Understand

Svalbard, the northernmost tip of Europe, is an exhilarating destination that will leave you in awe. Its settlements, located between the 76 and 81 parallels, are even further north than any part of Alaska or Canada's Arctic islands. This icy wilderness, covering a vast 62,050km², would be inaccessible without the moderating influence of the Gulf Stream. Thanks to this, the islands are habitable, with a population of less than 3000, primarily residing in the vibrant main settlements of Longyearbyen and Barentsburg on Spitsbergen Island. As you explore these captivating lands, governed by the Sysselmann p Svalbard, which oversees essential services and public safety, you'll encounter breathtaking landscapes and a unique way of life.

Get in

Svalbard has an incredibly unique visa policy that allows anyone to live and work there indefinitely, regardless of their country of citizenship. However, reaching Svalbard can be quite challenging and costly. Most travelers will need to make a stopover in Norway before heading to Svalbard, as it is nearly impossible to reach the archipelago directly. Although Svalbard is technically a part of Norway, it has its own separate border regulations. While mainland Norway is part of the Schengen area, Svalbard is not. This means that if you fly to Oslo from outside the Schengen area and connect to a nonstop flight to Svalbard, you do not need to go through Norwegian immigration and you only need a visa if your nationality requires one for airside transit. However, if you have a layover in Troms (which is likely on SAS flights), you will need to go through immigration in Oslo, make sure to prepare your necessary documents in advance, and then board the domestic flight to Svalbard. During the layover in Troms, you will need to go through exit immigration. It is important to be extremely careful if you require a Schengen visa, as the necessity of this visa depends on whether your flight from Oslo to Svalbard stops in Troms. With careful planning, you can make your journey to Svalbard smooth and hassle-free!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Rakfisk - This traditional Norwegian delicacy consists of small, raw, salted and cured fish, typically trout or char, which are fermented in a mixture of salt and water. The process can last anywhere from 6 weeks to several years, resulting in a strong, pungent flavor.

Lutefisk - A highly debated Norwegian dish made from dried whitefish, traditionallystockfish or cod, which is then soaked in Lye and water mixture for several days to soften the flesh. It's often served alongside butter, boiled potatoes, and sour cream.

Salmon - As one of Norway's most valuable seafood exports, salmon is a staple in Norwegian cuisine. Fresh, smoked, or cured, this nutritious and flavorful fish is commonly enjoyed grilled, baked, or prepared in various other ways.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing