Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, which simplifies travel for many visitors but also means specific rules apply. Here's everything you need to know.
Schengen Area Basics
Iceland joined the Schengen Agreement in 2001. The Schengen Area includes 27 European countries with:
No internal border controls
Common visa policy
Shared 90/180-day rule
Who Doesn't Need a Visa?
Visa-Free Countries (90 days)
Citizens of these countries can visit Iceland without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period:
United States
Canada
United Kingdom (post-Brexit)
Australia
New Zealand
Japan
South Korea
Most EU/EEA countries
EU/EEA Citizens
No visa required
No time limit
Right to work
Bring valid ID or passport
Who Needs a Visa?
Citizens of countries not on the visa-free list must apply for a Schengen visa. This includes many countries in:
Africa
Asia
Middle East
Some South American countries
Visa Application Process
1Determine visa type (tourist, business, etc.)
2Apply at Icelandic embassy or VFS center
3Submit documents:
Completed application form
Valid passport (6+ months validity)
Recent photos
Travel insurance (€30,000 minimum coverage)
Proof of accommodation
Return flight booking
Proof of financial means
Employment/study documents
4Pay visa fee (approximately €80)
5Attend interview if required
6Wait for processing (15-45 days)
The 90/180-Day Rule
For visa-free visitors and those with Schengen visas:
Maximum 90 days in any 180-day period
Applies to entire Schengen Area combined
Days in other Schengen countries count
How to Calculate
Count backwards 180 days from today
Add all days spent in Schengen Area
Must not exceed 90 days
Entry Requirements
Everyone Needs:
Valid passport
Proof of accommodation
Return/onward ticket (may be requested)
Sufficient funds
Additional for Some:
Valid visa (if required)
Travel insurance (strongly recommended for all)
Proof of purpose of visit
Arriving in Iceland
At Keflavik Airport
Immigration check for non-Schengen arrivals
Customs: Red or green channel
Nothing to declare: Green channel
Items to declare: Red channel
By Ferry (Smyril Line)
Immigration at port
Same requirements apply
Duty-Free Allowances
Alcohol (age 20+)
1L spirits AND 0.75L wine AND 3L beer, OR
1L spirits AND 6L beer, OR
1.5L wine AND 12L beer
Tobacco (age 18+)
200 cigarettes OR
250g tobacco products
Other Items
Limited fishing gear (must be disinfected)
No raw meat, dairy, or eggs
Pets require specific permits
Long-Term Stays
For stays over 90 days, you need a residence permit. Categories include:
Work
Study
Family reunification
Self-employment
Apply before arriving or within 90 days of arrival at the Directorate of Immigration.
Directorate of Immigration: utl.is
Emergency: 112
Icelandic embassies: government.is
Tips for Smooth Entry
7Check passport validity well in advance
8Apply for visa early if needed
9Have documents accessible on arrival
10Be honest with immigration officers
11Keep copies of all documents
Iceland welcomes visitors warmly. With proper preparation, entry is straightforward. When in doubt, check official sources or contact an Icelandic embassy.
