Hunting in Norway - Rules and procedures

Hunting in Norway – Rules for Foreign Hunters

Introduction

Norway is one of Europe’s most spectacular hunting destinations. Vast forests, mountain plateaus, and healthy wildlife populations attract hunters from around the world looking for species such as moose, wild reindeer, capercaillie, ptarmigan, and trout.

However, hunting in Norway is strictly regulated. Foreign hunters must follow several legal requirements before participating in hunting activities.

In this guide, we explain the most important rules for foreign hunters visiting Norway, including registration, hunting rights, firearm rules, and practical preparations.

Can Foreigners Hunt in Norway?

Yes. Foreign hunters are allowed to hunt in Norway, but they must meet the same legal requirements as Norwegian hunters.

To hunt legally, you must:

• Be registered in the Norwegian Register of Hunters (Jegerregisteret)

• Pay the annual Norwegian hunting fee (jegeravgift)

• Document your hunting qualifications from your home country

• Have permission to hunt on specific land (hunting rights)

• Follow Norwegian firearm and hunting regulations

Authorities may check your documentation during hunting, so it is important to carry the required papers at all times.

Registration in the Norwegian Register of Hunters

All hunters in Norway must be registered in the national hunter registry.

Foreign hunters can be registered by documenting that they are legally qualified to hunt in their home country.

To apply for registration, documentation must normally be submitted to the Norwegian Register of Hunters, which is managed by the Norwegian authorities.

Information about the process can be found through the Norwegian authorities and public registers operated by Brønnøysundregistrene.

Typical documentation includes:

• Proof of hunting license or hunter education

• Supporting documentation from your home country

• Date of birth and address

Please contact Vildr.no if you need assistance with the application to the Norwegian Register of Hunters.

Once approved, you will receive a Norwegian hunter number, which allows you to pay the annual hunting fee.

Getting Help with Registration and Hunting Fee

For foreign hunters, the registration process can sometimes be confusing, especially when documentation must be submitted to Norwegian authorities.

Through Vildr, we can assist foreign hunters with:

• Guidance on registering in the Norwegian hunter registry

• Submitting the required documentation

• Completing the process so you can pay the Norwegian hunting fee (jegeravgift)

This makes it easier for visiting hunters to prepare their trip and ensure they meet all legal requirements before arriving in Norway.

The Norwegian Hunting Fee (Jegeravgift)

Every hunter must pay the Norwegian hunting fee each year.

The hunting year runs from April 1 to March 31, and the fee must be paid before participating in hunting activities.

You must be able to show proof of payment while hunting.

Typical cost: around NOK 400–500 per year.

Hunting Rights – Permission from Landowners

In Norway, hunting rights belong to the landowner. This means you cannot simply go hunting anywhere, even if you have paid the hunting fee.

To hunt legally, you must have:

• A hunting card or written permission from the landowner

• Documentation showing where you are allowed to hunt

Hunting access can be obtained in several ways:

• Renting hunting terrain directly from landowners

• Buying a hunting card through a hunting association

• Booking a hunting trip through a marketplace

Platforms like Vildr connect foreign hunters with Norwegian landowners offering hunting opportunities.

Big Game Hunting Requirements

If you plan to hunt big game with a rifle, such as:

• Moose (Elg)

• Red deer (Hjort)

• Wild reindeer (Rein)

you must complete the annual big game shooting test.

This shooting test must be completed every hunting year before participating in big game hunting.

Requirement for a Tracking Dog

When hunting big game in Norway, hunters must have access to a certified tracking dog (ettersøkshund).

The purpose is to track wounded animals quickly and ensure ethical hunting practices.

If you do not own a tracking dog yourself, you must have an agreement with someone who does. The dog must be available shortly after a shot if needed.

FAQ

Bringing Firearms to Norway

Foreign hunters are allowed to bring firearms into Norway, but the rules depend on whether you have a European Firearms Pass (EFP).

With a European Firearms Pass

If you hold an EFP:

• No separate Norwegian permit is required

• Firearms can be brought into Norway temporarily

• You must present the firearm and EFP if requested by customs

This permission typically applies for stays up to three months.

Without a European Firearms Pass

If you do not have an EFP, you must:

• Hold a valid firearm license in your home country

• Apply for temporary firearm import permission from Norwegian police

• Submit the application before travel

• Declare the firearm at customs upon arrival

Many visiting hunters choose to rent firearms locally, which simplifies the process.

Final Thoughts

Norway offers unique hunting experiences with pristine wilderness and strong wildlife populations.

By understanding the legal requirements, registering in the Norwegian hunter registry, paying the hunting fee, and securing hunting rights from landowners, foreign hunters can enjoy safe and legal hunting trips in Norway.

With the right preparation, hunting in Norway can become an unforgettable outdoor experience.