- You are here:
- Home
- › Travel & living abroad
- › Your trip
- › Antarctica visitors
Antarctica visitors
Antarctica is a unique environment. It’s one of the most heavily protected places on earth and all visitors are required to adhere to strict environmental management requirements. These pages provide information on how we are protecting Antarctica, legislation governing the area, how you can obtain permits for expeditions and tourism in Antarctica.
You may need to obtain a permit if you want to visit Antarctica.
Carrying out certain activities in Antarctica without first obtaining a permit when required by legislation, or in breach of a permit condition, is a criminal offence punishable by up to two years imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.
There is more information on the permitting system in this section.
However you should note that these pages are intended for guidance only. They have no legal status.
Anyone planning to visit Antarctica should consult the information contained in this section or contact us (see contact details on the right) and if necessary seek independent legal advice.
Permits for expeditions
Information on obtaining permits to visit Antarctica for scientific or other professional purposes.
Share this with:
Useful contacts
Polar Regions Unit
Overseas Territories Directorate
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
London SW1A 2AH
Telephone: 0207 008 1921
Fax: 0207 008 2086
Lesley.Peto@fco.gov.uk
Our work
Read a case study about our recent projects in Antarctica -
Putting Antarctica on the map
Useful Links
- Antartctic Treaty Secretariat - provides information on resolutions, ASMAs, ASPAs and Antarctic historic sites
International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO)