Forespørselsvar

Forespørselsvar is a Norwegian term for the formal answer provided by a public authority, or by a private entity in certain contexts, in response to a request for information or action. It is used within administrative processes and public information procedures, and reflects the outcome of a specific inquiry or request.

A forespørselsvar typically states whether the request is granted, partially granted, or denied. It explains the information that will be disclosed, any information that is withheld and the legal basis for withholding it, and references to relevant laws or regulations. The response may also specify the material provided, the format of the information, and any further steps the requester can take.

Content commonly included in a forespørselsvar includes the requester’s identification and reference details, the date, a clear description of the decision, the information supplied or withheld with justification, and information about rights to appeal or complain. In cases involving personal data, the reply will reflect applicable privacy protections and data handling rules.

The term is closely related to the right of access to public documents (innsyn) under Norwegian public administration law, and it may be used in both public-sector and certain private-sector information requests. Forespørselsvar is intended to provide transparency, ensure predictable handling of inquiries, and guide the requester on how to proceed if they are dissatisfied with the outcome.