Permits

Permission for export of natural history specimens

Under Act No. 54/2024, natural history specimens may not be exported from Iceland except with the permission of the Natural Science Institute of Iceland and under the conditions set by the Institute on each occasion. The same applies to micro-organisms originating in geothermal areas and their genetic material.

The Institute is responsible for evaluating whether a natural history specimen is unique or rare enough to constitute an Icelandic national treasure, which under no circumstances may be exported. Examples may include rare minerals and fossils.

A fee is charged for the issuance of export licence for research samples and for export licences for members of the general public for souvenirs and mounted animals, in accordance with the fee list of the Natural Science Institute of Iceland.

A formal application should be sent with an application form (PDF) to the NSII by e-mail, natt@natt.is. The form can be filled out on the computer if opened in a PDF reader.

Bird ringing permits

The Natural Science Institute of Iceland is responsible for bird ringing in Iceland under Act No. 64/1994 on the protection, conservation and hunting of birds and wild mammals. The NSII has the sole authority to ring or otherwise mark wild birds in Iceland.

Bird ringing is carried out by bird enthusiasts and ornithologists who have received the necessary ringing permit. A basic ringing permit allows a bird ringer to capture wild birds, fit them with metal bird rings and then release them again after ringing is complete. Other marking is forbidden without an additional permit. Bird ringing is volunteer work, but bird ringers have rights to handle wild birds that others do not.

For more information, contact the NSII email to fuglamerki@natt.is.