Lilshira
Faroe Islands launch HEIM 2030 sustainable tourism strategy
Visit Faroe Islands has introduced the HEIM 2030 sustainable tourism strategy, aimed at strengthening local communities, welcoming visitors responsibly and protecting natural and cultural heritage. The initiative takes effect now and applies to all tourists, cruise passengers and volunteers visiting the archipelago.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- A new HEIM 2030 strategy guides tourism development
- Timing
- Effective immediately upon announcement
- Who is affected
- All visitors, cruise guests and volunteer participants
The details
- Announced by
- Visit Faroe Islands
- New rule
- The HEIM 2030 strategy sets three priorities: strengthen local communities, create an open and welcoming environment for visitors, and protect the islands' natural and cultural heritage.
HEIM 2030 strategy overview
The strategy was shaped through extensive consultation with residents and stakeholders, emphasizing a bottom‑up approach rather than top‑down directives. It places the islands' people at the centre of tourism planning, ensuring that growth does not compromise quality of life.
- Three guiding priorities: community strength, visitor openness, heritage protection
- Consultation involved thousands of exchanges and hundreds of meetings
Please Visit Responsibly campaign
Running alongside the strategy, the campaign gives clear guidance for travellers to minimise environmental impact and respect local life. Advice includes staying on marked trails, keeping distance from sheep and birds, closing farm gates and using drones responsibly.
- Encourages use of local guides and participation in cultural events
- Highlights safety on rapidly changing weather and mountain routes
Closed for Maintenance, Open for Voluntourism programme
Since 2019, selected sites close to ordinary tourists for a few days each year, allowing volunteers and Faroese residents to carry out maintenance and restoration work. By 2026 the programme had completed 72 projects across 46 locations, involving 754 international volunteers and 279 locals.
- Applicants must be at least 18, speak English and be physically fit
- Participants cover travel costs; organisers provide basic accommodation and meals
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Tourists should follow the Please Visit Responsibly guidelines during their stay
- Cruise passengers can expect limited site access on days when voluntourism projects are active
Cost and documents
- No new entry fees or visa requirements are introduced
- Volunteers must provide proof of English proficiency and physical fitness
What you need to do
- Visitors should review the responsible‑tourism advice before arrival
- Prospective volunteers need to apply through the programme and meet age and fitness criteria
Who this affects
-
General tourists
The HEIM 2030 strategy and responsible‑tourism campaign apply to all visitors to the islands
What to do Follow the recommended behaviours such as staying on marked trails and respecting private property
-
Cruise ship passengers
Cruise visits are managed under the new community‑led limits on ship calls and site closures
What to do Check cruise itineraries for possible site closures during voluntourism days
-
Volunteers in the Closed for Maintenance programme
The programme invites international volunteers to assist with maintenance projects
What to do Submit an application, demonstrate English ability and physical fitness, and cover travel expenses
Frequently asked questions
What is the HEIM 2030 tourism strategy in the Faroe Islands?
The HEIM 2030 strategy is a sustainable tourism plan launched by Visit Faroe Islands that focuses on strengthening local communities, welcoming visitors responsibly and protecting natural and cultural heritage.
Do I need a new visa or fee to visit the Faroe Islands under the new strategy?
No new visa requirements or entry fees are introduced; existing travel regulations remain unchanged.
How can I volunteer on a maintenance project in the Faroe Islands?
Apply through the Closed for Maintenance, Open for Voluntourism programme, be at least 18, speak English and be physically fit; travel costs are covered by the participant.
What responsibilities does the Please Visit Responsibly campaign place on travellers?
Travellers are asked to stay on marked trails, keep distance from wildlife, close farm gates, respect private property, prepare for changing weather and use drones responsibly.
Will cruise ship visits be limited under the new tourism approach?
Cruise ships continue to call at ports, but each village limits ship calls to three per year and may restrict access to specific sites during volunteer maintenance periods.
