Visa-free residence for Turkish citizens in 'that' region of Norway: Closer to the North Pole than the mainland

The Spitsbergen Treaty, which regulates the status of the Svalbard archipelago, has been published in the Official Gazette and has entered into force. With this decision, Turkish citizens have gained the opportunity to acquire property, reside, fish, mine, trade, and conduct scientific studies on the islands. It is noted that Svalbard is approximately 930 km from the Norwegian mainland and 650 km from the North Pole.

Turkey has been organizing scientific expeditions to the Arctic region in recent years. The latest research expedition conducted by the TÜBİTAK Marmara Research Center in Norway's exclusive economic zone, as well as the Svalbard Islands and their territorial waters, was completed on July 25, 2024.

WHERE IS SVALBARD?

Discovered in 1596, the Svalbard archipelago is located in the Arctic Ocean. Approximately 60 percent of the region is covered by glaciers, and 2,600 people live there. In 1925, Norway was granted sovereignty over the islands. In Svalbard, known as the northernmost administrative center in the world, citizens of nearly 40 countries are granted the right to settle.

The Spitsbergen Treaty, signed in Paris on February 9, 1920, and in effect since 1925, recognizes Norway's sovereignty over the islands while granting citizens of signatory countries the right to acquire property, reside, fish, mine, and conduct scientific research.

Norwegian official authorities stated that those who wish to go to Svalbard do not need to obtain a Schengen visa. However, citizens of countries that require a visa to enter the Schengen Area must obtain a double-entry visa to return to Norway or the Schengen Area after visiting Svalbard.

It was emphasized that finding housing in the region is difficult, and it was stated that the Norwegian state owns the majority of the land on the islands. It was noted that private residences are built on leased land and prices are high. For this reason, it is advised that those planning to go to the islands arrange employment and housing in advance. Additionally, it was learned that the governor of the island must approve the residency.

News Source: AA