Iceland Visa: Iceland, a member of the Schengen Area, requires a visa for non-European citizens planning to stay for more than 90 days or for short-term visits if they come from a country without a visa waiver program. The application process includes submitting required documents, paying a fee, and attending an interview at the Icelandic embassy or consulate. The visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It’s essential to apply well in advance and ensure all documents are in order to avoid delays.
Table of Contents
Important informations
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Iceland is part of Schengen Area | Yes, Iceland is a member of the Schengen Area since 1996. |
| Visa requirement for Iceland | If you need to stay in Iceland for up to 90 days within a six-month period, you may need to apply for an Iceland Schengen visa. |
| Types of visas for Iceland | There are several types of visas for Iceland, including Transit, Tourist and Visitor, Business, Cultural, Sports and Religious event, Medical Treatment, Long Stay, and Digital Nomad visas. |
| Application process for an Iceland Schengen Visa | The application process includes finding out when to apply, checking where to apply, filing the application form, collecting required documents, scheduling a visa appointment, attending the interview, and paying the visa fee. |
| Processing time for an Iceland Schengen Visa | The processing time for an Iceland Schengen Visa application is up to 15 working days. |
| Rejected Iceland Schengen Visa | If your Iceland Schengen Visa is rejected, you can appeal or reapply with corrected mistakes. |
| Revoked Iceland Schengen Visa | Your Iceland Schengen Visa can be revoked if you no longer meet the conditions for issuing the visa. |
| Countries you can visit with an Iceland Visa | You can visit several non-Schengen countries with a valid Iceland visa, including Albania, Antigua and Barbuda, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Georgia, Gibraltar, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania, Sao Tome and Principe, Serbia, and Turkey. |
| Long-stay visa for Iceland | If you want to remain in Iceland beyond 90 days and the purpose of your stay does not conform to any of the Iceland residence permit types, you can apply for an Iceland long-stay visa. |
Is Iceland part of Schengen Area?
Iceland is not a member of the Schengen Area, despite being part of the European Economic Area (EEA) and having close ties with European countries. The Schengen Agreement allows for the free movement of people between its member states without border controls. While Icelandic citizens can travel to Schengen countries without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, the same privilege does not extend to Schengen Area residents traveling to Iceland. Iceland maintains its own border controls to manage entry and exit from the country.
Do I Need a Visa for Iceland?
Iceland is a part of the Schengen Area, which allows for free movement between member countries. However, not all nationalities are exempt from the requirement to obtain a Schengen Visa for travel to Iceland. To determine if you need a visa for Iceland, consult the Schengen Visa Code list of exempt nationalities. If your country is not on the list, you will need to apply for a Schengen Visa at the Icelandic embassy or consulate in your home country. The application process includes submitting required documents, paying a fee, and attending an interview. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date. Please note that the visa allows for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area.
What Types of Visas for Iceland Can I Apply For?
Iceland offers various types of visas for different purposes and durations. The Schengen Visa is the most common, allowing tourists, business travelers, and families to visit Iceland for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer stays, work, study, or residence, other visas are required. The Work Permit Visa is for those offered a job in Iceland, while the Student Visa is for those enrolled in a recognized educational institution. The Residence Permit is for those planning to live and work in Iceland permanently. Each visa type has specific requirements and application procedures, so it’s essential to research thoroughly before applying. Consult the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration website for detailed information and application forms.
Iceland Visa Application
Iceland visa applications are processed by the Directorate of Immigration in Reykjavik. Applicants must meet specific requirements, including having a valid travel document, proof of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay, and a return or onward ticket. The application process involves submitting an online form, paying the application fee, and providing supporting documents. Processing times can vary, and applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance of their intended travel date. Decisions on visa applications are made based on the applicant’s ties to their home country, reasons for travel, and other relevant factors. Applicants may be required to attend an interview or provide additional information. It is essential to carefully prepare and submit all required documents to increase the chances of a successful application.
Iceland Schengen Visa Application Processing Time
Iceland’s Schengen Visa processing time can vary depending on the individual application and the embassy or consulate processing it. Applicants are advised to submit their applications well in advance of their intended travel date, as processing times can range from two weeks to two months or more. Factors influencing processing times include the volume of applications, the completeness and accuracy of the application, and the need for further documentation or interviews. It is recommended to check the specific processing time with the Icelandic embassy or consulate in your country or region. Applicants should also be aware that delays may occur due to unforeseen circumstances or peak travel seasons.
What If My Iceland Schengen Visa Is Rejected?
If your Iceland Schengen Visa application is rejected, you will receive a reason in writing from the embassy or consulate. Reasons for rejection may include incomplete or incorrect application forms, missing or insufficient supporting documents, or not meeting the eligibility requirements. It is important to carefully review the reasons given and address any issues before reapplying. If you believe there has been a mistake or misunderstanding, you can contact the embassy or consulate to request an explanation or appeal the decision. Keep in mind that the application process can be lengthy and costly, so it is best to ensure that all required documents are submitted correctly the first time to increase your chances of a successful application. If you are unable to travel to Iceland due to a rejected visa, you may be able to apply for a visa to another Schengen country instead, depending on the reasons for the rejection and the specific visa requirements of that country.
Can My Iceland Schengen Visa Be Revoked?
A Schengen Visa for Iceland can be revoked if it was obtained through false representations or the provision of false information. Additionally, if the visa holder fails to comply with the conditions of entry or stays beyond the authorized duration, the visa may be revoked. In such cases, the Icelandic authorities may initiate revocation proceedings, which could result in the visa holder being required to leave the Schengen Area immediately. It is essential for visa holders to adhere to the terms of their visa and maintain accurate documentation to avoid any potential issues with visa revocation.
How Long Can I Stay in Iceland Valid Visa?
Iceland’s visa regulations depend on the type and length of your stay. For tourists, the Standard Visitor Visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. Business travelers may be granted a longer duration, up to six months, with a Business Visitor Visa. Students and workers require specific visas, valid for the duration of their studies or employment contracts. Overstaying a visa is against the law and may result in penalties, including fines and deportation. Always check the expiration date on your visa and ensure you apply for extensions or renewals in a timely manner to avoid any potential issues.
Can I Extend my Iceland Schengen Visa?
Iceland Schengen Visas, like other Schengen visas, are short-term permits allowing visitors to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you find yourself needing to extend your stay beyond this limit due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or force majeure, it is possible to apply for an extension.
To apply for an extension, you must contact the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration as soon as possible before your current visa expires. You will need to provide a valid reason for the extension, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, and a valid travel health insurance policy. The application process may include an interview and the submission of additional documents.
It is important to note that extending a Schengen Visa does not guarantee that you will be granted an additional 90 days. The decision is ultimately up to the discretion of the Icelandic authorities. If your application is denied, you will need to leave the Schengen Area and apply for a new visa from your home country or a consulate outside of the Schengen Area.
Non-Schengen Countries You Can Visit With an Iceland Visa
Iceland is a part of the European Economic Area (EEA) but not a member of the Schengen Area. However, citizens of certain non-Schengen countries can still visit Iceland with an Icelandic visa. These countries include those in the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) such as Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, as well as some other specific countries like Andorra, Monaco, and San Marino. The Icelandic Directorate of Immigration grants these visas based on the individual’s purpose of visit, length of stay, and ties to their home country. Non-Schengen visitors can enjoy Iceland’s unique attractions, including the Blue Lagoon, the Northern Lights, and the Golden Circle, for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. It is essential to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality before planning your trip to Iceland.
What if I Have to Stay in Iceland for Longer than 90 days?
If you find yourself needing to stay in Iceland for more than the initial 90-day Schengen visa duration, there are a few options to consider. First, you may be able to apply for a long-term residence permit if you have a valid reason, such as employment, education, or family ties. The application process can be lengthy and requires documentation, so it’s essential to begin the process well before your visa expires. Another option is to leave the Schengen area for a short period and then return, effectively resetting the 90-day clock. However, this method should not be used excessively, as it may raise suspicions with border control officials. Lastly, if you are unable to leave Iceland due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical emergency, you may be able to apply for an extension of your visa. It’s important to note that extensions are not guaranteed and require compelling reasons. Consult with the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration for the most accurate and up-to-date information on your specific situation.
Quick facts about Iceland
Iceland, located at the North Atlantic, is Europe’s most sparsely populated country with a population of around 364,000. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, including volcanoes, hot springs, glaciers, and waterfalls. Reykjavik, the capital city, is home to around two-thirds of the population. Iceland’s currency is the Icelandic króna. The country is famous for its unique cultural heritage, with a rich history in literature, music, and art. Iceland is also a world leader in renewable energy, with geothermal and hydroelectric power providing nearly 100% of its electricity. The country’s economy is primarily based on fishing, tourism, and aluminum smelting. Iceland is a member of the European Economic Area and the Schengen Area, but it is not part of the European Union.
Eligible countries
- Countries requiring a Schengen visa for Iceland: Passport holders of countries not having a visa facilitation agreement with Schengen
- Types of Iceland visas: Iceland Transit Visa, Iceland Tourist and Visitor Visa, Iceland Business Visa, Iceland Cultural, Sports and Religious event visa, Iceland Medical Treatment Visa, Iceland Long Stay Visa, Iceland Digital Nomad Visa
- Application process for an Iceland visa: Find out when to apply, check where to apply, file the application form, collect required documents, schedule a visa appointment, attend the visa interview, pay the visa fee
- Non-Schengen countries that can be visited with an Iceland visa: Albania, Antigua and Barbuda, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Georgia, Gibraltar, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania, Sao Tome and Principe, Serbia, Turkey
Summary
I. Iceland is a member of the Schengen Area and requires a visa for stays up to 90 days for certain passport holders.
II. Types of visas include transit, tourist, business, cultural, medical treatment, long stay, and digital nomad visas.
III. Application process includes determining when to apply, where to apply, filling out the form, collecting documents, scheduling an appointment, attending the interview, and paying the fee.
IV. Application processing time is up to 15 working days.
V. A rejected visa can be appealed or a new application can be made with corrected mistakes.
VI. A visa can be revoked if the holder no longer meets the conditions for issuance.
VII. Visa validity and duration of stay are indicated on the visa sticker in the passport.
VIII. Iceland visas allow travel to other Schengen countries and some non-Schengen countries.
IX. Long-stay visas permit stays up to 180 days and can be applied for by those with strong reasons to remain or who belong to certain groups.
X. Quick facts about Iceland include its location in the North Atlantic, population of 348,580, highly developed economy, and membership in various international organizations.