Now that you have decided to visit Iceland, you need to know what kind of documentation is required and if you need to apply for a visa beforehand.
Iceland is not a member of the European Union (EU), but it is a member state of the Schengen Area, which means that it is an area that allows unrestricted movement without passport controls and border controls for those who live in any of the member states . If you are visiting from outside the EU or the Schengen Area, you will only pass passport control at your first point of entry.
Do you need a passport?
You will only need a passport to enter Iceland if you are not a citizen of a country that is party to the Schengen Agreement, which includes all EU countries, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland. If you have already passed passport control when entering one of those countries, you will not need a second check in Iceland. Your passport must be valid for three months after the planned departure date from the Schengen area. Because all visitors are supposed to stay for 90 days, it is best if your passport is valid for six months after your date of entry into the Schengen area.
Do you need a visa?
Citizens of many countries will not need a tourist or business visa for stays of less than 90 days in Iceland. There is a list of countries on your Immigration Directorate site of those that need a visa and those that don’t.
Do you need a return ticket?
It is unlikely that you will be asked to show a return ticket, but it is possible. The US State Department website says you need to have sufficient funds and a return plane ticket.
Where do you apply for a visa?
If you are a citizen of a country that is not listed or you are unsure about your visa status, you may need to apply. Icelandic consulates do not issue visas, except those for Beijing or Moscow. Visa applications are taken at different embassies depending on the nation. See the list provided by the Directorate of Immigration.
Applications cannot be made by mail and appointments must be made in advance. You can contact them by phone or mail. Requirements include the application form, a passport-size photo, travel document, proof of financial support, documentation showing your ties to your country of origin, medical insurance, and documentation confirming the purpose of the trip. Most decisions are made within two weeks of request.
If you are visiting only one Schengen country, you must apply to the designated consulate of that country. However, if you are visiting more than one Schengen country, you must submit an application to the consulate of the country chosen as the main destination or the country that you will enter first (if you do not have a main destination).
The information displayed here does not constitute legal advice in any way, and we strongly recommend that you contact an immigration attorney for binding visa advice.
