Cecelia ChangSeven Malaysians were among 12 foreign nationals deported from Norway in recent months for operating unauthorised Northern Lights tour services, according to Norway’s national broadcaster NRK.
The group, made up of seven Malaysians and five Chinese nationals, was found to be running paid passenger transport and guiding services without the required work permits, driving licences, or insurance coverage. All 12 individuals have been barred from entering Norway, the European Union, and the Schengen Area for two years.
Norwegian police said the individuals were detained during separate enforcement operations in popular Arctic tourism regions, including Tromsø, Lofoten, and Ofoten. Authorities added that those involved admitted to the offences.
Crackdown Amid Surge In Aurora Tourism
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The deportations come amid a surge in demand for Northern Lights experiences, especially in Tromsø, one of Europe’s most popular aurora-viewing destinations. Norwegian authorities said the boom has led to a rise in unauthorised operators offering “budget” tours to tourists.
Some tourists were reportedly charged over 100,000 Norwegian kroner (about RM40,000 or SGD12,500) per trip. These packages often included accommodation, a driver, and a guide.
“All you need is a seven-seater or an SUV and someone who can drive. Suddenly, you have a Northern Lights safari business,” said Kurt Kolvereid Jacobsen, head of the A-crime centre in Nordland.
He noted that illegal operators were especially visible in Tromsø, where some allegedly picked up tourists directly from the streets.
Safety And Insurance Concerns Raised
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Authorities warned that such illegal tours pose serious safety risks, particularly due to Norway’s harsh winter driving conditions.
These are operators who work illegally and do not comply with the Working Environment Act. They undercut prices, possibly at the expense of safety,” said Lone Helle, managing director of Visiting Tromsø. “It also harms the reputation of the industry.”
Jacobsen added that tourists may not always realise they are booking with unlicensed individuals, and may be unaware that these operators lack proper insurance and documentation.
Fines And Earnings Confiscated
Each of the illegal operators was fined 60,000 Norwegian kroner (around RM24,000 or SGD7,500) by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI). Authorities also confiscated their earnings before proceeding with deportation.
What Travellers From Singapore And Malaysia Should Know
For Singaporean and Malaysian travellers planning Northern Lights trips, the incident involving operators deported from Norway serves as a reminder to choose licensed tour providers. Norwegian authorities advise booking tours only through licensed operators and official tourism platforms. While cheaper options may seem attractive, travellers could be putting themselves at risk — especially in remote Arctic environments where safety standards and insurance coverage are critical.
The case highlights the risks associated with booking unofficial tour services, particularly in destinations with extreme weather conditions and stringent regulations.
