Visas and Immigration Guidelines for Travel to Svalbard
Svalbard Visa: Travelers entering Svalbard do not require a visa specifically for Svalbard; however, if you are from a country that requires a visa to enter Norway or the Schengen Area, you must have a visa to transit through Norway or Schengen countries on your way to or from Svalbard. To facilitate your return journey, ensure your visa includes at least two entries, which will allow you to re-enter the Schengen area (mainland Norway) after visiting Svalbard.
Foreign nationals residing on Svalbard may apply for a visa to Norway/Schengen through the Governor’s office.
Visa Requirement: Minimum Two Entries for Svalbard Travelers
When applying for a visa, it is essential to request two or more entries. This is because Svalbard is outside the Schengen area, even though it is part of Norway. For travelers who need a Schengen visa, having multiple entries ensures you can re-enter Norway/the Schengen area after your time in Svalbard. More information on this requirement can be found on the Directorate of Immigration’s (UDI) website.
Foreign nationals staying on Svalbard can also apply for a visa to Norway/Schengen through the Governor’s office. The Governor additionally processes applications for Norwegian residence and citizenship and forwards them to the UDI for further review.
Booking an Appointment
To schedule an appointment for visa, residence, or citizenship applications, please email the Governor’s office at visum@sysselmesteren.no. Include the applicant’s name, nationality, and type of application in your message. This procedure also applies to urgent requests.
If you are seeking a residence permit for mainland Norway, it is recommended to contact UDI first to confirm which documents are needed for your application.
For more guidance regarding Norway’s immigration policies, the Directorate of Immigration (UDI) can provide assistance. Visit UDI’s contact page for details on phone hours, chat services, and email.
Important Note on Citizenship and Residency
Living in Svalbard does not automatically grant rights to Norwegian citizenship or residency in mainland Norway. Any applications for residence or citizenship in Norway are subject to Norway’s immigration laws and require separate processing through the UDI.