Member Update– Progress on the Svalbard Guide Certification Scheme
Posted: 27 March. 2026
Summary following the Governor of Svalbard’s information meeting, March 26.
AECO continues to engage closely 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. 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 (published March 25):
➡️https://www.sysselmesteren.no/contentassets/5e2db569e5ca40828f6ed589c219a551/course-and-learning-objectives-for-svalbard-guide.pdf
➡️https://www.sysselmesteren.no/en/approval-of-svalbard-guides/
Next Steps
The Governor will develop a structured Q&A based on the discussions and additional questions received. Members may submit questions directly to reiseliv@sysselmesteren.no. This Q&A will be important for creating more predictability.
AECO has recommended a one-year postponement of the SGC and will continue to advocate for workable solutions that ensure safety, quality and operational feasibility.