Selvstendige

Selvstendige is a Norwegian term that describes individuals who work for themselves rather than as employees. It encompasses self-employed professionals, sole proprietors, freelancers, and contractors who run their own business activities. In everyday language and official contexts, the term is often paired with selvstendig næringsdrivende to denote those who operate a business on their own.

Legal forms commonly used by selvstendige include the enkeltpersonforetak (sole proprietorship) and various corporate forms. Registration and oversight are managed in the Norwegian registry system, Brønnøysundregistrene, and tax authorities determine reporting requirements for business income and expenses.

Economically, selvstendige typically bear responsibility for their own income, taxes, and social security contributions. They may deduct business costs and are subject to value-added tax if turnover surpasses thresholds. Earnings can be irregular, with income linked to demand, market conditions, and project volume.

Advantages of self-employment include autonomy, flexible scheduling, and the ability to pursue specialized work. Challenges include income volatility, the need for self-management, and the requirement to secure pensions and health coverage independently. Public policy debates often focus on access to safety nets and the balance between flexibility and protections.

Note: Selvstendige is a general term and not a single organization. In discussions about work and the economy, it is used to describe a segment of the labor force characterized by independent operation rather than wage employment.