Can shops in Norway refuse to take cash?
The right to pay cash, its limits and where to complain.
Short answer
Staffed shops in Norway may not refuse cash for amounts up to NOK 20,000, because consumers have had a legal right to pay in cash since 1 October 2024. Vending machines and unstaffed shops are exempt. Dealers in goods may not take NOK 40,000 or more in cash, and no one must accept over 25 coins of each denomination.
Why
- The right comes from an amendment to section 2-1 of the Financial Contracts Act (finansavtaleloven), in force since 1 October 2024.
- Under section 3-5 of the Central Bank Act, notes and coins issued by Norges Bank are legal tender.
- The Norwegian Consumer Authority (Forbrukertilsynet) is the appeals body, and businesses that refuse cash risk infringement fines.
Details
If the shop has change available, it must also offer to give you change. Above NOK 20,000 the duty no longer applies, and under the Anti-Money Laundering Act (hvitvaskingsloven) dealers in goods cannot accept NOK 40,000 or more in cash, even if the payment is split into several parts. The duty also does not apply in premises that only a limited group can enter.
Tip
If a staffed shop refuses your cash for a purchase under NOK 20,000, you can contact the Norwegian Consumer Authority, which handles these cases.
Common misconception
Shops in Norway can go fully cashless if they want.
What actually happens
Staffed shops that sell to consumers must accept cash up to NOK 20,000. Only exceptions such as vending machines and unstaffed shops may refuse it.
People also ask
- Is it legal to refuse cash in Norway?
- Can I still pay with cash in Norway?
- Is there a limit on how much I can pay in cash?
Sources
This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check Norges Bank or the Norwegian Consumer Authority if in doubt.
Everyday payments mini-guideRelated questions
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How do I find the IBAN for my Norwegian bank account?
You find the IBAN for your Norwegian account in your bank's online bank or app under the account details, and also on your account statement.
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Why did my hotel or car rental company block money on my card in Norway?
Hotels and car rental companies reserve money on your card as security, and the reservation is released once the final amount is settled.
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How do I pay a Norwegian invoice with a KID number from abroad?
To pay a Norwegian invoice from abroad, make an international transfer to the payee's IBAN and BIC and enter the KID number as the payment reference.
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Do Norwegian banks charge an annual fee for debit cards?
Yes, banks such as DNB charge an annual fee for an adult debit card, currently NOK 295 a year, while cards for children and young people are free.