Arctic fieldwork presents a different set of challenges than fieldwork in many other places. The harsh climate, complicated logistics, safety concerns, and legislation are important factors to take into consideration when planning research in Svalbard. While some research activities in Svalbard do not require prior consent, other research activities may be subject to the approval of several government bodies.
Start your preparations early
Your research project must be registered in the Research in Svalbard (RiS) database well in advance. Search through existing projects in the database to make sure your project is original and does not duplicate research and/or existing infrastructure. Registered projects will be assigned a unique RiS-ID number, which must be obtained before you can apply for a permit from the Governor of Svalbard, book flights to and accommodation in Ny-Ålesund, or do research at the Stanisław Siedlecki Polar Station in Hornsund.
Applications for environmental permits is to be submitted to the Governor of Svalbard through the RiS database. Also use the guide for scientists from the Governor of Svalbard. Obtaining a permit will take a minimum of four weeks and may take longer if your application does not meet the requirements.
Application dates
Applications must be sent following these deadlines:
- 1 March for fieldwork in June, July and August
- 1 July for fieldwork in September, October and November
- 1 October for fieldwork December, January and February
- 1 January for fieldwork in March, April and May
Here you can find information about bodies that may be relevant if you are conducting research in Svalbard: Research permissions, relevant bodies.
Regulations to consider for researchers
Svalbard-specific Norwegian legislation, notably the Svalbard Environmental Protection Act (2001) and regulations, is highly relevant to all field research in the archipelago. More often than not, field research will require an exemption from the environmental regulations and/or a permit from the Governor of Svalbard.
With some exceptions, general Norwegian legislation also applies to the entire Svalbard and regulates a number of research-relevant activities, including the use of radio frequencies, manned and unmanned aircraft operations, the processing of personal data, installations that may affect maritime safety and navigation, the handling of sources of radiation, marine scientific research, animal experiments, the use of airborne photo/video sensors, the ringing of birds, the launching of objects into space, and working arrangements.
Please note that many of the regulations and restrictions that apply in Svalbard vary with the season, and that different rules apply to residents and visitors. A selection of the regulations most relevant to research and fieldwork is presented on the website of the Governor of Svalbard:
More often than not, field research will require an exemption from the environmental regulations and/or a permit from the Governor of Svalbard. For more information about activities that require the Governor's consent, see the Governor's guide to researchers in Svalbard.
Protected areas
Before leaving for fieldwork, make sure you have checked the regulations and hold the necessary permits for the area you are visiting.
