Norway Cracks Down on Illegal Northern Lights Tours, Expels Foreign Nationals

Norwegian authorities have been cracking down on unlicensed tour operators offering Northern Lights excursions, resulting in the expulsion of twelve foreign nationals from Malaysia and China over the past three months. The expulsions, which began in September, target individuals operating without the necessary permits, insurance, or safety measures.

The Rise of Illegal Tours and Police Response

The surge in Northern Lights tourism, particularly among Asian visitors, has fueled a rise in illegal tour operations. According to Gudjon Gudjonsson, section leader at the Nordland Police District, these tours have grow highly profitable, with significant sums of money changing hands. Police have confiscated illegal earnings exceeding 100,000 Norwegian kroner per tour in some cases. Scandasia

Modus Operandi of Illegal Operators

The individuals expelled were found to be transporting and guiding tourists for payment without the required work permits. Many operated using rented seven-seat vehicles or SUVs driven into Norway from Sweden and Finland, recruiting customers through private social media groups. Kurt Kolvereid Jacobsen, head of the A-Krim Centre in Nordland, noted the ease with which these businesses are established: “The only thing you need is a seven-seater or an SUV and someone who can drive. Suddenly, you have a Northern Lights safari business.” Scandasia

Penalties and Future Restrictions

Those expelled are banned from entering Norway, the EU, and the Schengen area for two years. Authorities emphasize the serious risks posed by these operations to tourists and the negative impact on legitimate tour operators. Scandasia

Legitimate Tour Options

For travelers seeking a guided Northern Lights experience in Northern Norway, several reputable companies offer tours in multiple languages, including Chinese. Northern Norway Travel provides small group tours in Tromsø with certified local guides, safe transport, and thermal suits. Northern Norway Travel BookNordics.com also offers Northern Lights chases from Tromsø with Chinese-speaking guides, including a local meal and campfire experience. BookNordics