ARTE RE: Welcome to Svalbard – Visa-free in the Arctic

Svalbard is the only place in the world where anyone can live and work without a visa. But life in the Arctic is very demanding.

People from more than 50 nations have found a new home here. Some are drawn to the arctic seclusion in search of well-paid work, others are fascinated by the breathtaking nature. Residents share the island with thousands of polar bears and trips into the wild nature require carrying a gun for safety. Anyone can come, but there is no community network or social services to rely on. Everyone must be able to support themselves or leave the island again.