How do you obtain necessary permits and permissions for field research?

1 Identify the requirements

Depending on the location, scope, and nature of your field research, you may need to comply with different requirements and regulations. These may include obtaining visas, research permits, ethical approvals, informed consent forms, and access agreements. You should research the specific requirements for your destination country, region, and site, and consult with local experts, partners, or institutions. You should also check the guidelines and policies of your own organization, funder, or publisher.

2 Plan ahead

Obtaining permits and permissions for field research can be a time-consuming and complex process. You should plan ahead and start the application process as early as possible, preferably at the proposal stage. You should also budget for the costs and fees associated with the permits and permissions, such as visa fees, application fees, translation fees, and travel expenses. You should also anticipate potential delays, challenges, or changes in the process, and have a contingency plan in case of unforeseen circumstances.

3 Prepare the documents

To apply for the permits and permissions, you will need to prepare various documents that demonstrate the purpose, methods, and outcomes of your field research. These may include a research proposal, a curriculum vitae, a letter of invitation or affiliation, a letter of support or endorsement, an ethical clearance certificate, an informed consent form, and a data management plan. You should make sure that your documents are clear, concise, and consistent, and that they address the specific criteria and expectations of the authorities and stakeholders.

4 Submit the applications

Once you have prepared the documents, you can submit them to the relevant authorities and stakeholders for review and approval. You should follow the instructions and procedures carefully, and provide all the necessary information and supporting documents. You should also keep track of the status and progress of your applications, and communicate with the authorities and stakeholders regularly. You should also be prepared to answer any questions, clarify any issues, or provide any additional documents that they may request.

5 Respect the rules

After you have obtained the permits and permissions, you should respect the rules and conditions that they entail. You should carry the permits and permissions with you at all times during your field research, and present them when required. You should also comply with the ethical standards and principles that govern your field research, such as respecting the rights, dignity, and privacy of the participants, ensuring the validity and reliability of the data, and acknowledging the contributions and sources of the data.

6 Renew or extend the permits and permissions

Depending on the duration and scope of your field research, you may need to renew or extend the permits and permissions that you have obtained. You should check the expiry dates and validity periods of your permits and permissions, and apply for renewal or extension before they expire. You should also inform the authorities and stakeholders of any changes or updates in your field research, such as changes in the research objectives, methods, or outcomes, or changes in the research team, partners, or location.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?