In 2025, Norway is intensifying its efforts to combat labor crime, social dumping, and employer non-compliance. The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet) has been allocated increased government funding and granted broader legal powers to identify and address violations more efficiently. In this blog we’ll cover what this implies, penalties and key priorities for 2025.
Increased funding for enhanced enforcement
The Norwegian government's 2025 budget includes an additional NOK 18 million earmarked for Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority. This funding aims to bolster the Authority's capacity to conduct more frequent and targeted workplace inspections, particularly in high-risk sectors such as construction, transport, and cleaning.
Stricter penalties for non-compliance
Effective from July 1, 2024, legislative amendments have significantly increased the maximum administrative fines that Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority can impose. The cap has been raised to either 50 times the National Insurance basic amount (G), approximately NOK 6.2 million, or 4% of the company's annual turnover, whichever is higher. These changes underscore the government's commitment to deterring violations of the Working Environment Act.
Also read: How companies can comply with employee rights in Norway
Establishment of the Labour Crime Section in Eastern Norway
To strengthen enforcement in regions with higher risks of labor violations, Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority has established a new Labour Crime Section based in Oslo. This unit comprises approximately 15 professionals, including inspectors and legal advisors, focusing on industries and sectors requiring heightened scrutiny, specifically in the counties surrounding the Oslo area.
Key priorities for 2025
Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority's enhanced enforcement strategy centers around three main objectives:
- Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE): Ensuring that workplaces adhere to HSE standards to prevent accidents and promote occupational health. Employers are required to implement systematic HSE practices, including risk assessments, employee training, and collaboration with authorized occupational health services.
- Fair Working Conditions: Targeting industries with vulnerable workers to uphold fair labor standards and prevent exploitation. This includes ensuring compliance with employment contracts, working hours, and wage regulations, particularly in sectors where collective agreements set minimum standards.
- Labour Crime Prevention: Strengthening inter-agency collaboration to identify and prosecute serious violations, including undeclared work and other forms of labor-related crimes. Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority works closely with the Tax Administration, Police, and NAV to conduct joint inspections and share information, enhancing the detection and deterrence of workplace crimes.
Also read: Mandatory workplace regulations in Norway — Are yours in place
Employers operating in Norway must stay informed about these developments and ensure compliance with the evolving regulatory landscape. Proactive measures, including regular audits of employment practices and adherence to HSE standards, are essential to mitigate risks and avoid substantial penalties.
For a more comprehensive understanding of these changes and practical guidance on compliance, join our upcoming webinar: "Workplace Inspections in Norway”.