Grönland

Översikt

Greenland is a constituent country as part of Denmark. The country is geographically situated closer to North America than to Europe, although politically, commercially and culturally it is much more closer to Europe, particularly Denmark. Granted home rule in 1979, continued autonomy has increased, with greater autonomy granted in 2008. In June 2009, Greenland assumed virtual self-control, although the country is still reliant upon Denmark regarding defence and finances.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Greenland. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza. Travellers might also consider the vaccinations for Hepatitis B and rabies, according to the specifics of their travel.

With extremely low temperatures during the winter months, travellers must ensure that they wear adequate warm clothing in order to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.

Tap water is safe to drink in Greenland.

Only basic medical services are available in Greenland. If more complex treatment or surgery is needed, patients will need to be transported off the island to a country with better facilities (such as Denmark). Although there are pharmacies in large towns, it can be difficult to obtain some medicines. Therefore travellers are advised to bring adequate supplies of required medication with them

Healthcare is generally free in Greenland. However, EU citizens should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before travelling, which will entitle them to be treated equally to Greenlanders should they need treatment. Travellers should also obtain the relevant medical insurance (note: an EHIC card does not provide insurance). To obtain an ambulance in Greenland it is necessary to first contact the police.

Pass

Although Greenland is a self-governing territory, it is still part of Denmark. Therefore much of the regulations that apply to Denmark also apply to Greenland. For nationals of many countries (such as most European countries and the United States) a valid passport is necessary to gain entry. Passports for visitors, aside from EU nationals, must be valid for six months beyond the date of entry.

Visum

Greenland is not a member of the European Union. Therefore although a valid passport is sufficient for entry for short tourist visits, if a longer stay or work permit is required an application must be made to the Danish government. It must be made clear that entry into Greenland is required (and not solely a permit for Denmark itself). Visitors from the EU, Canada, Australia and the US can stay up to 90 days without a visa. Nationals from Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway and Sweden can stay indefinitely.