South Georgia Visa Guide for Cruise Passengers
Starting August 1, 2025, all visitors to South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands must obtain an individual e-visa before disembarking from their expedition cruise. Here's what you need to know to get yours.
The Basics
Cost: £200 per person (about $250 USD)
Validity: 30 days from your arrival date
Application deadline: At least 14 days before your scheduled arrival
Refund policy: Non-refundable under any circumstances
Who Needs to Apply
Every passenger must apply individually, even if you're traveling together. Your cruise operator may handle bulk applications for the group, but many operators require passengers to apply themselves. Check with your cruise line about their policy before your trip.
Required Information
You'll need:
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least 4 weeks after your visa expires)
- Email address
- Travel dates (your cruise operator will provide the specific arrival date)
- Mandatory travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Visit the official application website at eta.entry.gov.gs
Step 2: Use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser (other browsers don't work with the system)
Step 3: Create an account and fill out the application form with information exactly as it appears on your passport
Step 4: Enter your arrival date as provided by your cruise operator (they typically add a 5-day buffer to account for weather delays)
Step 5: Pay the £200 fee by credit card
Step 6: Print your approved e-visa and bring it with you on the cruise
Critical Timing Requirements
- Apply at least 14 days before your arrival date
- Applications submitted less than 14 days out are only approved in exceptional circumstances
- No applications accepted within 4 days of arrival
- Most cruise operators recommend applying 3-4 weeks in advance to be safe
Insurance Requirements
You must have comprehensive travel insurance that includes:
- Medical evacuation coverage (minimum $250,000-$1,000,000)
- Coverage for polar/remote destinations
- Repatriation coverage
South Georgia has no medical facilities, hospitals, or rescue services. The nearest help is several days away by ship.
What Happens if You Don't Get Your Visa
You cannot disembark in South Georgia without a valid e-visa. Your cruise will continue, but you'll miss all South Georgia landings and activities. The visa fee is non-refundable even if you can't use it due to weather or other cancellations.
Common Problems to Avoid
Browser issues: Only use Chrome or Edge browsers. Firefox and Safari don't work.
Name matching: Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport, including middle names and suffixes.
Late applications: Don't wait until the last minute. The 14-day rule is strictly enforced.
Email problems: Check your spam folder for the approval email and make sure you can receive emails from the .gs domain.
Your Responsibilities Once Approved
With your e-visa, you agree to:
- Follow all wildlife viewing guidelines (stay at least 5 meters from animals)
- Only visit approved landing sites with certified guides
- Follow strict environmental protection rules
- Take nothing and leave nothing behind
Contact Information
- Application website: eta.entry.gov.gs
- Government contact: contact@gov.gs
- Official information: gov.gs
Bottom Line
Budget an extra £200 per person for your South Georgia expedition and apply at least 3 weeks before your cruise. The process is straightforward if you follow the requirements, but there's zero flexibility if you miss the deadlines or encounter problems. Your cruise operator should provide specific guidance about timing and procedures for your particular voyage.