Iceland: Travel Requirements, Health, and Medical Insurance
Iceland is not part of the European Union but is part of the Schengen Area, so the short-stay visa requirement depends on each traveler's passport rather than their country of residence. The official language is Icelandic, although English is spoken fluently throughout most of the country, even in rural areas.
Icelandic healthcare is of a high standard, but rates for non-residents can be steep, especially if transport is required from remote areas such as glaciers or interior roads. The emergency number is 112, with an official app of the same name that allows real-time location sharing with rescue services.
Visa and health for travelers
Visa: Iceland belongs to the Schengen Area even though it is not a member of the European Union; the short-stay visa requirement depends on the traveler's passport.
Health & travel insurance: Healthcare is high quality but costly for non-residents; insurance that includes medical evacuation is recommended, useful in remote glacier areas and on rural roads.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Passport holders who require a Schengen visa must apply before traveling, with proof of flight booking, accommodation, and travel insurance with minimum medical coverage of EUR 30,000. Nationalities exempt from a visa may stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period, counting time spent throughout the entire Schengen Area.
- Passport valid for at least 3 months after the departure date.
- Proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for the stay.
- Travel insurance with the minimum coverage if your nationality requires a visa.
Health, Hospitals, and Travel Insurance
Outside Reykjavik, the hospital network is limited, and some areas of the interior are several hours from the nearest medical center, so those doing road trips or glacier excursions often need medical evacuation in the event of an accident.
Assist-365 covers hospitalization, COVID-19, and 24-hour medical assistance in Iceland, including medical evacuation; code MEDALLOADV2023 gives a discount when getting a quote for the plan.
Transportation and Currency
The currency is the Icelandic krona (ISK); cards are accepted almost everywhere, even at public restrooms or vending machines, so carrying cash is rarely necessary. The Ring Road connects most tourist spots, but several interior routes (F-roads) close during winter.
When to Travel
Summer (June to August) offers days with almost no darkness and access to all roads, ideal for exploring the interior. Winter draws visitors with the chance to see the Northern Lights, although weather can close roads and limit excursions without much notice.
Travel checklist for Iceland
Quick list based on this guide's real data (not generic) before traveling to Iceland.
- Check the visa requirement for Iceland based on your passport: Iceland belongs to the Schengen Area even though it is not a member of the European Union; the short-stay visa requirement depends on the traveler's passport.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the entry date
- Travel medical insurance arranged, keeping this in mind: Healthcare is high quality but costly for non-residents; insurance that includes medical evacuation is recommended, useful in remote glacier areas and on rural roads.
- Save Iceland's emergency number: 112, along with your insurer's contact
- Cash or a no-fee card in Corona islandesa (ISK)
- Physical and digital copies of passport, insurance and bookings
- Required or recommended vaccines up to date for the region
- eSIM or international data plan active on arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iceland part of the European Union?
No. Iceland is outside the EU but within the Schengen Area, so short-stay visa rules are the same as in other Schengen countries.
What is the emergency number in Iceland?
112, with an official app of the same name that lets you send your GPS location to rescue services.
Is healthcare expensive for tourists in Iceland?
It can be, especially if transport is needed from remote areas; travel insurance with medical evacuation avoids high costs.
What currency is used in Iceland?
The Icelandic krona (ISK); cards are accepted almost anywhere in the country.
