Turkish citizens granted residence and commercial rights in Norway’s Svalbard

Turkish citizens and companies can now engage in maritime and mining activities in the Norwegian Svalbard Archipelago following Türkiye‘s accession to the Spitsbergen (Svalbard) Treaty, which defines the archipelago’s status in the Arctic. Turkish students can also pursue studies at the Svalbard University Center.

This development, announced by the Turkish Foreign Ministry, grants Turkish nationals the right to own property, reside, and conduct commercial activities in the Arctic region.

Though part of Norway, Svalbard has a special legal status under the Spitsbergen Treaty of 1920, allowing residents from signatory countries to live and work there without needing visas.

Interestingly, Svalbard is not part of the Schengen Area or the European Economic Area (EEA), further adding to its distinctive governance and access.

Strengthening Türkiye’s Arctic presence

The Spitsbergen Treaty, signed in Paris on February 9, 1920, and in effect since 1925, recognizes Norway’s sovereignty over the Svalbard Archipelago while granting equal rights to citizens of signatory states.

With Türkiye’s accession, Turkish citizens and companies can now acquire property, reside, fish in territorial waters, and engage in maritime and mining activities in Svalbard. Additionally, Turkish scientists will have the opportunity to conduct research at a planned Turkish Scientific Station, and Turkish students will gain access to education at the University Centre in Svalbard.

Diverse arctic wildlife and growing tourism

Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago located in the Arctic Ocean, between 74° and 81° north latitude and 10° and 35° east longitude. The region lies about midway between the northern coast of Norway and the North Pole.

Known for its extreme Arctic climate, the archipelago experiences midnight sun in the summer and polar night in the winter. Its largest island, Spitsbergen, dominates the rugged landscape, marked by vast glaciers and unique geography, attracting adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

Svalbard is home to a diverse range of Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, seals, and whale species. The archipelago is also known for its birdlife, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. The largest settlement is Longyearbyen, with around 2,100 residents from over 50 countries, serving as the administrative center. Other notable settlements include the Russian mining community of Barentsburg and the international Arctic research base at Ny-Alesund.

Hub for Arctic research

Svalbard has become a hub for Arctic research, with several research stations such as Ny-Ålesund focusing on environmental monitoring. Tourism is a growing sector, with activities like dog sledding, glacier hiking, and wildlife cruises attracting visitors worldwide.

Despite its remote location, Svalbard’s unique geography and biodiversity make it an important destination for both scientific exploration and eco-tourism.

Scientific expeditions and future Prospects

This move aligns with Türkiye’s goal of strengthening its presence in the Arctic, utilizing the region’s natural resources, and expanding its scientific and economic activities. Türkiye also continues to pursue observer status in the Arctic Council.

In recent years, Türkiye has been actively conducting scientific expeditions in the Arctic. The fourth National Arctic Scientific Research Expedition (TASE-IV), carried out by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye’s Marmara Research Center (TUBITAK MAM) in Norway’s Exclusive Economic Zone and Svalbard’s surrounding waters, was successfully completed between June 26 and July 25, 2024.