Complete Guide to Iceland Visas : Application Process, Requirements, and More
An Iceland visa is a permission stamped or affixed in your passport, allowing you to enter Iceland for a limited period. Since Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, the visa regulations align with those of other Schengen countries.
Is Iceland Part of the Schengen Area?
Yes, Iceland has been a member of the Schengen Area since it signed the Schengen Agreement on December 19, 1996. The country began implementing this agreement on March 25, 2001.
Do I Need a Visa for Iceland?
If you plan to stay in Iceland for up to 90 days within a six-month period, you may need an Iceland Schengen visa, especially if you’re from a country without a visa facilitation agreement with Schengen.
Types of Iceland Visas
The type of visa you require depends on your purpose for traveling to Iceland. Below are the primary categories of available visas :
- Iceland Transit Visa : For travelers transiting through Iceland to a non-Schengen country.
- Iceland Tourist and Visitor Visa : For short stays up to 90 days, allowing travel throughout the Schengen Area.
- Iceland Business Visa : For business-related activities, such as attending meetings or conferences.
- Iceland Cultural, Sports, and Religious Event Visa.
- Iceland Medical Treatment Visa.
- Iceland Long Stay Visa : For extended stays over 90 days.
- Iceland Digital Nomad Visa : For remote workers wishing to reside temporarily in Iceland.
Iceland Visa Application Process
If you require a Schengen visa, follow these steps:
- Determine When to Apply :
– Earliest: Six months before your trip.
– Latest: Two weeks prior.
– It is advisable to apply at least three weeks prior to your trip.
- Where to Apply : Iceland has outsourced visa processing to other Schengen embassies and consulates. Apply through the embassy of the Schengen country where you will spend the most time or enter first if equal days are planned across multiple countries.
- Fill in the Visa Application Form : Include personal details, travel purpose, intended dates of arrival, and financial coverage.
- Collect Required Documents : Ensure that all documents meet Schengen criteria.
- Schedule a Visa Appointment : Appointments are mandatory; check if you can book online or need to visit in person.
- Attend the Visa Interview : Arrive on time, dress appropriately, and answer questions clearly. Submit your documents during this meeting.
- Pay the Visa Fee : The fee for a short-stay visa is €90 for adults, €45 for children under 12, and free for those under six. Long-stay visas cost around €56.
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Processing Time for Iceland Schengen Visa
Most applications are processed within 15 working days, but this may vary by country.
What If My Visa Is Rejected?
If your Iceland visa is denied, you can either appeal the decision with a strong justification or reapply after correcting previous mistakes.
Can My Iceland Visa Be Revoked?
Yes, your visa can be revoked if you no longer meet the issuance conditions.
Duration of Stay with a Valid Visa
Your visa’s validity, duration of stay, and number of entries will be specified on the visa sticker in your passport. Generally, a short-stay visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within a six-month period. Note that the validity period and duration of stay are not the same; the validity indicates the timeframe in which you can enter.
Extending Your Iceland Visa
Extensions are allowed only in specific circumstances, such as humanitarian reasons or force majeure.
Non-Schengen Countries Accessible with an Iceland Visa
A valid Iceland short-stay visa permits travel to other Schengen states and certain non-Schengen countries, including :
– Albania
– Turkey
– Montenegro
– Colombia
– Georgia
Note : You cannot enter these countries if your visa indicates “LTV” (Limited Territorial Validity).
What if I require a stay exceeding 90 days?
If you require a stay beyond 90 days, you can apply for an Iceland long-stay visa, which permits a maximum of 180 days. Long-stay visa holders cannot work in Iceland.
Eligibility for an Iceland Long-Stay Visa
You can apply if you meet specific criteria, such as :
– Being a relative of someone residing in Iceland.
– Needing to stay for court appearances.
– Being in Iceland for a legitimate purpose without requiring a work permit.
Application Process for a Long-Stay Visa
- Check Eligibility : Ensure your circumstances warrant a long-stay application.
- Fill in the Application Form : Similar to the short-stay visa process.
- Pay the Fee : The fee for a long-stay visa is €80.
- Submit Required Documents : Same as for the initial visa application.
Timing for Long-Stay Visa Application
Apply at least 14 days before your current visa or visa-free stay expires to avoid delays.
Processing Time for Long-Stay Visa
Typically, processing takes around 14 days after submitting all required documents.
Reasons for Denial of Long-Stay Visa
Applications may be rejected for reasons such as :
– Failing to meet requirements.
– Being perceived as a public security threat.
– Providing false information.
This guide outlines the essentials for obtaining an Iceland visa, whether for short visits or longer stays, ensuring you have the necessary information for a smooth application process.
