Mvareglene

Mvareglene refers to the set of value-added tax regulations applied in Norway, where VAT is known as Merverdiavgift (MVA). The rules are administered by the Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteetaten) in cooperation with the government and govern how VAT is charged, collected, and remitted on most goods and services sold domestically as well as certain imports.

The regime covers businesses and individuals engaged in taxable activity within Norway. Registration for MVA is required for businesses meeting the national threshold for taxable turnover. VAT-registered businesses must charge VAT on taxable supplies, issue VAT invoices, maintain appropriate records, and file periodic VAT returns. They may deduct input VAT paid on purchases against the output VAT collected, subject to specific rules and limitations.

Rates and exemptions: Norway employs a standard VAT rate and several reduced rates. The standard rate is 25 percent, with reduced rates of 15 percent for most food and non-alcoholic beverages and 12 percent for certain goods and services, such as some hotel accommodations and passenger transport. Some activities and products are exempt or outside the scope of MVA, including certain financial services and public health or education services. Exports are generally zero-rated, meaning VAT is not charged on the sale, though related administrative requirements may apply.

Cross-border and EEA considerations: The mvareglene regulate VAT on cross-border trade within the European Economic Area, including imports from and supplies to other EEA countries. Special rules apply for business-to-business versus business-to-consumer transactions, as well as mechanisms such as reverse charge for specific types of cross-border services.

Enforcement and updates: Tax authorities conduct audits and assessment procedures, with penalties for non-compliance. The mvareglene are periodically updated through legislation to reflect policy changes and economic conditions.