The Iceland Visa Application Centre exclusively caters to US green card holders seeking short-stay Schengen visas. It is crucial to establish a clear purpose for your trip to Iceland before commencing your Schengen visa application. When applying for your Schengen visa, opt for the consulate or a designated visa application center located in your ultimate Schengen destination.
This article’s main aim is to provide comprehensive guidance and assistance for US green card holders applying for a Schengen Visa to enter Iceland. We offer all the relevant information and valuable insights necessary to simplify your Iceland visa application process, regardless of whether your travel intentions are for leisure, business, or any other specific purpose.
For further information, or in case you encounter challenges during the visa application process, please consider seeking visa consultation services from us. We are ready to assist you in obtaining your visa smoothly and efficiently.
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Do US citizen need a Schengen visa for Iceland?
Iceland is a party to the Schengen Agreement. This means that U.S. citizens may enter Iceland without a visa for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes.
Visiting Iceland does not require US citizens to obtain a visa, provided their stay does not surpass 90 days within any 180-day period. This exemption applies to various purposes, including tourism, business, short-term studies, cultural or sports events, and medical treatment. However, it’s important to note that visa-free travel does not automatically ensure entry into Iceland. US citizens must meet certain requirements before being granted entry into the country.
However, if you plan to work long-term, study, or move to Iceland, you must apply for a National (D) Visa.
Starting in May 2025, US citizens will be obligated to complete the ETIAS registration prior to their journey to Iceland. ETIAS represents an electronic travel authorization that will grant citizens from visa-exempt countries the privilege of traveling within the Schengen area without the need for a visa application. This authorization will remain valid for three years or until your passport expires, depending on which occurs first.
Do Green Card Holders Need a Visa for Iceland?
If you have a US Green Card, you might need a visa for Iceland, depending on what passport you hold:
- If you hold a passport from a country that has a visa liberalization agreement with the EU, you don’t need a visa for Iceland.
- If you hold the passport of a country which does not have visa liberalization with the EU, you will need to apply for a visa.
Who Can Apply for Iceland Visa from the US?
You can seek an Iceland visa from the US if:
- You belong to a nation whose citizens require a visa for entry into the Schengen Area. Additionally, you must be a lawful resident in the United States (e.g., Green Card holders, F1 (I-20), H1B, G1, J1, etc.). Your residency should remain valid for at least three months after your return from the Schengen area.
- You are an American citizen who has previously been denied visa-free entry into Iceland or any other Schengen country.
- Iceland is your sole European destination.
- Iceland serves as your primary destination. If you plan to visit multiple Schengen states, ensure that you spend more days in Iceland or at least an equivalent number of days as in the other countries you intend to visit.
Please note that tourists and visitors with US visa types B1/B2 and J1 Summer Work Travel visas should submit their applications in their country of residence.
What Are the Types of Iceland Short-Stay Visas Available for US Green Card Holders?
Residents of the United States have the option to select from the following Schengen visa categories, depending on the reason for their visit to Iceland:
- Iceland Airport Transit Visa – If you plan to transit through an Icelandic airport on your way to a destination outside the Schengen Area.
- Iceland Tourist/Visitor Visa – If your trip to Iceland is for vacation, tourism, or visiting friends and family who live in Iceland.
- Iceland Business Visa – If your purpose for visiting Iceland is business-related activities.
- Iceland for Official Visit – For official delegations arriving in Iceland for an official visit..
- Iceland Medical Visa – If your intention is to receive medical treatment in Iceland.
- Iceland Short-term Study Visa – If you intend to enroll in a short-term course at an educational institution in Iceland, with a maximum duration of three months.
- Iceland Visa for Cultural, Sports, and Film Crews – If your purpose is to participate in a cultural or sports event in Iceland.
- Iceland Spouse Visa: If you planned to join your spouse who either is a citizen or has a work permit for Iceland.
Requirements for Iceland Schengen Visa from the US
You should assemble the following documents prior to submitting an application for an Iceland visa in the United States:
- Completed and signed visa application form (to be filled out with a blue pen, downloadable here).
- check more information on How to Download the Visa application form
- Information on how to fill the visa application form
- Valid passport not exceeding 10 years in age, with at least 3 months of validity after the intended visa expiry date. It must have a minimum of 2 blank visa pages and your signature.
- Two photographs in compliance with Schengen requirements (passport-sized, taken within the last six months, with a white background).
- check more information on Schengen visa Photograph Specification
- Proof of residency, such as a Green Card (alien residence card) or a valid US residence visa. The visa should permit re-entry into the United States of America.
- Evidence of travel arrangements, including a flight reservation with booking ID, your name, destination, and flight number (learn how to book flight tickets without full payment here).
- check more info Travel Itinerary for your Schengen visa
- Travel medical insurance for Iceland with a minimum coverage of €30,000 Euros or its equivalent in USD (up to $50,000), which can be easily purchased online from Europe Assistance.
- A cover letter detailing the purpose of your visit to Europe, intended duration of stay, travel dates, return plans, and any accompanying persons.
- Payment of the visa fee, accompanied by the receipt of payment.
- Proof of financial means, which can be supported by bank account statements, sponsorship letters, or a combination of both.
- Proof of civil status, which may include marriage certificates, birth certificates of children, death certificates of spouses, etc.
Other Supporting documents for employment
- Proof of employment:
- If employed:
- Employment contract, bank statements for the last 6 months, leave permission from your employer, Income Tax Return (ITR) form, or Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source of salary.
- If unemployed:
- and financially dependent on another person, provide a notarized letter from the sponsor taking full financial responsibility for your travel and stay, along with their valid passport and three recent bank statements.
- If self-employed:
- A copy of your business license, company bank statements for the last 6 months, and Income Tax Return (ITR).
- For foreign students in the US on F1 visas:
- Valid I-20 and a reference letter from your educational institution confirming your good standing, major, and expected graduation date.
- If retired,
- present pension statements from the last 6 months.
- If employed:
When planning a trip to Iceland for tourism or sightseeing, you must provide evidence of your accommodation:
- A comprehensive hotel reservation for the entire duration of your stay, including the name, full address, phone number, and email of the hotel or hostel.
- If you have rented a place in Iceland, include the rental agreement.
- If you are traveling with a tour agency, present a letter from the tour organizer.
On the other hand, if you are visiting Iceland to see friends and/or family, you should submit the following documents:
- Proof of your relationship with the host residing in Iceland.
- Proof of an invitation from your relative or friend living in Iceland, inviting you to visit.
- An invitation letter from your host in Iceland, along with a copy of their passport and/or residence permit for Iceland.
When traveling to Iceland for business purposes, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- An invitation letter from the company you will be visiting, including their detailed address and the dates of your visit.
- A certificate from your employer, explaining the purpose of your trip to Iceland.
- Business bank statements for the previous 6 months.
- Memorandum and Article of Association, submitted in an original certified copy (registered with joint-stock companies).
- Trade License (initial issuance and current renewal).
- Evidence of trip financing, where the employer or partner company must confirm coverage of your expenses in their invitation or letter.
Alternatively, if your visit to Iceland is for medical reasons, the necessary documents are:
- A local medical report from a doctor/clinic/hospital in your home country, confirming the need for medical treatment in Iceland.
- A medical certificate from the hospital or doctor in Iceland, verifying the date of your appointment and your medical condition.
- Payment receipts for medical fees.
- Official confirmation of the treatment/appointment by the receiving medical institution (hospital/clinic) in Iceland.
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover medical expenses and related costs during your treatment.
For visa applications involving minors, the additional documents required include:
- The original birth certificate.
- The Iceland visa application form signed by both parents.
- If the minor is traveling alone, a notarized authorization to travel to Iceland, signed by both parents or legal guardians.
- If one parent is not located in the United States, they should submit their signed consent to the Embassy/Consulate of their residing country.
Flight itinerary for Iceland Schengen Visa for US Green Card Holder
A travel itinerary typically details your day-to-day activities and plans for your entire trip. When applying for tourist, business, or short-stay visas, many consulates and visa application centers often require a comprehensive day-by-day travel plan as part of your application.
Creating a trip itinerary involves outlining your travel schedule, including flight bookings, accommodations, activities, and other relevant information. The specific requirements may vary depending on your destination and the purpose of your trip.
If you need assistance in generating a flight itinerary and understanding how to plan a trip for your Finland visa application, you can get more information and guidance on creating a flight itinerary to ensure a quick approval.
- Arrival and departure from the Schengen area
- Departure and arrival to the United States of America
You can know more about flight itinerary for Iceland Schengen visa.
Travel Insurance to Iceland Schengen Visa for US Green Card Holders
Travel medical insurance is a crucial requirement for all applicants, including children, when applying for a Iceland Schengen visa, and it is a mandatory document for many countries. Only individuals applying under Directive 2004/38/EC and those holding diplomatic or official passports are exempt from this requirement.
The insurance certificate must contain the following information:
- Applicant’s name
- Dates of coverage
- Amount of coverage
- Minimum coverage of €30,000 or $50,000
The insurance should cover the entire duration of your planned stay in the Schengen Area. It’s essential to bring both the original and a copy of your travel insurance policy when submitting your Iceland visa application.
Furthermore, there should be no limitations on insurance costs. For detailed information on obtaining suitable travel insurance for your Iceland visa, you can refer to the Travel Insurance for Iceland Visa guide.
You can obtain the necessary insurance by clicking on the provided link.
Cover letter for Iceland Schengen Visa for US Green Card holders
A visa application cover letter is a formal document that you must submit to the Iceland consulate, embassy, or Visa Application Center. The primary purpose of this cover letter is to provide detailed information about your trip, the purpose of your visit to Iceland, your financial situation, and any other pertinent information that can strengthen your Iceland visa application.
It’s important to create this cover letter in a professional manner, and it should be included along with the other documents in your Iceland visa application. For more detailed guidance on preparing a cover letter for your Iceland visa application, you can refer to the Cover Letter for Iceland Visa guide.
Know more about cover letter for Iceland Schengen visa
How to Apply for Iceland Schengen Visa for Green Card Holders from US?
Check out the procedure to apply for Iceland Schengen Visa from US for US Green Card Holders:
- Identify your right visa for your Iceland trip
- Get started to download and fill and complete your visa application
- Choose your nearest Visa Application Centre and set up an appointment for Iceland Schengen visa
- Pay your visa fees
- Attend your scheduled appointment at VFS visa application center
- Track progress of your visa application
- Collet your passport from the VFS Visa Application Centre
Where to Apply for Your Iceland Schengen Visa for US Green Card Holders?
To commence your Icelandic visa application within the United States, you are required to access the Online Visa Application System and schedule an appointment. The Icelandic Ministry of Foreign Affairs has entrusted VFS Global with the responsibility of managing Iceland visa applications in the US, necessitating the submission of your application through VFS Global offices.
VFS Global offices are present in several key locations throughout the United States, including Washington, New York, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Miami, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
| Mission Name | Address |
|---|---|
| VFS Global Visa Application Center in Washington | 1025 Vermont Ave NW, St# 200, Washington DC 20005. |
| VFS Global Visa Application Center in Chicago | 142 E Ontario St., Suite # 1700, Chicago, IL- 60611 |
| VFS Global Visa Application Center in New York | 128E 32nd Street, 3rd Floor, New York 10016 |
| VFS Global Visa Application Center in San Francisco | 2425 West Loop S, Suite 330, Houston, TX 77002 |
| VFS Global Visa Application Center in Houston | 2425 West Loop S, Suite 330, Houston, TX 77002 |
How to Apply for an Iceland Schengen Visa from Washington, D.C.?
To apply for an Iceland visa in Washington, D.C., you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Set up an appointment online.
- Complete the application form.
- Gather all the required documents.
- Attend your appointment at the VFS Global Visa Application Center in Washington, located at 1025 Vermont Ave NW, St# 200, Washington DC 20005.
How to Apply for an Iceland Schengen Visa from Chicago?
To apply for an Iceland visa in Chicago, follow these instructions:
- Schedule an appointment online.
- Fill out the application form.
- Assemble the necessary documents.
- Attend your appointment at the VFS Global Visa Application Center in Chicago, situated at 142 E Ontario St., Suite # 1700, Chicago, IL- 60611.
How to Apply for an Iceland Schengen Visa from New York?
To begin your Iceland visa application process in New York, please adhere to these guidelines:
- Arrange an appointment online.
- Complete the application form.
- Collect the required documents.
- Present yourself at the VFS Global Visa Application Center in New York, located at 128E 32nd Street, 3rd Floor, New York 10016.
How to Apply for an Iceland Schengen Visa from San Francisco?
To apply for an Iceland visa in San Francisco, follow these steps:
- Schedule an appointment online.
- Fill out the application form.
- Assemble the necessary documents.
- Attend your appointment at the VFS Global Visa Application Center in San Francisco, found at 2425 West Loop S, Suite 330, Houston, TX 77002.
How to Apply for an Iceland Schengen Visa from Houston?
To initiate your Iceland visa application in Houston, take the following steps:
- Set up an appointment online.
- Complete the application form.
- Gather the required documents.
- Attend your appointment at the VFS Global Visa Application Center in Houston, located at 2425 West Loop S, Suite 330, Houston, TX 77002.
When Should I apply for the Icelandic Schengen Visa from US?
The Embassy’s application process can take up to 15 calendar days. However, it is also advised that you submit your visa application by taking into account national holidays of the country of destination and the US.
Please keep in mind that certain consular services may be limited during holidays. So try to apply for visa at least 15 days before the planned visit and not earlier than three months before the start of the intended visit.
What is the Processing Time for an Icelandic Schengen Visa in the United States?
The processing time for an Icelandic Schengen Visa in the United States is a minimum of 15 days. However, under certain circumstances, such as a high volume of visa applications, this period may be extended up to 30 days. In exceptional cases, the processing time can take up to 60 days. Therefore, it is advisable to apply for your short-stay visa as early as possible, but not more than three months before your planned trip to Iceland.
How to Make Payment for the Iceland Schengen Visa Fee From the United States?
You can make payment for the Iceland visa fee through the following methods:
- Credit card
- Certified checks
- Postal money order
If you choose to pay with a postal money order, make it payable to “VFSServices USA Inc.” Additionally, please note that VFS Global charges an additional service fee of $47.24 USD per application.
What is the Iceland Schengen Visa fees, if you Apply from US?
| Category | Iceland Visa Fee in EUR | Iceland Visa Fee in USD |
|---|---|---|
| Iceland Schengen visa application fee | 80 | 95.45 |
| Iceland Schengen visa fee for children aged between 6-11 years | 40 | 47.72 |
| Fee for children under 6 years | No fee | No fee |
| US residents holding a passport of Armenia, Azerbaijan, or Kosovo | 35 | 38.52 |
| Researchers travelling for the purpose of conducting scientific research or participating in a scientific seminar or conference. | No fee | No fee |
| US residents holding a passport of the Gambia | 120 | 132.07 |
What can I do if the Iceland Schengen Visa is refused?
If you have been refused a Iceland visa, you will get an official rejection letter, so you have the right to appeal against their decision as per the national law of that Member State.
It is required of every Member State to provide information regarding national laws and the visa appeal process, including the appropriate authorities to file an appeal and the deadline for doing so.
Regarding the visa appeal process information will be sent to you in the form for notifying and motivating refusal that you will be given for this purpose.