Iceland Travel Advice

Iceland is a Nordic island nation known for its dramatic landscapes, including volcanoes, glaciers, and geysers, fueled by its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

With a small population centered around its capital, Reykjavík, Iceland boasts a rich cultural heritage rooted in Norse mythology and a strong modern arts scene. Its economy relies on tourism, fishing, and renewable geothermal energy, making it a leader in sustainability and environmental conservation.

Iceland is a very peaceful nation, known for its strong commitment to diplomacy and conflict resolution on the international stage. It consistently ranks among the top countries in global peace indexes, largely due to its low crime rates, lack of military forces, and stable political environment. Iceland has a tradition of prioritizing peaceful relations and actively supports international efforts in human rights, environmental protection, and sustainable development.

Visiting Iceland FAQs

Hire a bodyguard in Iceland

If you are interested in hiring a bodyguard for your travel to Iceland, please contact our team.

Key Information for Iceland

Iceland

Emergency Services

All emergency services: 112

Note: Most emergency services staff will speak English.

Iceland

Country Overview

Current Threat Level: Low

Capital City: Reykjavik
Official State Language(s): Icelandic
Official State Religion(s): Christianity (Church of Iceland)
State Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Current Capital Time:

How safe is Iceland?

Iceland is considered one of the safest countries in the world, consistently ranking highly on the Global Peace Index due to its low crime rate, absence of a standing military, and stable political environment. The country relies on the Icelandic Coast Guard for defense and search-and-rescue operations, as well as close cooperation with NATO for any broader security concerns.

While Iceland has a low incidence of violent crime, there is ongoing attention to cyber security threats, given the country's reliance on digital infrastructure. Additionally, Iceland is proactive in monitoring and managing risks related to natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, due to its geologically active location. The government regularly updates its emergency preparedness protocols to ensure the safety and security of its residents and visitors.

Please note

Iceland Volcanic Threat

Iceland’s volcanic risk is high due to its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, making it one of the most volcanically active areas globally, with over 30 active systems. Eruptions, such as those from Eyjafjallajökull and Katla, can cause significant disruption, especially when they occur under glaciers, leading to explosive floods known as jökulhlaups.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) monitors volcanic activity closely, using advanced technology to provide real-time updates and warnings. Public preparedness programs are well-established, helping to minimize the impact of eruptions through effective evacuation procedures and safety measures.

FAQs for visiting Iceland

You can find the following Embassies in Iceland for the UK and US:

British Embassy Reykjavik
Laufásvegur 31,
101 Reykjavík,
Iceland
Telephone: +354 550 5100
Email: [email protected]

U.S. Embassy Reykjavik
Laufásvegur 21,
101 Reykjavik,
Iceland
Telephone: +354 595 2200
Emergency telephone: +354 595 2248
Email: [email protected]

Visa requirements for Iceland depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Here are the general guidelines:

Schengen Area Visitors
As a member of the Schengen Area, Iceland allows citizens from other Schengen countries to enter without needing a visa. These visitors can stay in Iceland for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, visa-free. This arrangement also extends to both UK and US passport holders under the Schengen visa waiver program.

European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) Citizens
Citizens of EU/EEA countries do not need a visa to visit, work, or study in Iceland. They can enter with a valid passport or national ID card and stay indefinitely.

Visa-Exempt Countries
Citizens from certain countries outside the EU/EEA, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and several others, can enter Iceland without a visa for tourism or business purposes. These travelers can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period as part of the Schengen Area's visa-exemption rules.

Visa-Required Countries
Travelers from countries that do not have a visa-free agreement with Iceland will need to apply for a Schengen visa before their visit. This visa allows for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) for purposes such as tourism, business, or family visits. Applications should be submitted at the Icelandic embassy or consulate in the traveler’s country of residence, or at the embassy of another Schengen country if Iceland lacks representation.

For any stays longer than 90 days or for purposes like work or study, a residence permit may be required, regardless of nationality. Always check specific requirements with an Icelandic consulate or embassy, as regulations may vary and change over time.

Iceland has never experienced any terrorist incidents.

It is advised that visitors to Andorra are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. It is further recommended that most travellers also get Tetanus and Hepatitis A vaccinations. You should check with your local health professional prior to your departure, if you are unsure.

You are required to pay for all medical treatment in Andorra and this is often demanded before treatment occurs. Medical costs can be expensive, so you should ensure that you purchase adequate travel insurance. Services in the main cities tend to be good and resourceful, however rural areas may vary.

Traveling around Iceland is generally straightforward, but there are a few requirements and considerations to keep in mind:

Transport Options: Reykjavík has a reliable public bus system called Strætó, which connects the capital with nearby towns and villages. Passes and single tickets are available, and an app provides real-time route information. During the summer months, long-distance buses connect Reykjavík with various tourist destinations around Iceland. These buses are less frequent in the winter.

Taxis: Available in Reykjavík and at major airports, taxis can be costly but are convenient for short trips. Most can be hailed on the street or booked by phone.

Driving Requirements: If you plan to drive, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, although not always required for EU license holders. Most driving licences, including UK or other EU and American driving licences, can be used for a period of time in Iceland. Ensure your insurance covers driving in Iceland.

Car rental:If you are renting a car, be aware that some companies may limit the class of roads vehicles are allowed to drive on. Many roads that are outside the capital, Reykjavík, become impassable during the winter months, and travellers should take extreme caution if driving during that time. Winter tyres are required between November and April, exact dates vary annually.

When driving in the country, the distances between towns can be far with the narrow winding roads, meaning that speed limits are low. Journeys will often take longer than expected, as the conditions can be hazardous. You should allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination to reduce the risk of accidents.

You are required to keep your vehicle headlights on at all times, regardless of the conditions outside. It is Icelandic law to wear a seatbelt when travelling, and the driver is responsible for children under the age of 15. Regulations on drink-driving are exceptionally strict, and the threshold is very low. It is advised that you do not consume any alcohol if you plan to operate a vehicle.

How to find us

Our closest office

In 2017, Intelligent Protection opened an office in Paris, to better serve our clients across Western Europe.

Intelligent Protection International - France
12-14, Rond-Point des Champs-Elysées,
75008, Paris,
France
Telephone: +33 1 82 888340 or +33 1 53 531411
Email: [email protected]

Please note

Disclaimer

You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Iceland is provided for information only.

Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.