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Iceland visas

Iceland visa on arrival

Iceland's Schengen rules allow visas at the border only in exceptional cases. This is not a routine way to arrange a holiday.

Ways to get a Iceland visa on arrival

  1. Exceptional short-stay visa at the border

    Visa on arrival

    Travellers who prove they could not apply in advance for unforeseeable and compelling reasons and meet the normal visa criteria.

    Stay
    Up to 15 days.
    Valid for
    Up to 15 days.
    Entries
    Single entry.
    1. Present proof of the exceptional circumstances at the border.
    2. Meet the regular criteria for a Schengen visa.

Who needs it

A traveller who needs a visa and could not apply in advance because of unforeseeable, urgent and compelling reasons may qualify.

How to apply

  1. Bring proof of the unforeseeable and compelling reason that prevented an advance application.
  2. Request a visa at the border and meet the normal Schengen visa criteria.

What to bring

  • Proof explaining why an advance application was impossible.
  • Documents needed to meet the regular Schengen visa criteria.

Good to know

  • The reasons must be unforeseeable and compelling.
  • If consultation with other Schengen authorities is normally required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian, national interest or international obligation cases.
  • An airline may refuse boarding if you do not already have the required visa.
  • Separate rules can apply to qualifying family members of European single market citizens.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Iceland?

A traveller who needs a visa and could not apply in advance because of unforeseeable, urgent and compelling reasons may qualify.

How long can I stay on a Iceland visa on arrival?

Up to 15 days for an exceptional border-issued Schengen visa.

How long is a Iceland visa on arrival valid?

Up to 15 days. Entries: Single entry..

What documents do I need for a Iceland visa on arrival?

Proof explaining why an advance application was impossible.; Documents needed to meet the regular Schengen visa criteria..

How do I apply for a Iceland visa on arrival?

1. 1. Bring proof of the unforeseeable and compelling reason that prevented an advance application. 2. 2. Request a visa at the border and meet the normal Schengen visa criteria.

What rules do I have to follow on a Iceland visa on arrival?

The reasons must be unforeseeable and compelling. If consultation with other Schengen authorities is normally required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian, national interest or international obligation cases.

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival for Iceland?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Iceland visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a visa on arrival for Iceland be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Iceland visa on arrival rules?

On Iceland's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my visa on arrival once I am in Iceland?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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