Yes, Indian passport holders need a valid visa, specifically a Schengen visa, to travel to Iceland for short stays like tourism, business, family visits, or other approved activities for up to 90 days within 180 days.

Iceland does not offer visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry for Indian citizens.

The Iceland visa fees for Indians are, for Adults: €90, for Children (6-12 years): €45, and for Children under 6 years: Free of cost.

Your Schengen visa will indicate vital information related to your entry specifications, such as single or multiple entry, validity period, and stay duration. Here is a sample of how your visa will look like:

Iceland stands out among the Schengen countries as being the country with the lowest visa rejection rates. In 2023, only 2.2% of visa applications were rejected, making it an attractive destination for travellers seeking a higher chance of visa approval.

Tip: Although Iceland has a low rejection rate, it’s still crucial to submit a complete and well-prepared application to maximise your chances of approval.

The likelihood of obtaining a long-term Schengen visa for Iceland, valid for up to 5 years, varies by several key factors:

• Previous travel history: A positive history of complying with Schengen visa regulations, including timely departures and no overstays, significantly improves your chances.

• Clear travel purpose: It is crucial to have a well-documented and strong reason for frequent travel to Iceland or other Schengen countries, such as ongoing business activities, family visits, or cultural exchanges.

• Accurate and complete application: Ensure your application is thoroughly completed, with all required documents accurately provided and no discrepancies or missing information.

Stats: Although specific approval rates for long-term visas are not widely published, applicants with a proven travel history and a strong, legitimate need for multiple entries generally have a higher probability of approval.

Tip: If you regularly travel to the Schengen Area, particularly Iceland, consider applying for a long-term visa. To support your application, clearly outline your need for multiple entries.

When applying for an Iceland Schengen visa, you can choose between a single-entry or multiple-entry visa based on your travel plans. Here's how they differ:

• Single-entry visa: This visa type allows you to enter the Schengen Area, including Iceland, only once. After you leave, you cannot re-enter, even if your visa is still valid.

• Multiple-entry visa: This visa allows you to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times during the visa's validity period. However, you must adhere to the rule of not exceeding a 90-day stay within any 180-day period.

Tip: When applying for your Schengen visa, choose the entry type that suits your travel needs.

The 90/180 rule is important for travellers with a Schengen visa, as it states how long you can stay in the Schengen Area. The visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. These 90 days can be used consecutively or spread out over several trips, but the total cannot exceed 90 days within any rolling 180-day period.

How it works:

• Counting days: Begin counting your stay from the day you first enter a Schengen country. Each day spent within the Schengen Area contributes to your 90-day limit.

• Rolling 180-day period: The 180-day period is a rolling window which moves forward as time progresses. Before entering a Schengen country, check if you have stayed within the 90-day limit over the past 180 days. If you've already reached 90 days, you must wait until some days fall outside the 180-day window before re-entering.

• Managing your stay: You can use your 90 days in one continuous stay or break them into multiple shorter visits. Ensure that your cumulative days in the Schengen Area during any 180-day period do not exceed 90 days.

Example:

If you visit Iceland on January 1st and stay for 30 days, then return on March 1st for another 30 days, you've used 60 of your 90 days. If you plan to visit again in May, you can stay for 30 more days before reaching your 90-day limit within that rolling 180-day period.

The Iceland visa processing time for Indians typically takes 15 working days from the receipt of a complete application.

However, this time frame may be extended if the interview is required, additional documentation requests, or increased application volumes during peak travel seasons.

Tip: To ensure your visa is processed in time, submit your application at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date, especially if travelling during busy periods.

The Iceland tourist visa validity for Indians is up to 180 days, allowing a maximum stay of 90 days within this period.

The visa’s validity allows you to enter Iceland and other Schengen countries multiple times, provided you do not exceed the 90-day stay limit within a 180-day period.

Example: If you enter Iceland on January 1, you can stay until March 30, after which you must leave and wait another 90 days before re-entering.

The Atlys Schengen visa appointment tracker allows you to check the available appointment dates for the Iceland Schengen visa easily without logging in.

Here are the Iceland tourist visa requirements for Indians:

• Passport

• Visa application form

• Passport photos

• Schengen travel insurance

• Proof of accommodation

• Financial means

• A flight itinerary

• A cover letter

• Proof of employment/studies

• Invitation letter

Passport:

You must have a passport or travel document with at least two blank pages. It must be valid for three months after the end of your trip and issued no later than ten years ago.

With Atlys, you cannot only upload your passport pictures but also take a picture of your passport using your smartphone or desktop camera.

Visa application form:

You must complete the Iceland visa application form and submit it online.

When applying on Atlys, we will handle the application form for you. This eliminates the need to worry about filling out details correctly, ensuring an error-free application.

Passport photos:

You require a passport photo of yourself that meets the Iceland visa photo requirements.

With Atlys, you cannot only upload your passport-size photo but also click the picture of yours using your smartphone or desktop camera. Atlys automatically adjusts the photo to meet the country's requirements without hassle.

Schengen travel insurance:

You must have insurance that provides a minimum coverage of €30,000 and be valid for the entire travel duration. The insurance must cover the entire Schengen area, not just Iceland.

Proof of accommodation:

Submit proof of accommodation through hotel reservations, rental agreements, or private accommodation. 

Atlys provides hotel reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

Financial means:

This is proof of financial funds through a bank statement for the last three months, stamped and signed by your bank manager, a copy of the Income Tax Department Return + ITR V acknowledgement for the previous financial year, and a signed and stamped leave permission from your employer.

A flight itinerary:

You'll need a flight itinerary showing your return date to your home country.

Atlys provides flight reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

A cover letter:

The cover letter should explain your trip's purpose, what you plan to do, and when you'll return home. It serves as proof of your trip's purpose.

Atlys will help you with a customizable cover letter during the application process, free of cost.

Proof of employment/studies:

On official letterhead, stamped and dated, containing contact information (address, email, telephone number) and the countersigning officer's name, position, and signature.

Invitation letter:

If applicable, submit an invitation letter from the invitee. This is required when visiting friends or family.

Here is an Iceland visa documents checklist to help you organize the required documents efficiently.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for an Iceland tourist visa. Your policy must offer a minimum coverage of €30,000 and be valid for your entire stay in the Schengen Area.

The insurance must cover the following to be valid for the Schengen Area:

• Hospitalisation and medical treatment.

• Prescription medications.

• Ambulance and emergency transport.

• Repatriation to your home country.

Tip: Ensure your insurance provider is recognised in Schengen countries and your policy covers your entire stay in Iceland.

Atlys provides travel insurance that meets Schengen visa requirements at a minimal cost.

To demonstrate that you can financially support yourself during your stay in Iceland, you need to provide the following documents:

• Bank statements: Submit original bank statements covering the last six months. These should show regular income, such as salary deposits, and reflect a healthy balance.

• Income tax returns (ITR): Provide copies of your ITR filings for the past two years. This helps prove your financial stability.

• Salary slips: If employed, include your salary slips for the last three to six months.

• Proof of investments: You can also submit documents showing other assets, such as fixed deposits, mutual funds, or property, as additional financial proof.

Tip: Ensure that all financial documents are recent, clearly show your name, and are stamped or signed by your bank or financial institution for authenticity.

When applying for an Iceland visa, your passport photo must meet specific Iceland Schengen visa photo standards:

• Size: The photo size must be 35 mm x 45 mm (width x height).

• Head size: Your head should take up 70-80% of the photo, roughly 32-36 mm from chin to crown.

• Colour: The photo must be in colour with a plain white or light grey background.

• Face position: Your face should be centred, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression.

• Eyes: Your eyes must be open and fully visible, with no reflections or obstructions.

• Glasses: If you wear glasses, ensure there’s no glare on the lenses and your eyes are clearly visible. Avoid wearing tinted glasses.

• Headwear: Headwear is only allowed for religious reasons. Even then, your face must be entirely visible, from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead, with the edges of the face clearly visible.

Tip: Adhering to these photo specifications can prevent delays in your visa application process.

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area. If your passport is nearing its expiration, you must renew it before applying for an Iceland visa.

Tip: Make sure your passport has at least two blank pages for visa and entry/exit stamps. Renewing your passport in advance can help avoid any delays or issues during the visa application process.

To demonstrate that you will return to India after your trip to Iceland, it's crucial to establish strong ties to your home country. Here are some effective ways to do this:

• Employment verification: Provide a letter from your employer confirming your position, salary, and approved leave. Clearly state that your job will be held for you until your return.

• Property ownership: Submit documentation proving real estate ownership in India, such as a home or land. This shows your deep-rooted connection to the country through significant investments.

• Family responsibilities: Highlight your family connections by providing marriage certificates or birth certificates of dependent children. This indicates that you have significant family responsibilities in India.

• Educational ties: If you are a student, include a letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment and the date you are expected to return to resume your studies.

• Involvement in community activities: For those not currently employed, demonstrate your active participation in local organisations, volunteer work, or cultural activities, showing your commitment to your community in India.

• Proof for retirees: Retired individuals can submit proof of pension or retirement benefits. Additionally, providing utility bills and property ownership documents can strengthen your ties to India.

Tip: The more comprehensive your evidence of ties to India, the more likely you are to convince the consular officer of your intent to return home after your visit.

Yes, you can apply for an Iceland visa with dual citizenship. However, you must use the same passport throughout the entire application process and the one you will enter in Iceland.

Tip: To avoid complications, ensure all your supporting documents align with the passport you're using for the visa application.

To apply for an Iceland Schengen visa, it's important to clearly demonstrate the purpose of your visit. Here's how to provide the necessary documentation based on your travel reason:

• Tourism: Submit hotel bookings, a detailed travel itinerary, and return flight reservations.

• Business: Provide an invitation letter from an Icelandic company or business partner and details of any meetings or conferences you plan to attend.

• Family visit: Include an invitation letter from your host in Iceland, along with proof of their residency and your relationship with them.

Tip: Strengthen your application by being specific in your cover letter, clearly outlining your planned activities and the purpose of your visit.

Yes, if you plan to stay with a friend in Iceland, you will need an invitation letter from them. The letter should include the following:

• Your friend's details: Their name, address, and a copy of their passport or residency permit.

• Accommodation information: Confirmation that they will host you during your stay in Iceland.

• Relationship: A brief explanation of your relationship with your host and the purpose of your visit.

Tip: Ensure the invitation letter is detailed and well-documented to support your visa application.

Yes, when applying for an Iceland visa, your bank statements must be signed and stamped by your bank. This step ensures the authenticity of your financial documents, which consulates often require to verify that the statements are legitimate.

Tip: To meet the visa requirements, visit your bank and request that they print, sign, and stamp your bank statements with their official seal. This will help avoid any delays or complications with your application.

Yes, a cover letter is generally required when applying for a Schengen visa. Make sure your letter includes the following points:

• Personal information: Include your name, address, and passport number.

• Purpose of visit: Clearly state the reason for your visit, whether for tourism, business, or visiting family.

• Itinerary: Provide a brief overview of your travel dates, accommodation, and the places you plan to visit.

• Financial means: Explain how you will finance your trip and attach supporting financial documents.

• Intent to return: Highlight your ties to your home country, such as employment, property, or family, to demonstrate that you plan to return after your trip.

Atlys will help you with a customizable cover letter during the application process, free of cost.

Here’s how you can apply for the Iceland tourist visa from India: 

1. Gather Your Documents

2. Log in to Atlys 

3. Book Your Appointment

4. Submit Your Documents at the Centre

5. Pay the Atlys & Service Fee

6. Receive Your Visa

Gather Your Documents: 

Start by collecting all the required documents, such as your valid passport, the last three months’ bank statements, payslips, income tax returns, and any other documents listed in the requirements.

Login to Atlys: 

Visit the Atlys website or open the mobile app. Select Iceland as your destination.

Book Your Appointment: 

Fill in your details, upload the necessary documents, and pay the appointment fee. Once you're done, you’ll receive a confirmation for your visa appointment.

Submit Your Documents: 

Go to the visa application center on your scheduled date. Atlys will arrange for your documents to be submitted in the correct order. During your visit, you’ll also complete the required biometrics (fingerprints and facial scans).

Pay the Atlys & Service Fee: 

Pay the Atlys Fee and wait for the processing, including travel insurance and courier fees, to be completed.

Receive Your Visa: 

Once approved, your passport with the Iceland tourist visa stamp will be delivered directly to your home.

Tip: Begin your visa application process at least 6-8 weeks before your planned travel date to account for processing time and any unforeseen delays.

No, an interview isn’t always required when applying for an Iceland tourist visa. However, the consulate may request one if they need further clarification. The interview aims to confirm the details in your application, verify the purpose of your trip, and ensure your ties to your home country. While most applicants won’t need to attend an interview, it’s wise to be ready just in case.

If an interview is requested, you might be asked about your travel plans, financial situation, the purpose of your visit to Iceland, and your reasons for returning to your home country. The aim is to confirm that you are a genuine traveller who will adhere to visa regulations.

No, each family member, including children and infants, must submit their own individual Schengen visa application. Every applicant needs to meet the visa requirements and provide their own set of documents.

Tip: When applying as a family, you can complete a single application with all your family's details on Atlys. We then handle the individual applications on your behalf.

Yes, Since Iceland is part of the Schengen area, you can visit other 28 countries unless specified on your visa. Make sure your travel itinerary indicates your intent to visit these countries. Also, when applying, ensure that Iceland is your primary destination, meaning you plan to spend most of your time there.

If you lose your passport with an Iceland visa while travelling, it is important to take immediate action. Follow these steps to secure an emergency travel document and notify the relevant authorities.

Steps to Follow:

1. Report the loss to local authorities and obtain a police report.

2. Visit the nearest Icelandic embassy or consulate to apply for an emergency passport.

3. Contact Icelandic immigration authorities to inform them of the loss and inquire about the possibility of reissuing the visa.

Tip: Always keep photocopies of your passport, visa, and other important documents in a separate, secure location. This will simplify the process of replacing your documents if they are lost or stolen.

If you need to adjust your travel dates after your Iceland Schengen visa has been approved but before you enter the Schengen Area, follow these steps:

• Check visa validity: Ensure your new travel dates are within the visa's validity period. If they are, you can proceed without needing to reapply.

• Contact the consulate: If the new dates fall outside your visa's validity, contact the issuing consulate to explore options, such as applying for a new visa or extending the current one.

Tip: If your visa is still valid, update your flight and accommodation bookings accordingly. Keep both the original and updated documents accessible, as immigration officers may request them during your entry into Iceland.

To improve your chances of getting an Iceland tourist visa, avoid these common mistakes:

• Incomplete documentation: Double-check that all documents are complete and accurate. For example, ensure that your bank statements cover the required six-month period, are signed, and clearly show your financial stability.

• Insufficient financial proof: You must provide clear evidence that you can financially support your stay in Iceland. This includes providing detailed bank statements and proof of income that are consistent and free of unexplained large deposits.

• Inadequate travel itinerary: Your itinerary should align with the purpose of your stated visit. For example, if you visit as a tourist, ensure your plan includes tourist activities and accommodations. Avoid unrealistic itineraries, such as visiting multiple distant locations quickly, as this may raise suspicions.

• Inconsistent information: Always ensure that the information you provide is consistent across all documents. If you have previously visited the Schengen Area, your travel history should match the details of your application. Misrepresentation or inconsistencies can lead to rejection.

• Unclear purpose of visit: Clearly state and support the purpose of your visit, whether it's tourism, business, or family. For example, if you're visiting Iceland for tourism, your itinerary should reflect stays in hotels or visits to tourist sites.

Generally, the Iceland Schengen visa fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is rejected, but when applied from Atlys, under Atlys Protect (free), you are eligible for a refund.

If your Iceland tourist visa application is rejected, you have several options to address the situation:

• Reapply for your visa: After a rejection, you can submit a new application once you have addressed the reasons for the denial. Ensure that all your documents are complete and accurate before reapplying. If the rejection was due to minor issues, such as missing or incomplete documents, reapplying with corrected paperwork significantly improves your chances of approval.

• Appeal the rejection: You also have the option to appeal the decision within 30 days of receiving the rejection notice. To do this, gather any missing documents or additional information and write a persuasive appeal letter explaining why your visa should be granted.

• Consider professional assistance: If the visa process seems overwhelming, consider hiring a visa service provider or consulting with an immigration lawyer. They can help you prepare a thorough application, ensuring all criteria are met, which can greatly increase your chances of success.

Tip: If you decide to reapply, seeking help from an authorised visa service provider can enhance your chances of obtaining the visa.

Yes, you can apply for a Schengen visa even if you have previously overstayed, but you will need to provide a thorough explanation of the reason for the overstay.

Tip: Providing a detailed explanation with proof, such as medical records if the overstay was due to illness, can help mitigate the impact of the previous overstay and improve your chances of getting a new visa.

No, you cannot legally stay in Iceland or any other Schengen country once your visa has expired. Overstaying your visa damages your travel history reputation, and it can lead to fines and deportation.

Tip: Keep track of your visa’s expiration date and plan your departure accordingly. If you anticipate needing to stay longer, apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires. However, extensions are typically granted only under exceptional circumstances.