HSE Cards in Norway (HMS-kort) - what foreign companies need to know

Foreign companies sending employees to Norway must comply with local employment and safety regulations. In certain industries, one key requirement is the HSE card in Norway, also known as the HMS card.

The HSE card is a mandatory ID card designed to promote safe, lawful and transparent working conditions. Employees working in regulated sectors must carry a valid HSE card while on the job.

What is an HSE card (HMS-kort) in Norway?

An HSE card in Norway is an official identification card confirming that:

• the employer is properly registered
• the employment relationship is reported
• the worker has legal access to the workplace

The card helps Norwegian authorities combat undeclared work, improve safety and ensure fair competition.

Who needs an HSE card in Norway?

The HSE card requirement primarily applies to the following industries:

• Construction
• Cleaning
• Goods transport (mandatory from 1 January 2026)

If your foreign company operates in any of these sectors in Norway, even on a temporary or project basis, each employee must have a valid HSE card.

Other industries are generally not covered, but sector-specific rules may apply and should always be verified before work begins.

HSE card requirements for foreign companies

Before applying for HSE cards for employees in Norway, foreign employers must complete several mandatory registrations:

• Register the company in the relevant Norwegian registers
• Ensure employees have a Norwegian ID number (D-number or national ID number)
• Report employment relationships and work assignments to the Norwegian authorities
• Register for VAT if the company supplies VAT-liable services in Norway

Only after these steps are completed can the employer apply for HSE cards on behalf of its employees.

Validity and use of HSE cards in Norway

• HSE cards are normally valid for up to two years
• The card must be visibly displayed while working on-site
• Cards are personal and non-transferable
• If employment ends or company details change, the card must be returned or replaced

Failure to keep HSE card information up to date may result in invalid cards.

Why HSE card compliance matters

Failure to comply with HSE card requirements in Norway may lead to:

• fines and penalties
• work stoppages
• exclusion from construction sites or client projects

Beyond enforcement, correct use of HSE cards supports worker safety, transparency and trust between foreign companies and Norwegian clients.

Getting HSE cards right from the start

For foreign companies planning work in Norway, the HSE card is not an administrative formality. It is a legal requirement and a practical necessity for smooth project execution.

Early preparation of registrations and documentation helps avoid delays and ensures employees can start work as planned.

ECOVIS advises foreign companies on HSE card obligations in Norway, including registrations, employment reporting and overall compliance. We support your project from planning to execution, so your workforce can operate legally and without disruption.

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