South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands to introduce electronic entry permits

The Government of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands has announced the implementation of a mandatory electronic entry permit system (ETA) for all visitors to the region. This measure is intended to facilitate the control of tourist access to the region's unique natural resources.

The launch of the official portal for application submission was initially planned for August 1, 2025, however, due to technical problems related to payment security, its launch has been temporarily postponed. The new start date of the system has not yet been determined, an official statement is expected in the coming days.

According to representatives of the authorities, soon everyone planning to visit the coast of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands will be required to obtain permits through the new electronic system. This rule will apply to tourists arriving on cruise liners and sailing vessels, scientific and research groups, documentary directors and photographers, as well as crew members.

The government reminds that most people arriving for tourism or work purposes will require a special permit. Different types of documents are provided for tourists and workers. Applications must be submitted no later than 14 days before the planned date of arrival. The entry permit is valid for 30 days, and the work permit is valid for up to one year.

The introduction of the electronic system will make the process of obtaining permits as simple and convenient as possible for all travelers. It will help effectively control the growing flow of tourists and ensure the long-term protection of the unique nature of South Georgia. The new system will replace the previous regime based on landing fees and individual permits, simplifying access management, centralizing information about travelers, and ensuring compliance with all applicable environmental standards.

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