Because of the different interpretations of what a STAR-clearance actually means, there was published an AIC in Norway in 2010 to clear up these matters...
SID/STAR PROCEDURES IN NORWAY FIR
The intention of this AIC is to provide updated guidelines for the use of SID and STAR in Norway FIR.
1. Arriving aircraft (STAR) and clearances
1.1 A STAR is characterised by an uninterrupted track from a defined start point up to a defined end point (for instance IF, FAF/FAP) where a relevant instrument approach may commence.
1.2 A clearance to follow a STAR implies that the aircraft shall follow the published track at its last cleared level and descend only according to explicit level clearance(s) from ATC.
When a STAR clearance is issued together with a clearance for instrument approach (see paragraph 3.2.2), this implies a clearance to commence descend.
1.3 An instrument approach shall not be commenced without an explicit clearance from ATC.
If a clearance for an instrument approach has not been received, the aircraft shall enter the holding pattern at the STAR end point (see para. 1.1).
2. Level clearances in conjunction with SID/STAR
2.1 When an arriving aircraft on a STAR is cleared to descend, the aircraft shall follow the published vertical profile of the STAR. Published level restrictions (eg. CROSS (significant point) [AT OR] ABOVE/BELOW (level)) shall be adhered to, unless such restrictions are explicitly cancelled by ATC. Published minimum levels based on terrain clearance shall always be applied.
2.2 When a departing aircraft on a SID is cleared to climb to a level higher than the level(s) specified in the SID, the aircraft shall follow the published vertical profile of the SID, unless such restrictions are explicitly cancelled by
ATC.
Note: This regulation applies when the SID specifies significant points which shall be crossed below/above a specified level. Most SIDs in Norway contains just a published initial cleared level (specified in the SID chart description). Further clearance to levels above this level can be issued without utilising the phraseology described in paragraph 3.2.4 below.
2.3 Level restrictions issued by ATC shall be repeated in conjunction with subsequent level clearances in order to remain in effect.
PDF:
https://www.ippc.no/ippc/display_pdf...0_A_005_en.pdf