Member Update—Progress on the Svalbard Guide Certification Scheme

Summary following the Governor of Svalbard’s information meeting, March 26.

AECO continues to engage with the Governor of Svalbard to ensure that the development of the Svalbard Guide Certification Scheme (SGC) is predictable, workable and aligned with safe, responsible and sustainable expedition cruise operations. AECO has recommended a one-year postponement and will continue to advocate for solutions that ensure safety, quality and operational feasibility.

Below is a brief update based on the latest information shared:

Key Clarifications to Date

Course Requirements

• The polar bear safety course will not be required to be completed in Svalbard.
• It will be possible to apply for guide certification approval based on courses that are not pre-approved by Governor of Svalbard.

Operator Flexibility

Operators may assess what constitutes a justifiable number of certified guides within their own operations.

Experience Requirements (1500 hours) The Governor has indicated a pragmatic approach to the 1500‑hour experience requirement:

• Documentation will be accepted in various forms (e.g. statement from employer, freelance, etc. containing information about the position, duties, activity, period of employment, or employment contract with pay slips, tax return showing income or similar).
• Hours counted likely include the full duty time
• Experience does not need to be fully built in Svalbard, although some Svalbard‑based experience will be required.

Curriculum

The guide curriculum is now available in English:

Next Steps

The Governor will develop a structured Q&A based on the discussions and additional questions received. Members can submit questions to reiseliv@sysselmesteren.no.