Frequently Asked Questions…
Visas
ETIAS UPDATE (Updated: Feb 2025)
ETIAS – currently not yet in operation – https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en will soon be required. No date has been set.
For all Schengen VISA questions contact the Embassy’s VISA Section visa.washington@utn.is.
See the Icelandic Embassy website for latest definitive information. https://www.government.is/diplomatic-missions/embassy-of-iceland-in-washington-d.c/
Do American Citizens need a visa to visit Iceland?
US Citizens do not require a visa to enter Iceland as tourists for a stay of fewer than 90 days. The total stay within the Schengen area must not exceed 90 days in any period of 180 days. Please note: that US Citizens must have a passport that is valid for 3 months beyond their intended stay in Iceland.
When traveling with a minor it is recommended to have power of attorney from legal guardian/s who are not traveling with the minor.
If I need a visa, how to I apply?
Some third-party nationals living in the United States require a Schengen visa to enter Iceland and the Schengen Area. The majority of applicants here in the United States are citizens of India, Pakistan, China, and Russia – but many other nationalities do need a Schengen VISA. See: https://island.is/en/do-you-need-a-visa
All Schengen VISA inquiries you get to the Embassy‘s VISA Section, visa.washington@utn.is
VFS Global – a recommended partner – operates in seven locations for Iceland in the United States in DC, New York, Chicago, Miami, San Fransisco, Los Angeles, and Houston. https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/isl
Should I apply for a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa allows free travel through its 27 member nations. Requirements differ based on which one’s nationality. Search the Iceland’s Directorate of Immigration website for information about your country. All Schengen VISA inquiries you get to the Embassy‘s VISA Section, visa.washington@utn.is
Icelandic Passports
How do I renew my Icelandic passport?
While in the United States, Icelandic passport holders may renew their passport at the Icelandic Embassy in Washington, DC or the New York Consulate.
What if I lost my passport or it has expired?
For Icelanders living or staying in the US who hold an expired passport or who have lost their passport. Contact the nearest consulate immediately.
Voting by Absentee Ballots in local, national, or presidential elections
Can I cast an absentee ballot?
Icelandic citizens living outside of Iceland who have already registered to vote, may receive a ballot for local, national, and presidential elections from their nearest consulate. All ballots must be mailed back to Iceland on time in order to be counted.
Immigrating to Iceland
How does one apply for residence in Iceland?
To begin this process, see the Immigration and Visa page on Íslands.is to begin the appropriate paperwork for your situation.
Visiting Iceland
This section will forever be incomplete and can not hope to cover the vast array natural wonders to experience – natural or cultural. If you have a suggestion, please submit via our contact form.
What to do in Iceland
What should I do on a short trip or long weekend?
Golden Circle, https://www.iceland.org/golden-circle
What should I do on an extended visit?
How do I find information on current events and festivals?
Grapevine Events, https://events.grapevine.is
How do I get from the airport in Keflavík to Reykjavik?
How do I get from the airport in Keflavík to Akureyri?
Visit Akureyri, https://www.visitakureyri.is/en/plan-your-visit/transport
Mr Einar Steinsson, Honorary Consul, Chicago, IL
United States
(+1) (773) 489 4621