Are you planning a trip to Iceland but don’t know how long you can stay without a visa? The answer might surprise you: up to five days. This is thanks to the 5-Day Rule, which allows travellers to stay in Iceland for up to five days without a visa. In this blog post, we’ll explore what the 5-Day Rule is, who is eligible, and other important details you should know before visiting Iceland.
What is the 5-Day rule?
The 5-Day rule is a law that states visitors from certain countries can stay in Iceland for up to five days without needing to apply for a visa. The 5-day rule, officially known as the Schengen Agreement Short Stay Regulation (SASR), stipulates that visa-exempt travellers may stay in Iceland for a maximum of 5 days within a 180-day period. This rule applies to nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA) and several other countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.
When does the 5-Day rule apply?
To be eligible for the 5-Day rule, you must enter Iceland through a port of entry listed on the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration’s website. In addition, you must show proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Iceland. If you plan to stay in Iceland for more than five days, you will need to obtain a Schengen visa. It is also important to note that even if you are granted entry under the 5-Day rule, it does not guarantee re-entry should you leave the country and attempt to re-enter during the same period.
What if I want to stay longer than 5 days?
If you want to stay in Iceland for more than 5 days, you will need to apply for a visa. Depending on your nationality, the process of applying for a visa can vary. Generally, you will need to submit an application form, passport-size photographs, and proof of travel insurance to the Directorate of Immigration. You may also need to provide proof of income and/or proof of accommodation in Iceland.
How many days can you stay in Iceland without a visa?
If you are from a visa-exempt country, you would come under the ambit of the 5-day rule. This rule states that you can stay for up to 5 days in Iceland without a visa. The only exception to this rule is if you are coming to Iceland for a business purpose. In this case, you can stay in Iceland for up to 14 days without a visa. If you are not from a visa-exempt country, then you must apply for a visa before travelling to Iceland. The length of the visa depends on the purpose of your visit.
What if you’re not from a visa-exempt country?
If you’re not from a visa-exempt country, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa before you can enter Iceland. This visa will allow you to stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. To apply for a Schengen visa, you will need to provide several documents including a valid passport, proof of financial means, and a letter of intent. Depending on the country you are from, you may also need to provide additional documents. Once your visa is approved, you can stay in Iceland for up to 90 days.