If you are planning a trip to Iceland, it is important to know the necessary requirements to be able to enjoy this wonderful land of ice and fire. Iceland is a fascinating country, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich culture.

In this guide, we will provide you with updated information on the requirements for traveling to Iceland. From passport or ID card to visas and other important aspects, here you will find everything you need to know for your adventure on this Nordic island.

Travel to Iceland: Passport or ID Card?

To travel to Iceland from Spain, you will need to carry your valid passport or ID card. Below, we explain the requirements for travelers from the European Union (EU) and travelers from areas outside the EU.

Icelandic passport

Travelers from the EU

If you are a citizen of a country belonging to the European Union, you can travel to Iceland using your valid passport or ID card. No visa or residence permit is required for tourist stays or short-term stays. However, it is important to note that Iceland is not part of the Schengen area, so you must carry your passport or ID card to avoid any inconvenience during the trip.

Travelers from areas outside the EU

Travelers from areas outside the European Union must present their valid passport upon entering Iceland. Depending on your nationality and country of origin, you may need to obtain a tourist visa before traveling. It is important to check the visa requirements corresponding to your country before planning your trip to Iceland. Let’s learn a little more about visas for traveling to Iceland.

Visas for Traveling to Iceland

A visa is an official document issued by the country you want to travel to authorize the traveler’s entry. Normally, it is a special sheet that is attached to your passport. The thing is, not all countries require it for everyone. In the specific case at hand, Iceland, the following distinction is usually made:

  • Travelers from the European Union

If you are a citizen of an EU member country, you will not need to obtain a visa before traveling to Iceland. You can enter and stay in the country for a period of up to 90 days within a 180-day period without needing a visa.

  • Rest of the Countries

Travelers from countries not belonging to the European Union should check the corresponding visa requirements. You may need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling to Iceland, depending on your nationality and length of stay.

Well, this is where it gets a bit more complicated because there are many. So here I am going to leave you the link with the list of countries that require a visa to travel to Iceland. As I know many of you read me from Latin America, the United States, and Canada, I will inform you that some countries from that region do not need a visa: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Honduras, Panama, Peru, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

Length of Stay in Iceland: Tourism

As a tourist, you can stay in Iceland for a maximum period of 90 days within a 180-day period. This length of stay applies to both travelers from the European Union and travelers from non-EU countries. It is important to respect this time limit and make sure to leave the country before your authorized stay period expires.

Visa Requirements for Traveling to Iceland

Visa requirements for traveling to Iceland vary depending on your country of origin. For travelers from non-European Union countries, it is necessary to obtain a tourist visa before traveling. Requirements may include submitting a visa application, paying a fee, presenting supporting documents, and demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your stay in Iceland.

visa for traveling to Iceland

For those who do need a visa, it is necessary to provide the following documents to the Icelandic authorities:

  • Duly filled Application Form.
  • A passport-size photograph (35x45mm).
  • Valid passport with an expiration date at least three times after the date of return from Iceland. That is, if you travel on July 20, 2023, the passport must, at a minimum, expire on October 20, 2023.
  • Proof of financial sufficiency, such as bank account balance, salary, savings, or the relation of income earned in the fiscal year.
  • Proof of the traveler’s relationship with their country of origin, such as an employment contract, proof of enrollment in a university, among others.
  • Medical insurance covering up to €30,000.
  • Documents proving the purpose of the trip, such as accommodation reservations, visit itineraries, and round-trip flights.

It is important to highlight that visa requirements may be subject to changes and it is necessary to verify the most up-to-date information before your trip. It is recommended to contact the Icelandic embassy or consulate in your country to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on visa requirements.

Documentation for Traveling to Iceland

When traveling to Iceland, it is important to carry with you the necessary documentation to ensure a hassle-free trip. Below, we explain the key aspects you should consider:

Vaccinations

In general, no specific vaccines are required to enter Iceland from Spain. However, it is advisable to be up-to-date with common vaccines before any international trip. We suggest consulting your doctor or a vaccination center for updated information on recommended vaccines for traveling to Iceland.

Health Insurance or European Health Insurance Card

It is highly recommended to have adequate health insurance covering any medical eventuality during your stay in Iceland. If you are a citizen of the European Union, make sure to carry with you the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card gives you access to medical care in case of emergencies or medical needs during your trip. Make sure to request it in advance in your home country.

For citizens outside the European Union, it is advisable to obtain health insurance that provides adequate medical coverage during your stay in Iceland. Make sure to acquire insurance that covers any medical eventuality, including emergencies, medical consultations, and hospitalization.

medicines and flag of Iceland

It is important to highlight that medical services in Iceland can be expensive for non-European Union citizens. Therefore, having adequate health insurance will provide you with peace of mind and financial protection in case you need medical care during your trip.

Before contracting health insurance, verify that it covers medical expenses in Iceland and provides assistance in case of emergency. In addition to health insurance, it is also recommended to carry with you a list of emergency contacts, including the phone number of your insurance company and that of the embassy or consulate of your country in Iceland.

Driving License in Iceland

If you plan to rent a vehicle and drive in Iceland, you will need a valid driving license. If you are a citizen of an EU member country, your driving license issued in your home country is valid in Iceland. However, if you come from a country outside the European Union, you may need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your national driving license. Check the specific requirements before your trip.

Requirements for Traveling to Iceland

Some of the essential requirements for traveling to Iceland are:

  • Duly filled Application Form.
  • A passport-size photograph (35x45mm).
  • Valid passport with an expiration date at least three times after the date of return from Iceland.
  • Proof of financial sufficiency, such as bank account balance, salary, savings, or the relation of income earned in the fiscal year.
  • Proof of the traveler’s relationship with their country of origin, such as an employment contract, proof of enrollment at a university, among others.
  • Medical insurance covering up to €30,000.
  • Documents proving the purpose of the trip, such as accommodation reservations, visit itineraries, and round-trip flights.

Remember, these are general requirements and may vary depending on your country of origin and the purpose of the trip. It is important to check the most updated and specific requirements before your trip to Iceland. We recommend contacting the Icelandic embassy or consulate in your country to obtain accurate and up-to-date information on the necessary documents for traveling to Iceland.

We hope all this information has been useful to you. It is essential to clarify that we have collected all this data as of June 2023. Requirements may vary over time, therefore, it is also crucial that you check all this with official bodies and Icelandic authorities.

We recommend you visit all the tips for traveling to Iceland before embarking on your journey to the Land of Ice and Fire.

Safe travels!