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Visiting Iceland

Last verified: 2 min read

Entry requirements, visa information, and travel guide for Iceland

Quick Facts

Iceland is a Schengen Area member. Whether you need ETIAS, a Schengen Visa, or nothing at all depends on your nationality.

Capital Reykjavik
Currency ISK
Schengen Yes
Languages Icelandic

About Iceland

Iceland is a land of dramatic contrasts, where volcanic landscapes, erupting geysers, massive glaciers, and thundering waterfalls exist side by side. The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, the Golden Circle route, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights (September to April) or the midnight sun (June to July) make it one of Europe's most unique destinations.

With a population of just under 400,000, Iceland feels refreshingly uncrowded outside Reykjavik. The country is expensive compared to mainland Europe, but its otherworldly scenery -- from black sand beaches to steaming lava fields -- offers experiences found nowhere else on Earth. Whale watching from Husavik and hiking on glaciers are among the many adventure activities available.

Capital Reykjavik
Currency ISK
Population 387,000
Languages Icelandic

Entry Requirements for Iceland

  • EU/EEA citizens Travel freely with passport or national ID. No visa or ETIAS needed.
  • Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, and others) currency}).
  • Visa-required nationals currency}). Submit your application at the embassy of your primary destination.

Currency & Money in Iceland

Iceland uses the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Iceland is extremely card-friendly — you can pay by card almost everywhere, including remote gas stations and small cafés. Carrying cash is rarely necessary. ATMs are available in Reykjavik and larger towns. Tipping is not expected in Iceland as service charges are included.

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Stay Connected in Iceland

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Plan Your Visit to Iceland

ETIAS Guide

New travel authorization for Europe

Schengen Visa

For visa-required nationals

90/180 Calculator

Track your allowed stay

Travel Insurance

Required for visa applications

Cities in Iceland

Akureyri Husavik Reykjavik Vik

Travel Questions about Iceland

Do I need ETIAS to visit Iceland?
If you're from an ETIAS-eligible country (like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.), you will need ETIAS to visit Iceland starting Q4 2026. ETIAS costs €20 and is valid for 3 years.
Is Iceland part of the Schengen Area?
Yes. Iceland has been a Schengen Area member since 2001 through its EFTA/EEA membership. Note that Iceland is NOT an EU member.
How long can I stay in Iceland without a visa?
Visitors from visa-exempt countries can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Iceland and the entire Schengen Area combined.
Do I need a visa for Iceland?
It depends on your nationality. Citizens from 59 countries (including US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) don't need a visa for short stays. Others need a Schengen visa.
What currency does Iceland use?
Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK). As Iceland is not an EU member, it does not use the Euro.

Prepare for Your Trip to Iceland

Valid passport (check requirements for your nationality)
Visa or ETIAS (depends on your nationality)
Travel insurance Get covered
eSIM for mobile data in Europe Get Saily
VPN for public WiFi security Get NordVPN

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