ES 
EN 
WHAT I NEED TO TRAVEL TO ICELAND
~ Documents, Weather, and Packing ~
Planning a trip to Iceland? Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your journey, covering essential documents, weather expectations, and packing tips.
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen area.
Visa Requirements: Iceland is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens from many countries can enter visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days). However, starting October 12, 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., Australia, and the UK, will need to register in the new European Entry/Exit System (EES). This system requires biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans) and will track entries and exits across the Schengen Area.
Supporting Documents: If you're required to apply for a visa, you'll need:
Visa Requirements: Iceland is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens from many countries can enter visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days). However, starting October 12, 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., Australia, and the UK, will need to register in the new European Entry/Exit System (EES). This system requires biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans) and will track entries and exits across the Schengen Area.
Supporting Documents: If you're required to apply for a visa, you'll need:
- A completed visa application form
- Valid passport
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- Travel itinerary or accommodation booking
- Travel insurance
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Visa fee payment
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Weather Overview: Iceland's weather is highly variable, with rapid changes. Even in summer, temperatures can range from 5°C to 15°C. Winters are cold, with average temperatures around -1°C to 2°C.
Best Time to Visit:
- Summer (June to August): Milder temperatures, long daylight hours, and access to highland areas. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Winter (November to February): Short days and cold temperatures, but the best time to witness the Northern Lights.
- Shoulder Seasons (May and September): Fewer tourists, lower prices, and a chance to experience both seasons.
Packing Essentials
Clothing:
- Waterproof and windproof outer layers
- Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down)
- Thermal base layers
- Water-resistant hiking boots
- Warm gloves, hat, and scarf
- Swimwear for hot spring
Other Essentials:
- Daypack for excursions
- Reusable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink)
- Power adapter (Iceland uses the European standard plug)
- Useful Addresses, Phone Numbers and Links: EMBASSIES OF ICELAND around the world: http://www.iceland.is/iceland-abroad/embassies
VISA INFORMATION: http://www.utl.is/index.php/en/visas - TOURISM OFFICE IN ICELAND: The main tourist office in Reykjavík is located in the center. The address is: Aðalstræti 2101 Reykjavík - Tel: (+354) 590 15 50 Fax: (+354) 590 1551 E-mail:
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MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE : LandbúnaðarráðuneytiðMinistry of Agriculture - Solvholsgata 7150 Reykjavík Iceland - Tel: (+354) 545 9750 Fax: (+354) 552 1160 - E-mail:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.landbunadarraduneyti.is
Utanríkisráðuneytið - MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS: Raudararstígur 25150 ReykjavíkIslandia - Tel: (+354) 545 9900 Fax: (+354) 562 2373 - E-mail:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Página web: http://www.mfa.is
Customs Regulations
Duty-Free Allowances:
- Food: Up to 10 kg, excluding meat and dairy products from outside the European Economic Area.
- Alcohol: 1 liter of spirits, 0.75 liters of wine, and 3 liters of beer; or 3 liters of wine and 6 liters of beer; or 1 liter of spirits and 6 liters of beer.
- Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of other tobacco products.
Prohibited Imports:
- Uncooked meat and dairy products from outside the European Economic Area.
- Certain foodstuffs like meat products unless they have been boiled or canned.
Health & Safety
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Tap Water: Iceland's tap water is among the purest in the world, sourced from glaciers and groundwater. It's safe to drink directly from the tap.
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Healthcare: Iceland boasts a modern healthcare system. EU/EEA citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for necessary medical treatment.
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Safety: Iceland is one of the safest countries globally, with low crime rates and well-maintained infrastructure.
Important Note: These data are only informative. ICELAND s.r.o. (www.viajesislandia.com) is not responsible for the validity and updates of the information offered and translated. These data are published for informational purposes only and we cannot be responsible for their validity at all times. For current and official information on valid visas for Iceland, clients should contact direct official bodies in Iceland or in their country of origin. ICELAND s.r.o. cannot help you with these issues. This information was updated on 09.09.2025. ID-809
