Capital Gains in Norway: When Are They Taxable, and at What Rate?

If you’ve sold shares, real estate, or other capital assets in Norway, understanding how capital gains are taxed is crucial. The Norwegian tax system treats capital gains differently depending on the type of asset, holding period, and ownership structure. In this detailed guide, we explore when capital gains are taxable in Norway and the applicable tax rates for 2025 and beyond.

📌 What Are Capital Gains?

A capital gain occurs when you sell an asset for more than you paid. In Norway, taxable assets include:

• 📈 Shares and securities
• 🏠 Real estate properties not used as your primary residence
• 💼 Business assets and intellectual property
• 🌐 Digital assets and cryptocurrencies

✅ When Are Capital Gains Taxable in Norway?

Capital gains become taxable in the year the sale is finalized. Here’s when tax applies:

• Shares & Funds: Taxed when sold at a profit unless sheltered by a share savings account (ASK).
• Rental or Second Homes: Taxable unless you meet ownership and usage exemptions (more below).
• Cryptocurrencies: All profits are taxable, regardless of amount or platform.
• Assets Held Abroad: Taxable if you’re considered a Norwegian tax resident.

💰 Capital Gains Tax Rates in 2025

Capital gains are taxed as general income, which in 2025 is subject to a flat rate of 22%. However, gains on shares and equities may be adjusted by an upward multiplier (justeringsfaktor) before applying the tax.

For example:

• Sale profit: NOK 100,000
• Justering factor: 1.72
• Taxable base: NOK 172,000
• 22% tax on NOK 172,000 = NOK 37,840 tax due

🏡 Real Estate Exemption Rules

You may be exempt from paying capital gains tax on property if:

• You owned the property for at least 1 year
• You lived there continuously for at least 12 of the last 24 months before the sale

Otherwise, the capital gain on property is fully taxable at 22% under the general income regime.

📊 Reporting Capital Gains in Your Tax Return

Capital gains must be reported on your annual tax return (skattemelding). You’ll typically report:

• Date of purchase and sale
• Purchase price and sales price
• Transaction fees (which may reduce gains)
• Adjusted taxable amount based on the gain type

📎 What If You Don’t Report?

Failing to report taxable capital gains can lead to:

• ⚠️ Additional taxes (up to 30% penalty)
• 🔍 Increased audit risk
• ❌ Loss of exemption or deduction eligibility

Always keep thorough documentation and consider consulting a tax expert for complex cases.

🧠 Pro Tips to Reduce Capital Gains Tax in Norway

• Use an ASK (Aksjesparekonto) to defer tax on share gains.
• Offset gains with prior capital losses declared in earlier years.
• Time the sale of real estate to benefit from the ownership and use exemption.
• Review deductible selling costs (agent fees, renovation invoices).

📌 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a long-term investor, a property seller, or a crypto trader, understanding Norway’s capital gains tax framework helps you stay compliant and minimize liabilities. The rules are detailed but fair—being proactive with your tax strategy can protect your returns.