Navigating Iceland Tourist Visa: Application, Documents & Fees

Planning a trip to Iceland starts with getting a Iceland tourist visa. This guide is here to help you navigate the application process smoothly, explaining each step clearly from figuring out the right visa to submitting your application.

Getting a tourist visa not only opens up the beautiful landscapes of Iceland for you to explore but also lets you travel across other European countries in the Schengen zone. 

An Iceland tourist visa for Indians is a type of Schengen visa that allows Indian passport holders to enter Iceland for leisure or tourism purposes. This visa permits a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen area. 

Step 1: Visa Type and Eligibility

First determine the type of visa you need, which is a Schengen tourist visa. Check your eligibility to apply, understand the required documents, the application timeline and the fees involved. Ensure your documents are in English or have them translated. You can find general information for Schengen visa applicants from India here.

Step 2: Start Your Application

Fill in your visa application online at the government website. After applying, print and sign the cover letter and prepare to submit supporting documents and biometrics at a Visa Application Centre. 

Step 3: Book an Appointment

Book an appointment at a VFS Global Visa Application Centre to give your biometric information (fingerprints and photo). Each family or group member must book individual appointments. After booking you will receive a confirmation email along with an appointment letter.

Step 4: Pay Your Fees

You need to pay the visa application fee at the time of your appointment at the Visa Application Centre. Ensure you have the fee ready for payment as per the current rates.

Step 5: Visit a Visa Application Centre

Attend your scheduled appointment at the designated Visa Application Centre to submit your completed visa application form and necessary documents in person. Read what to expect during your visit here.

Step 6: Track Your Application

Stay updated on the status of your visa application. You will receive an email when your decision is returned to the Visa Application Centre. You can also opt for SMS updates if available or track your visa application status online using the Reference Number on the invoice/receipt and your date of birth.

Step 7: Collect Your Passport

Once a decision is made you can collect your documents and passport from the Visa Application Centre. Ensure you bring the original ICR and a copy of your Government ID Proof. Third-party collection is only allowed for immediate family members or an authorized representative with proper documentation.

For an Iceland tourist visa, the photo requirements are very strict. Here are the photo requirements:

Size: 35mm x 45mm

Recent Photo: The photo must be recent, not more than 6 months old to ensure an accurate representation of the applicant’s current appearance.

Background: Plain, light-coloured background (white or off-white is preferred) with no shadows

Position: Head centred in the frame, facing forward, and covering 70-80% of the height of the photo (32-36mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head)

Expression: Neutral expression, both eyes open and mouth closed. No smiling, frowning or raised eyebrows

Eyes and Glasses:

Headgear: Only for religious reasons and must not cover any facial features.

It is essential that the photo meets all these criteria to avoid any delays or rejections in the visa application process.

To apply for an Iceland tourist visa in India, you need to go through the designated Visa Application Centers managed by VFS Global. Here are the centres in major Indian cities:

New Delhi

Mumbai

Chennai

Bangalore

Kolkata

Each of these centers will handle the visa submission and biometric collection. To start your application you need to:

Iceland tourist visa processing time is 15 calendar days from the date of the appointment at the Visa Application Centre. However this can vary depending on the VFS centre workload, time of year (peak season can be longer) and completeness of application.

Apply well in advance of your travel date, ideally 3 months before, to allow for any processing delays. This will make your travel planning smoother and all Iceland tourist visa requirements met within a reasonable time frame.

A Uniform Schengen Visa, issued by any Schengen state, allows travel across the entire Schengen area. If your main destination is within a specific Schengen state, you should apply for your visa through the embassy representing that state. While the validity of a Uniform Schengen Visa can extend up to 180 days, the allowed duration of stay is generally up to 90 days, with the exact period determined at the embassy's discretion. It's crucial to verify the validity and duration of stay on your visa sticker once approved.

Visa Extension Criteria

Visa extensions are possible under specific circumstances but cannot exceed 90 days within a 180-day period. Extensions may be granted if:

Application Process

Visa extension applications must be submitted in paper form. You can either drop the application at the Directorate of Immigration's office or send it by regular mail to:

Directorate of Immigration Dalvegur 18 201 Kópavogur Iceland

Ensure the application form is completed in full and signed.

For Indian citizens applying for tourist visas to Iceland, having valid travel medical insurance is a must. Here are the Iceland tourist visa requirements for the insurance:

Please check the details of the insurance coverage and make sure it meets the Schengen visa requirements. This will help in smooth visa processing and also gives you financial protection during your trip.

Getting your tourist visa is the first exciting step towards your Icelandic adventure. This guide aims to simplify the process, ensuring you understand each requirement and step thoroughly.

With careful preparation, you can look forward to a successful application. Iceland offers a stunning array of natural wonders and unique cultural experiences, all waiting for you once you have your visa. So, make sure to follow the guidelines, and soon you'll be on your way to an unforgettable journey in the land of fire and ice.

Enjoy your travels and the incredible experiences that Iceland has to offer!