The Voluntary Human Offering Registry (VHO Registry) is administered by the Rovaniemi Municipal Office of Threshold Compliance in conjunction with the Lapland Regional Entity Authority. Registration is not mandatory but is strongly recommended for all non-Finnish nationals visiting the Santaland threshold zone during peak season.
What is the VHO Registry?
The VHO Registry formalises the long-standing informal arrangement between the municipal authority and the entities resident within and adjacent to the Arctic Circle threshold. Registered participants consent to a single, non-binding Consideration Review, conducted annually by the Threshold Review Panel, which determines whether the registered individual meets the profile criteria for further assessment.
The vast majority of registrants receive no further contact.
Why Register?
Unregistered visitors who interact with threshold entities are not covered under the Lapland Mutual Recognition Agreement (2019). Registered participants benefit from:
- Priority processing at the Threshold Assessment Office
- Access to the Appeal Form (Form VH-9) in the event of an adverse Consideration decision
- A formal record of arrival and, where applicable, departure
Registration does not constitute consent to any specific outcome.
Current Status
The VHO Registry is currently suspended following a capacity breach at the Santaland threshold zone. Full details are available in the municipal suspension notice. The Threshold Review Panel is reviewing the situation. Visitors arriving during the suspension period are advised to retain their travel documents and avoid unsolicited entity contact.
Re-registration for the following season is expected to open in October, subject to capacity review.
How to Register (when open)
Registration is completed in person at the Threshold Compliance Office. Applicants should bring valid identification, travel insurance documentation, and a completed Form VH-1 (Declaration of Voluntary Participation). Form VH-1 is available at Rovaniemi Airport arrivals and at the Arctic Circle welcome centre.
Registration is processed within three working days. A confirmation letter will be issued to the address provided. No confirmation letter constitutes a favourable outcome.
Further Information
Inquiries should be directed to the Threshold Compliance Office, Hallituskatu 7, Rovaniemi, between 09:00 and 15:00 Monday through Thursday. The office is closed on days of elevated solar or auroral activity.
After 21:00, residents and registered participants should remain indoors.
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