by undertakings holding an import licence in Norway (to be used in 
production).  
 
The types of licensing systems that gives the right to import alcoholic beverages:  
 
Trading activity  
 
(a)  Import licence in Norway.  
 
(b)  An extended retail licence in N orway.  
 
(c)  A serving licence extended to cover imports in Norway.  
 
(d)  Imports by Vinmonopolet.  
 
Private imports for personal use require no licensing, but documentation that the alcoholic  beverage 
is for personal use may be required.  
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  3. The systems apply to alcoholic beverages from all countries.  
 
4. The purpose is to curb the harm to the society and the individual that may result from the  
consumption of alcoholic beverages.  
 
5. Trading activities under letters (a) –(e) in answer 2 are regulat ed by Act No. 27 on the Sale of 
Alcoholic Beverages (Alcohol Act)  of 2 June 1989 , Chapter 2. Authori zation to engage in wholesaling  
is also regulated by Regulation No. 1451 of 11 December 2001 on special duties.  Private imports for 
personal use are regulat ed by Regulation No. 538 of 8 June 2005 on the  Sale of Alcoholic Beverages 
(Alcohol Regulation), Chapter 15, § 2 -1, paragraph 3.  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no restrictions regarding quantities or value of alcoholic beverages imported to  Norway. 
However, authori zation/licence to import is required if the alcoholic beverage is not for  personal use, 
cf. answer to question 1.  
 
7.(a)  Applications for authori zation to be engaged in wholesaling one month in advance.  
 
(b)  Import licence is not required  as long as the alcoholic beverage is for personal use.  
 
(c)  No. 
 
(d)  To obtain an authori zation to be engaged in wholesaling, approaches have to be made to the  
Tax Assessment Office.  
 
8. None. The applicant may appeal in accordance with Act on Tax Admi nistration  of 27 May 2016 .  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons over 18 years old (over 20 years old for alcoholic beverages containing more than  
22% alcohol by volume) are eligible to import alcoholic beverages for personal use.  To be authori zed 
to engage in wholesaling you must be a registered firm (at your current  Tax Assessment Office) of 
good repute in relation to several acts. There is no registration fee.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. To be authori zed to engage in wholesaling you have to provide the information required by the 
Tax Authorities in the form used for registration, on basis of the Act on Tax Administration Section 
8-15 (2)  of 27 May 2016 , including information about the stock, the warehouse, the account routines 
and turnovers.  
 
11. When wholesalers import the registration number must follow the imported goods.  
 
12. No administrative charges.  
 
13. No deposit required;  however,  Section 14 -21 second paragraph of the Tax Paym ent Act  provides 
that, at the time of registration or later, the Tax Assessment Office may require the undertaking to  
furnish security for excise duties that the entity becomes liable for in the future.  
 
Condition of licensing  
14. There is no validity peri od for the registration as liable for excise duties (wholesalers).  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization.  
 
16. The licence is not transferable.  
 
17. There are no other conditions.  
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  Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No  
 
19. N/A  
 
3. MEDICINAL PRODUCTS  
Outline of system  
1. A licence is necessary for companies who want to import medicinal products for (whole)sale.  
Personal imports from outside the EU/EEA -area are prohibited. However, the Norwegian  Medicines 
Agency can permit an exception under special ci rcumstances. In these cases,  a licence is  necessary. 
An import licence has to be applied for. In practice such licences are given when a  shipment is 
stopped by the Customs, not in advance.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing systems are the  two mentioned above. The products covered are all medicinal  
products.  
 
3. Companies' imports: from all countries inside EU/EEA -area an import license is necessary.  From 
countries outside this area a manufacturing –licence is necessary. Imports of medicinal product  not 
intended for medical use can be imported from all countries. Personal imports: a licence after  
exception is needed from countries outside EU/EEA -area. 
 
4. The overall purpose of the licensing system is to ensure that medicines sold on  the Norwegian  
market have good quality, are effective and safe to use.  
 
5. Medicinal Product Act No. 132 of 4 December 1992,  §12 and §13, Regulation No. 1219 of 
21 December 1993  regarding wholesaling, Regulation  No. 1441 of 2 November 2004 regarding 
produ ction and imports of  medicinal products. The notion of a medicinal product is defined by the 
above regulation. A  legislative approval is necessary to abolish the system.  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no such restrictions.  
 
7.(a)  Applications from companies sha ll be handled within 90 days, but there is usually a much  
shorter time -limit. The 90 -days deadline follows from the EU Directive 2001/83/EC, Art.78, 
which i s incorporated into the Wholesale Regulation No. 2. Goods arriving at the port without 
licence can u nder special circumstances be imported for the one case if it later will be given 
an import licence.  
 
Applications from persons will be handled within one or a few days.  
 
(b)  Usually not, see 7(a).  
 
(c)  No. 
 
(d)  No, the licence is given by the Norwegian  Medicines Agency. The Customs control the  imports.  
 
8. If the company is not registered in Norway, the application will be refused. The reason for a  
refusal will be given to the applicant. It is possible to appeal the decision to the Ministry of Health 
and Care Services under an administrative procedure. The applicant may also refer the matter to a 
court of  law. 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Everyone, both companies and individuals, are eligible to apply for an import licence.  Companies  
have to be registered in Norway. There is no registration fee. The Norwegian Medicines  Agency G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
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  publishes a list containing the companies which have an import licence, see 
https://legemiddelverket.no/english/import -wholesaling -and-retailing . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. An application form is submitted at request. The company has to fill in the application form  and 
eventually give additional information, if required.  
 
11. The importer has to present the import licence to the Customs.  
 
12. No.  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions of l icensing  
14. Normally the validity of a licence is five years. In certain cases,  the period can be shorter. The  
period of validity may be extended after an application for extension.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.  
 
17. No.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No  
 
19. N/A  
 
4. FIREARMS, FIREARM COMPONENTS AND AMMUNITION  
Outline of system  
1. Act No. 1 relating to firearms and ammunition etc.  of 9 June 1961  and Regulation No. 904 on 
Firearms, Firearm Components and Ammunition 25 June 2009  require a permit granted by the  Chief 
of Police for commercial and non -commercial imports of firearms, firearm components and  
ammunition (not covered by Act No. 39 relating to Explosive Goods of 14 June 1974 (applies only 
to Svalbard) or the Fire and Explosion Prevention Act).  
 
Commercial imp orts of ammunition from a member state covered by the EEA Agreement  may only 
occur pursuant to Directive 93/15/EEC of 5 April 1993 on the harmonization of the  provisions relating 
to the placing on the market and supervision of explosives for civil uses.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. Civil permits for commercial and non -commercial imports of firearms, firearm components 
(barrels, receivers, frames) and ammunition.   
 
3. The system regarding import licensing of firearms, firearm components and ammuni tion regulates 
imports from all countries.  
 
4. The purpose of the permit is to ensure that only suitable persons import firearms, firearm  
components and ammunition.  
 
5. Act No. 1 relating to firearms and ammunition etc. of 9 June 1961  and Regulation No. 90 4 on 
Firearms, Firearm Components and Ammunition  of 25 June 2009 . The permit is statutorily required.  
It is not possible for the government or the executive branch to abolish the system without legislative  
approval.  
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  Procedure  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a)  A person needs a permit granted by the Police for commercial and non -commercial imports of  
firearms, firearm components and ammunition before importation.  
 
(b)  No. 
 
(c)  No. 
 
(d)  Yes, the Chief of Police.  
 
8. Police supervision of applications for  commercial import permits:  
 
In addition to check that a person who seeks an import permit is licensed to trade in firearms,  
firearm components and ammunition, and that the application meets the requisite formalities, the  
police evaluates whether the type and number of weapons the application concerns are defensible  
from policing, security and social points of view.  
 
The reasons for any refusal shall be given to the applicant.  
 
The applicant has a right to appeal to the National Police Directorate. The procedures are  pursuant 
to Norwegian administrative law.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Everyone is eligible to apply for a permit. A permit for commercial import will normally only be 
given to licenced firearms dealers or manufacturers.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The application for commercial imports of firearms, firearm components or ammunition and  
non-commercial imports of ammunition must contain information on:  
 
-  the app licant's (the firm's) full name and address;  
-  the number, nature or type, trademark, name of model, mechanism (type) and calibre, barrel 
length and firearms total length, for imports of firearms/firearm components;  
-  the quantity and weight, for imports  of ammunition;  
-  the name and address of the supplier;  
-  whether the consignment is expected to arrive in several consignments; and  
-  who has granted the applicant a permit to conduct trade in firearms etc.  
 
The importer must also supply a copy of the document showing the purchase price.  
 
The application for non -commercial imports of firearms, firearm components or ammunition  must 
contain information on:  
 
-  the applicant's full name and address, date of birth and birthplace, and job or profession;  
-  mechanism (type) and calibre of firearms/firearm components;  
-  the applicant's potential use of the weapon; and  
-  the applicant's firearms permit, if he has one.  
 
11. A permission granted by the Chief of Police.  
 
12. The fee for commercial imports of fire arms, firearm components or ammunition is one per  cent 
of the value, but minimum NOK 125 and maximum NOK 6 ,150 (the court fee multiplied by six).  
The fee for non -commercial imports of firearms, firearm components or ammunition is minimum  
NOK 512 and maximum NOK 1 ,025. 
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  13. For commercial imports of firearms, firearm components and ammunition the importer ha s to 
pay the fee either when an application is made or within 14 days after a permission is granted. There 
is no specific requirement to pay in adv ance or to deposit money for acquiring a licence.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The permit for commercial imports of firearms, firearm components or ammunition is valid  for a 
period of three months. It may on application be extended for a further three mont hs. The permit 
for non -commercial imports of firearms, firearm components or ammunition is  valid for a period of 
six months. It may on application be extended for  a further six months.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. Transfer of an import permit is prohibited.  
 
17. No.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No.  
 
19. N/A.  
 
5. EXPLOSIVE SUBSTANCES INCLUDING PYROTECHNICAL ARTICLES  
Outline of system  
1. Import of explosive substances, including pyrotechnical articles, requires an import license. 
The products are mainly listed in Norw egian customs tariff, Chapter 36 (HS 36.01 -36.04) but not 
restricted to.  
 
Explosives produced in conformity with international agreements are only subject to transfer 
approval.  
 
Both import license and transfer approval are regulated by Act No. 20 on the  Prevention of Fire, 
Explosion and Accidents involving Hazardous Substances of 14 June 2002  and the Fire Services' 
duties in Rescue Operations. In detail, pyrotechnical articles are regulated by the Regulation No. 922 
on handling Explosive Substances of 26 June 2002  and Regulation No. 1199 on Pyrotechnical Articles  
of 3 October 2013 . 
 
Explosives substances are regulated in the Regulation No. 844 on Civil Handling of Explosives 
Substances  of 15 June 2017 . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Explosives covered by Directive 2014/28/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on 
the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market 
and supervision of explosives for civil uses  of 26 February 2014 , Explosives for civil uses | Internal 
Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (europa.eu)  transferred from a country within the EE A 
is regulated by the Regulation on Civil handling Explosive Substances Chapter 4, and according to 
Article 29 requires a transfer approval.  
 
Imports of explosives, ammunition for technical use from a country outside of the EEA is subject to 
import authorization, cf. Regulation on Civil handling Explosive Substances Article 31.  
 
Explosives covered by the Regulation on Civil handling Explosive Substances are the materials and 
articles considered to be explosives in the United Nations recommendations o n the transport of 
dangerous goods and falling within Class 1 of those recommendations.  
 
Pyrotechnical articles covered by Directive 2007/23/EU of the European Parliament and of the 
Council  on the placing on the market of pyrotechnic articles  of 23 May 20 07, Pyrotechnic articles | G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
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  Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (europa.eu)  transferred from a country within 
the EEA is regulated by the Regulation No. 922 on handling Explosive Substances  of 26 June 2002 , 
Chapter 5, and according to Article 5 -1 requires a transfer approval.  
 
Import of pyrotechnical articles from a country outside of the EEA is subject to import authoriz ation; 
cf. Regulation on handling Explosive Substances, Chapter 5, Article 5 -1. 
 
Pyrotechnic articles are categorised as follows:  
 
Fireworks:  
 
Category 1:  fireworks which present a very low hazard and negligible noise level,  and which 
are intended for use  in confined areas, including fireworks which are intended for 
use inside domestic buildings;  
 
Category 2:  fireworks which present a low hazard and low noise level,  and which are intended 
for outdoor use in confined areas;  
 
Category 3:  fireworks which pr esent a medium hazard, which are intended for outdoor use in 
large open areas and whose noise level is not harmful to human health;  
 
Category 4:  fireworks which present a high hazard which are intended for use only by persons
with specialist knowledge (co mmonly known as fireworks for professional use)
and whose noise level is not harmful to human health.  
 
Theatrical pyrotechnic articles:  
 
Category T1:  pyrotechnic articles for stage use which present a low hazard;  
 
Category T2:  pyrotechnic articles for stage use which are intended for use only by persons with 
specialist knowledge.  
 
Other pyrotechnic articles:  
 
Category P1:  pyrotechnic articles other t han fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, which
  present a low hazard;  
 
Category P2:  pyrotechnic articles other than fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles which 
  are intended for handling or use only by persons with specialist knowledge.  
 
3. The import licensing system applies to explosives coming from countries outside the EEA, and 
pyrotechnic articles from all countries. The system with transfer approval applies to explosives, but 
not to pyrotechnical articles, coming from countries wit hin the EEA.  
 
4. The purpose of the import licensing procedure is to ensure public safety and security, and not to 
restrict the quantity or value of imports.  
 
5. See point no. 1 on under which law and regulation the licensing is maintained.  
 
The above -mentioned licensing is statutorily required, and it is not possible for the government to 
abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Designation of products to be subject to licensing is not left to administrative discretion but  follows 
directly from th e law. For certain reasons, exemption may be given for provisions in the  Regulation 
on handling Explosive Substances, provided there is no conflict with international agreements 
entered into by Norway, cf. Article 17 -3. 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable (No qu antity or value restrictions).  
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  7.(a)  Application for a license must be made in time for the license to be granted before actual 
importation. The treatment of applications for import licenses are normally done within one to 
two weeks. As an exception, a license may be obtained within a shorter frequency, provided 
that all the general conditions, i.e. documentation, are complied with, and the necessary 
administrative resources are available.  
 
(b)  No. 
 
(c)  No. 
 
(d)  Applications for an import license are considered only by a single administrative organ, the  
Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning. Appeals, on the other hand, are 
passed on to a higher administrative organ.  
 
8. There are no circumstances for an application to be refused other than failure to meet the general 
provisions. The reasons for a refusal are communicated to the applicant. Applicants have a right of 
appeal in the event of refusal to issue a license. Appeals are passed on to a higher administrative 
organ, the Ministry of Justice and Public Security. Appeals are sent to the first instance for a 
preliminary assessment and  are then passed on to the higher instance for final judgement.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for license  
9. Only firms registered as an Explosives company may be granted an import license. Companies 
are registered in the National register of business enterprises; "Brønnøysund registeret".  There is a 
registration fee. There is not a published list of authorized importers. The Regulati on on handling 
Explosive Substances Article 5 -3 requires importer course for companies that import fireworks in 
class II, III, and IV, and theatrical pyrotechnics.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for license  
10. Sample form was made a vailable, as part of Norway's 2008 notification.  The importer is also 
required to attach to the application the following information:  
 
-  Documentation on storage;  
-  Documentation on area for destruction;  
-  Documentation test area for initial inspection  (applies only to pyrotechnical articles).  
 
11. The import license/transfer approval.  
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge for imports, only value added tax.  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import authorization is valid for maximum three years, but only until the granted amount of  
explosives actually is imported. The validity of a license is not extended.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.  
 
17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No.  
 
19. N/A.  
 
  G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 13 - 
 
  6. ENDANGERED SPECIES  
Outline of system  
1. By virtue of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and  Flora 
(CITES), of which Norway is a member, import of such species that are covered by the  Convention 
are subject to licensing.  CITES aims to ensure that no species are threatened with  extinction as a 
result of non -sustainable international trade. Species covered by the Convention are  listed in 
Appendices I, II or III, according to how threatened each species are by international trade.  Relevant 
for the purpose of this questionnaire are import of species listed under Appendix I and II of the 
Convention, as import of such species into Norway require an import licence issued by the Norwegian 
Environment Agency, in addition to an expo rt permit issued by the CITES authority in the state of 
exportation.  
 
The CITES convention is implemented in the Norwegian legal system through Regulation on the 
import, export, re -export and transfer or possession of threatened species of wild flora and f auna 
(Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, CITES) of 15 June 2018 No. 889, with 
statutory authority by  
 
Law No. 79 of 15 June 2001  § 26 (2) (Svalbard Environmental Act, see 
http://lovdata.no/cgiwift/wiftldles?doc=/app/gratis/www/docroot/all/nl -20010615 -
079.html&emne=svalbardmilj%F8*&& )   
 
Law No.  2 of 27 February 1930  § 2 (Act relating to Jan Mayen, see 
http://lovdata.no/cgiwift/wiftldles?doc=/app/gratis/www/docroot/all/nl -19300227 -
002.html&emne=jan*%20%2b%20mayen*&& ;  
 
Law No. 100 of 19 June 2009 § 2 and § 26 (Nature Diversity Act, see 
https://lovdata.no/dokument/NL/lov/2009 -06-19-100/KAPITTEL_3#%C2%A726 );  
 
Delegation of authority of Regulation No. 889 of 15 June 2018  § 31 regarding adjustments of 
Appendices I, II and III to the Norwegian Environmental Agency.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The Convention establishes a system for cooperation between all State parties to the  Convention 
with regards to all import, export, re -export and introdu ction from the sea of species  covered by the 
Convention to be authorized through a licensing system. Products included in the  licensing system 
are the species (and their by -products) listed in one of the three Appendices. The  purpose of this 
coverage is:  
 
(a)  To place a strict limitation on trade in wild specimens and by -products of species classified as  
endangered, cf. Appendix I;  
 
(b)  To establish a system of monitoring of specimens and by -products susceptible to becoming  
endangered through a licensing mechanism, cf. Appendices I and II;  
 
(c)  To allow individual countries to exercise surveillance on importation in other countries  
specimens and by -products of species which are considered endangered by the exporting  
country only, cf. Appendix III.  
 
3. The  system applies to endangered species originating in and exported from all countries.  
 
4. Se e point 1 above. The licensing system allows importation in endangered species and their  
by-products in internationally agreed circumstances.  
 
5. See point 1 above law and administrative order under which the licensing is maintained.  
Endangered species are placed in Appendices I, II and III. It is not possible either to make the 
regime  more flexible or to modify the legal bas is. 
 G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 14 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable (i .e. no quantitative restrictions).  
 
7.(a)  An individual import permit is normally granted after a review period of 1 -4 weeks provided  
the criteria for issuing a permit are met. Therefore,  it is recommended that an application is  
submitted giving the CITES  authorities reasonable time before the expected date of  
importation to review the application. Import licences are usually not granted retrospectively.  
 
(b) See point 7 (a) above.  
 
(c)  N/A. 
 
(d)  Permit applications are processed by the Norwegian Environm ent Agency, which is the single 
administrative organ that the applicant needs to contact.  
 
8. An applicant for a licence may only be refused when the application fails to meet the ordinary  
criteria set out in the Convention. If the criteria have not been met, the applicant will be informed 
of the reasons for refusal. In such event, an appeal may be forwarded to the Ministry of Climate and 
Environment.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Citizenship and residency are not criteria.  
 
Docume ntational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The applicant is required to provide information about the specific specimen of the species  
requested for import such as the origin of the specimen and the purpose for the request of import.  
The application form is to be found at 
https://soknadssenter.miljodirektoratet.no/CitesSkjema/Startside/Index?s%C3%B8knadstypeId=3
5  
 
Documentat ion issued by the appropriate CITES authorities in the country of origin or in any  
subsequent re -exporting country authorizing export  must accompany all applications. A product  
arriving in Norway without a duly authentic CITES export permit will not be cle ared by Norway 
Customs and is subject to seizure.  
 
11. Documents required upon actual importation are both authentic CITES documents issued by  the 
appropriate CITES authorities in the country of origin or in any subsequent re -exporting country  
authorizing export, and authentic CITES documentation issued by the Norwegian Environment 
Agency  
 
12. No fees.  
 
13. N/A.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The validity of the CITES import permits is not subject to regulation.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.  
 
17. No.  
 
Other procedural re quirements  
18. No.  
 
19. N/A.  G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 15 - 
 
  7. POWERFUL LASER POINTERS  
Outline of system  
1. Norway has a non -automatic licence in place for powerful laser pointers. The Norwegian Radiation 
and Nuclear Safety Authority is the competent authority for granting licences. A licence is necessary 
to own, possess, manufacture, import, export, use or sell powerful laser pointers in Norway. Permits 
will be granted to those who have a legitimate need to use a powerful laser pointer.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. A licence is required for all importers of powerful laser pointers class 3R, 3B and 4. The permit 
may be granted for a given period of time.  
 
3. The system has a global application.  
 
4. Imports are not regulated on a quantitative basis. The objective of the licencing system is to 
prevent harmful and potentially dangerous use of laser pointers. The overall purpose is to ensure 
the proper use of radiation, prevent harmful effects of radiation on human health and contribute to 
the protection of the environme nt. 
 
5. The licencing system is mandated in the Norwegian Act on radiation protection Section 6, and 
further elaborated in the Norwegian Regulations on radiation protection Section 10.  
 
Act on Radiation Protection and Use of Radiation (No. 36 of 12 May 200 0): 
In Norwegian: https://lovdata.no/dokument/NL/lov/2000 -05-12-36?q=str%C3%A5levern   
In English: https://dsa.no/en/legislation     
 
Regulations on Radiation Protection and Use of Radiation (No. 1659 of 16 December 2016):  
In Norwegian: https://lovdata.no/dokument/SF/forskrift/2016 -12-16-1659?q=str%C3%A5levern   
In English: https://dsa.no/en/legislation   
 
The licencing system is thus statutorily required, and the designation of products to be subjected to 
licensing is not left to administrative disc retion. It is possible for the government to abolish the 
system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no restrictions as to the quantity or value of imports.  
 
7. Under the system there is no quantitative limit on importation of a product or from a  particular 
country.  
 
(a)  The processing time for an application is 30 days.  
 
(b)  Import applications must be written. The application will be handled without unnecessary  
delay.  
 
(c)  Applications for licences are not limited to any part icular time of year.  
 
(d)  The Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority issues the licence.  
 
8. If the applications meet the criteria, a licence is granted. An application may only be refused if it 
fails to meet the ordinary criteria. The reasons f or any refusal are given to the applicant in the 
decision. The decision of the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority may be appealed to 
the Ministry of Health and Care Services.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. All persons, fi rms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 16 - 
 
  Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in the application: Name and address of applicant, item  
number according to the Norwegian customs tariff, description of goods, end -use statement, country  
of origin, and other relevant information (such as date, signature, telephone number, reference).  
 
Authori zation is granted only when  
 
(a)  the applicant can document that the laser pointer is designed, classified and marked in  
compliance with requirements stated in Section 35 ; 
 
(b)  the applicant can document that the planned use of the laser pointer is justified  according to 
Section 5 ; and 
 
(c)  no reason to anticipate misuse of the laser pointer.  
 
Authori zations can be granted to undertakings and individual persons. An authori zation can involve 
several laser pointers and be time limited.  
 
In the authori zation, the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority may set further  
conditions to assure justified use of radiation and prevent against harmful effects of radiation on 
human health. This may include further conditions for the radiation use, registration, reporting, 
competence, training, security, use of measuring e quipment, maintenance routines, quality control 
of apparatus and equipment for radiation use, return schemes, financial guarantees, import, export, 
emergency preparedness and design of premises.  
 
The Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority may can cel, change or set new conditions in 
an authorization, and if necessary, withdraw an authorization if : 
 
(a)  conditions set, or orders made pursuant to the Radiation Protection Act are materially or 
repeatedly ignored ; or 
 
(b)  it follows from an authoriza tion issued under Sections 9 or 10 or the Public Administration  Act 
Section 35.  
 
11. At the actual time of importation, the Authority's decision to grant a licence should be presented 
to customs.  
 
12. There are no charged levies or other licensing fees.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required for licensing.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The licence may be time limited if the Authority so decides.  
 
15. There is no penalty on licences which have not been used or on licences which have only  
been used pa rtially.  
 
16. Licences cannot be transferred between importers.  
 
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuing of licences except the above -mentioned 
under question 10.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. N/A  
 
  G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 17 - 
 
  8. RADIOACTIVE SOURCES  
Outline of system  
1. The Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority is the competent authority for radioactive 
sources. The Norwegian Regulations on Radiation Protection and Use of Radiation give exemption 
levels for different radioactive isotopes. To import radioacti ve sources (including 
radiopharmaceuticals) with activities above these exemption levels you need an authorization ; either 
by licensing or registration. Authorization by registration is a simplified authorization which involves 
registering the source in an  electronic national source registry before import. Authorization by 
licensing involves an application process with review and assessment of relevant information. 
The license has an expiry date.   
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. A license is require d either based on the area of use of the radioactive source or based on how 
strong the source is. Examples of areas of use which require license are industrial radiography, 
logging operations, comprehensive research, administration of radiopharmaceuticals in humans and 
radiotherapy on humans. A license is required for all importers of strong radioactive sources, i.e. 
with activities greater than 2x106 of the exemption levels, and all radiopharmaceuticals above 
exemption level.  
 
3. The system has a global ap plication.  
 
4. The objective of the licensing system is to prevent harmful and potentially dangerous use of 
radioactive sources and to ensure the safe handling of disused radioactive sources. The overall 
purpose is to ensure the proper use of radiation, pr event harmful effects of radiation on human 
health and contribute to the protection of the environment.  
 
5. The authorization system is mandated in the Norwegian Act on Radiation Protection Section 6, 
and further elaborated in the Norwegian Regulations on Radiation Protection Sections 9 (license) 
and 13 (registration).  
 
Act on Radiation Protection and Use of Radiation (No. 36 of 12 May 2000) : 
In Norwegian: https://lovdata.no/ dokument/NL/lov/2000 -05-12-36?q=str%C3%A5levern ; and  
In English: https://dsa.no/en/legislation . 
 
Regulations on Radiation Protection and Use of Radiation (No. 1659 of 16 December 2016):  
In Norwegian: https://lovdata.no/dokument/SF/forskrift/2016 -12-16-1659?q=str%C3%A5levern ;  
In English: https://dsa.no/en/legislation . 
 
The authorization system is thus statutorily required, and the designation of products to be subjected 
to authorization is not left to administrative discretion. It is possible for the government to abolish 
the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no national restrictions as to the quantity or value of imports. However, the Norwegian 
Radiation and Nuclear Safety authority may specify restrictions on the activity or type of the sources 
to be imported to each licensee.  
 
7. Under the syst em there is no quantitative limit on importation of a product or from a  particular 
country.  
 
(a)  The processing time for an application is three weeks. For urgent matters, a license can be 
obtained within a shorter time -limit.  
 
(b)  Import applications m ust be written. The application will be handled without unnecessary  
delay.  
 
(c)  Applications for licenses are not limited to any particular time of year.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 18 - 
 
  (d)  The Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority issues the license.  
 
8. A license can be r efused if the applicant fails to demonstrate that the source will be used in a 
justified, optimized and safe manner. Reasons for any refusal are given to the applicant in the 
decision. The decision of the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority ma y be appealed to 
the Ministry of Health and Care Services.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for lice nce 
10. The applicant must document that the planned use of radiation is justified and optimized. What 
information that is required is dependent on the area of use of the source. We do not have English 
translations of the application forms. In any case the  company name, organization number and 
address must be submitted, and the applicant must provide information on their competence, 
instructions, procedures, safety and security assessments, safety equipment, source registry, 
emergency preparedness plan and system for management of disused sources.  
 
In the license, the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority may set further  conditions to 
assure justified use of radiation and prevent against harmful effects of radiation on human health. 
This may incl ude further conditions for the radiation use, registration, reporting, competence, 
training, security, use of measuring equipment, maintenance routines, quality control of apparatus 
and equipment for radiation use, return schemes, financial guarantees, imp ort, export, emergency 
preparedness and design of premises.  
 
The Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority may cancel, change or set new conditions in 
an authorization, and if necessary, withdraw an authorization if : 
 
(a)  the disadvantage of the radiation use proves to be significantly greater or different from what 
was expected when the authorization was granted ;  
 
(b)  the disadvantage of the radiation use can be reduced without unreasonable costs for the 
undertaking ; 
 
(c)  the radiation use can be significantly reduced or substituted; cf. Section 23 ; 
 
(d)  conditions set, or orders made pursuant to the Radiation Protection Act are materially or 
repeatedly ignored ; or 
 
(e)  it follows from an authorization issued under Sections 9 or 10 or the Public Administration  Act 
Section 35.  
 
11. At the actual time of importation, the documentation of the registration and/or license should 
be presented to customs.  
 
12. There are no charged levies or other licensing fees.  
 
13. No depos it or advance payment is required for licensing.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The license is usually valid for a period of one to ten years, depending on the activity of the 
source and the area of use. The license can be extended/renewed by application.  
 
15. There is no penalty on licenses which have not been used or on licenses which have only  
been used partially.  
 
16. Licenses cannot be transferred between importers.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 19 - 
 
  17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuing of licences except the above -mentioned 
under question 10.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. An authorization is required, not only for importing radioactive sources, but also for using the 
sources.  For the import and sale of radiopharmaceuticals, wholesale traders need a permission from 
the Norwegian Medicines Agency.  
 
19. N/A  
 
9. SOLARIUMS FOR COSMETIC PURPOSES  
Outline of system  
1. Norway has a non -automatic licence in place for solariums for cosmetic purposes. The Norwegian 
Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority is the c ompetent authority for granting licences. A licence is 
necessary to import or produce solariums for cosmetic purposes in Norway.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. A licence is required for all importers of solariums for cosmetic purposes. The permit may be 
granted for a given period of time.  
 
3. The system has a global application.  
 
4. Imports are not regulated on a quantitative basis. The objective of the licencing system is to make 
sure that the solariums imported to Norway are produced, measured, c lassified and marked in 
compliance with the harmonized European Standard EN 60335 -2-27 and fulfils the requirements to 
UV-type 3 solariums according to the standard. The overall purpose is to ensure the proper use of 
radiation, prevent harmful effects of r adiation on human health and contribute to the protection of 
the environment.  
 
5. The licencing system is mandated in the Norwegian Act on radiation protection Section 6, and 
further elaborated in the Norwegian Regulations on radiation protection Section 9 . 
 
Act on Radiation Protection and Use of Radiation (No. 36 of 12 May 2000) : 
In Norwegian: https://lovdata.no/dokument/NL/lov/2000 -05-12-36?q=str%C3%A5levern   
In English: https://dsa.no/en/legislation   
 
Regulations on Radiation Protection and Use of Radiation (No. 1659 of 16 December 2016):  
In Norwegian: https://lovdata.no/dokument/SF/forskrift/2016 -12-16-1659?q=str%C3%A5levern   
In English: https://dsa.no/en/legislation   
 
The licencing system is thus statutorily required, and the designation of products to be subjected to 
licensing is not left to administrative discretion. It is possible for the government to abolish the 
system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no restrictions as to the quantity or value of imports.  
 
7. Under the system there is no quantitative limit on importation of a product or from a  particular 
country.  
 
(a)  The processing time for an application is 30 days.  
 
(b) Import applications  must be written. The application will be handled without unnecessary  
delay.  
 
(c)  Applications for licences are not limited to any particular time of year.  G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 20 - 
 
  (d)  The Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority issues the licence.  
 
8. If the applicatio ns meet the criteria, a licence is granted. An application may only be refused if it 
fails to meet the ordinary criteria. The reasons for any refusal are given to the applicant in the 
decision. The decision of the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Aut hority may be appealed to 
the Ministry of Health and Care Services.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application  for licence  
10. The following information is required in the application: Name and address of applicant, item  
number according to the Norwegian customs tariff, description of goods, end -use statement, country  
of origin, and other relevant information (suc h as date, signature, telephone number, reference).  
 
Authori zation is granted only when the applicant can document that the solariums are produced, 
measured, classified and marked in compliance with requirements stated in Section 36.  
 
In the authori zation, the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority may set further  
conditions to assure justified use of radiation and prevent against harmful effects of radiation on 
human health. This may include further conditions for the radiation use, registration , reporting, 
competence, training, security, use of measuring equipment, maintenance routines, quality control 
of apparatus and equipment for radiation use, return schemes, financial guarantees, import, export, 
emergency preparedness and design of premises . 
 
The Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority may cancel, change or set new conditions in 
an authorization, and if necessary, withdraw an authorization if : 
 
(a)  conditions set, or orders made pursuant to the Radiation Protection Act are materially or 
repeatedly ignored ; or 
 
(b)  it follows from an authorization issued under Sections 9 or 10 or the Public Administration  Act 
Section 35.  
 
11. At the actual time of importation, the Authority's decision to grant a licence should be presented 
to customs.  
 
12. There are no charged levies or other licensing fees.  
 
13. No deposit or advance payment is required for licensing.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The licence may be time limited if the Authority so decides.  
 
15. There is no penalty on licenc es which have not been used or on licences which have only  been 
used partially.  
 
16. Licences cannot be transferred between importers.  
 
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuing of licences except the above -mentioned 
under question 10.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. N/A  
 G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 21 - 
 
  10. TOBACCO PRODUCTS AND EQUIPMENT FOR TOBACCO PRODUCTION  
Outline of system  
1. Norway has from 1 November 2020 a licencing system in place for import, export and 
manufacturing of tobacco products and equipment for tobacco production.  
 
Import, export and production of tobacco products and equipment for tobacco production is 
prohibited without a permit. Individuals may import tobacco prod ucts for personal use without a 
permit.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The licencing system covers all types of tobacco products and equipment for tobacco production.  
 
3. The system applies to all countries.  
 
4. The purpose is to limit the health d amage of tobacco use by ensuring that the sale of tobacco 
products takes place in accordance with the provisions of the Tobacco Control Act. The purpose is 
also to ensure an overview of the supply chain of tobacco products in order to avoid illicit trade.  
 
The Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products Article 6 obliges the parties to either 
prohibit the production, export and import of tobacco products and equipment for tobacco 
production, or to establish a licensing scheme for such activities . Norway has chosen to follow up 
this obligation by establishing a licensing scheme.  
 
5. The statutory authority for the licencing system is found in the Norwegian Tobacco Control Act 
No. 14 of 9 March 1973 , Section 8.  
 
In Norwegian: https://lovdata.no/lov/1973 -03-09-14 
 
The licencing system is further elaborated in Regulations No. 1446 on registration and licencing 
systems for tobacco products etc of 21 September 2017.  
 
In Norwegian: https://lovdata.no/dokument/SF/forskrift/2017 -09-21-1446?q=tobakk  
 
The licensing system is statutorily required. The legislation does not leave designation of products 
to be subjected to licensi ng to administrative discretion. It is not possible for the government (or 
the executive branch) to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. There are no restrictions as to the quantity or value of imports.  
 
7. There is no quantitative limit on importation of a product or on imports from a particular country.  
 
(a)  The processing time for an application is 30 days. Licenses cannot be obtained within a shorter 
time-limit or for goods arriving at the port without a license.  
 
(b)  A license cannot be granted immediately on request.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for license and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d)  The consideration of license applications are effected by the Nor wegian Directorate of Health. 
The application must not be passed on to other organs for visa, note or approval. The importer 
does not have to approach more than one administrative organ.  
 
8. If the applications meet the criteria, a licence is granted. An a pplication may only be refused if it 
fails to meet the ordinary criteria. The reasons for any refusal are given to the applicant in the 
decision. The decision of the Norwegian Directorate of Health may be appealed to the Ministry of G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 22 - 
 
  Health and Care Service s according to Section 28 of the Public Administration Act: 
https://lovdata.no/NLE/lov/1967 -02-10/§28  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are elig ible to apply for an import licence.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in the application:  
 
(a) The company's name, organization number, address and contact information as well as 
information about any subcontractors ; 
 
(b) Information on the type of permit applied for ; 
 
(c) Overview of accounts used in transaction purposes ; 
 
(d) Information on persons with significant influence over the business ; 
 
(e) Documentation of who owns the business applying for a license ; 
 
(f) Overview of tobacco products and tobacco equipment covered by the permit application, 
including product groups, pr oduct description, name, any registered trademark, design, make, 
model or make and serial number of the production equipment ; 
 
(g) Description of how the tobacco products are intended to be used and in which market it is 
intended to be traded in, and an ac count of the supply is in proportion to the demand that can 
reasonably be expected ; 
 
(h) Plan for internal control system, including routines for proper flow of goods and storage, and 
possibly documentation of insurance and physical security of inventory a nd production 
premises ; 
 
(i) Access documents and floor plans of the company's premises ; 
 
(j) Extended and exhaustive police certificate . 
 
The Norwegian Directorate of Health may also require the applicant to submit:  
 
(a) Company certificate, possibly foun dation documentation ; 
 
(b) Bank statements from accounts used for transaction purposes ; 
 
(c) Financing plan and operating and liquidity budget . 
 
The application form can be found here: Altinn - Søknad om bevilling for innførsel, utførsel og 
produksjon av tobakksvarer . 
 
11. No documents are required upon actual importation as all licenses are registered in a public 
register.  
 
12. There is an administrative charge (application fee) of NOK 15 ,000 that must be paid by the 
applicant.  
 
13. The application fee covers administration costs related to the request for importation. 
The application fee is non-refundable and must be paid when the application is submitted.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. There is no limit on the period of validity of a licence.  G/LIC/N/3/NOR/10  
 
- 23 - 
 
  15. There is no penalty on licences which have not been used or on licences which have only  been 
used partially.  
 
16. Licences cannot be transferred between importers.  
 
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuing of licences.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures required prior to importation.  
 
19. Fo reign exchange is automatically provided.  
 
__________