New regulations on field safety in Svalbard from 1 January

The Field Operation Safety Regulations will come into force on 1 January 2026, and will replace the current regulations on tourism, field trips and other travel activities in Svalbard.

Opening hours in December

From Monday 1 December, the Governor's Office will have some changes to the opening hours until the New Year. The same applies to visa applications.

Inspection of glaciers

In September, the Governor, in collaboration with the Longyearbyen Red Cross Corps, carried out a helicopter inspection of some glaciers in Svalbard.

Fined for breaking sea ice

A captain has been fined NOK 40,000 for breaking sea ice in Tempelfjorden this spring.

New routines in weapons management: Purchase of weapon

The Governor only processes applications for a permit to purchase firearms for polar bear protection in Svalbard. This applies to Norwegian citizens and foreigners who are registered in the population register in Svalbard. Application forms for the acquisition of weapons are available from the Governor or a weapons dealer.

All applications for the acquisition of firearms and weapon parts for hunting and sport shooting for persons with a registered address on the mainland must be submitted via www.politiet.no.