Traveling to Iceland: Visa Requirements & Essential Information
Ever dreamed of witnessing the stunning auroras illuminate winter skies, or experiencing the sun hovering just above the horizon during the vibrant summer nights of Iceland? Such unique wonders await in this enchanting country. If you are planning or dreaming about a visit, you may be fortunate: many travelers can explore Iceland without a visa.
Here’s everything you need to know about visa requirements for visiting Iceland.
Can I enter Iceland without a visa?
If you are a citizen of a country within the European Union or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), you do not require a visa to enter Iceland. As a member of the Schengen Area, Iceland allows for the free movement of individuals across the borders of most European nations. Therefore, if you have obtained a visa for another Schengen country, an additional visa for Iceland is unnecessary, as the uniform Schengen visa is valid throughout the zone.
Citizens from countries like the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and the UK (which is not a Schengen member) also enjoy the benefit of visa-free travel to the Schengen Area. However, keep in mind that a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is set to launch soon. This will require travelers to complete an online application and pay a fee, with implementation expected by early 2025.
Besides a visa, what else do I need to visit Iceland?
For tourism or business purposes, visitors can stay in Iceland or other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Moreover, you must possess sufficient funds and a return ticket to ensure your departure.
It is essential that your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen Area, and it should have been issued within the last ten years. Additionally, children and minors are required to have their own passports.
Where do I apply for a visa to Iceland?
For those who do need a visa, such as citizens of India and China, applications can be submitted at Iceland’s embassies, including those in London, New Delhi, Beijing, and Washington, DC. Additionally, embassies of Schengen member states located in about 120 other cities worldwide can process visas on Iceland’s behalf.
Typically, many embassies and consulates enlist service providers to receive visa applications. These third-party services handle initial processing, after which the embassy reviews and decides on the application. Please note that this service mainly pertains to short-term C-visas for brief visits, business trips, or short-term studies. Applications for long-term D-visas, or residence permits, should go through the Directorate of Immigration.
What is the visa-application process and how much does it cost?
The application process will depend on where you apply; detailed guidance can typically be found on the respective embassy or application center’s website. It is advisable to begin the application at least 15 days in advance to accommodate processing times. The standard fee for a visa application is €80 (€40 for children aged 6 to 12).
Can I extend my visa for Iceland?
Yes, under certain circumstances, you can extend your visa if its validity is less than 90 days. For further information regarding visa extensions, refer to official government resources.
Can I take a working holiday in Iceland?
Citizens of Andorra, Canada, Japan, and the UK can apply for working-holiday and youth-mobility permits based on bilateral agreements. Applications must be submitted in paper form, and the processing fee is ISK16,000, with Japanese nationals eligible to apply for free.
