⚠️ This guide was researched and updated in May 2026. Laws and regulations change frequently. For specific legal advice regarding your jurisdiction, please consult with local legal counsel.

Norway Will & Estate Planning Guide

Read about will creation and estate planning in Norway. This guide covers witness rules, probate processes and jurisdiction-specific considerations that may apply. Rules vary, so consult a qualified professional for advice on your circumstances.

Estate Planning in Norway at a Glance

Norway follows civil law with forced heirship (särkullbarn) protecting children. Children are entitled to 2/3 of the estate as minimum inheritance. Surviving spouse has strong rights including right to minimum NOK 4G (4x base amount) and marital home. Norway abolished inheritance tax in 2014 but wealth tax may apply.

No inheritance tax since 2014
Forced heirship: children get 2/3 minimum
Surviving spouse gets minimum 4G (≈NOK 470,000)
Spouse can retain marital home
Holographic wills are valid
Cohabitants (samboer) have limited rights
Public or private probate options

Will Requirements in Norway

Creating a will in Norway typically involves national rules and any local variations. Witness requirements, signing procedures and other formalities can vary by jurisdiction, so consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

Witness Requirements: 2 witnesses present together, must be 18+, cannot be beneficiaries or related to them

Holographic Wills:Handwritten wills may be recognised

Inheritance Tax in Norway

Norway does not currently impose an inheritance tax

Family Shares and Estate Administration in Norway

Protected family shares: Children entitled to 2/3 of estate (särkullbarn). Cannot be disinherited completely. Surviving spouse gets minimum 4G plus right to retain home and household goods.

Related Resources

What Happens Without a Will?

Read about intestacy rules and how an estate may be distributed if you die without a will.

Global Inheritance Tax Guide

Compare inheritance tax rates, thresholds and exemptions across countries.

Digital & Physical Will Signatures

How signing rules differ across jurisdictions and where digital signatures may be accepted.

Estate Planning Information for Norway

This guide is for information only. We don’t yet have coverage for Norway. Register your interest below and we’ll let you know when coverage becomes available, or find a qualified professional for advice on your circumstances.

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