How to Apply for a Visa: Antarctica

How to Apply for a Visa: Antarctica

The Antarctic Treaty’s Protocol on Environmental Protection in 1998 declared that all visitors to Antarctica must obtain a permit to enter, but no visa is required for citizens of any countries that signed the Antarctica Treaty. To see the list of countries exempt from visas (includes U.S., UK, Australia) or if you’d like to read more about the Antarctic Treaty, please use this link.

Prior to the tour, each tour participant will need to apply for a permit. We will provide more information about the application process as we get closer to the tour departure date.

Upon boarding the expedition ship to Antarctica, you will need to present a valid passport.

Note: If you are joining us in Buenos Aires, please see the visa page for Argentina.

UK ETA – for anyone transiting through the UK

Effective January 8, 2025, all U.S. citizens transiting the UK or traveling to the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conference, or short-term study for 6 months or less will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to travel.

Here is a link to information on the ETA. The cost is 10 euros per person and can be paid by credit card. Note that processing can take up to three days or more.

The easiest way to apply is to use the phone app UK ETA. To use the app, you will need a photo of your passport and a photo of yourself. If you are applying on behalf of someone else, you can apply online rather than using the phone app. Here is a link with information for the application process.