At the beginning of 2025, a new travel authorization system called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will come into effect. This new requirement aims to bolster security across Europe, addressing concerns related to terrorism and the influx of migrants and refugees.
Non-EU visitors who previously didn’t need a visa will now have to apply online for ETIAS, which will screen applicants against a database for criminal activities, prior overstays in the EU, and other security issues.
Iceland and the Schengen Zone
While Iceland is not part of the EU, it is a member of the Schengen zone, along with countries like Norway and Switzerland. The Schengen zone has uniform rules regarding entry and stay duration.
Therefore, Iceland will implement the same ETIAS requirements as other Schengen countries. This means that if you plan to visit Iceland and then travel to other European destinations, you will need an ETIAS authorization before landing in Reykjavik.
Upon arrival, your passport will be stamped for a maximum stay of 90 days, allowing you to travel freely within the Schengen zone during this period.
Do You Need an Iceland ETIAS Visa Waiver?
As long as Iceland remains in the Schengen zone, the ETIAS rules will apply. Whether you need to apply for ETIAS depends on your nationality. Citizens of EU countries will continue to enjoy unrestricted travel across Europe, including Iceland. Non-EU citizens are divided into two categories:
- Visa-Exempt Travelers: This includes citizens from North America, Australia, and other countries who previously only needed a valid passport for short visits to Europe. Starting in 2025, these travelers must apply for ETIAS approval. The application fee is €7, and the authorization is valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Visa-Required Travelers: Citizens from countries not covered by the visa waiver will continue to need a full visa to enter Iceland, as is currently the case.
When Do You Need to Have ETIAS?
The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is set to launch in early 2025. Following its implementation, there will be a 180-day grace period.
During this six-month grace period, non-EU travelers who previously did not need a visa will need to fill out an ETIAS application form. This period will allow travelers to become familiar with the new requirement and give European travel authorities time to train on the new protocols and address any technical issues that arise.
After the grace period ends, all third-country nationals will be required to have ETIAS approval to enter the Schengen zone.
What will be asked on the ETIAS Application form?
The ETIAS online application will ask for basic information as part of the pre-screening check. Below is the information that is said to be required:
- Valid passport / Travel document information
- Full name
- Current address
- Citizenship status
- Sex
- Preferred gender
- Dual citizenship status
- Email address
- Telephone number
- Date of birth
- Final destination member state
- Educational background
- Occupational background
During the ETIAS application or appeal process, you may be asked about your:
- Criminal history
- Past incarceration
- Felon status
- Past European travel
- Drug use
- Health history
How Long does Approval of ETIAS applications Take?
According to the website about ETIAS applications, it will only take a few minutes for an application to be approved once the payment is completed. While that sounds great, I would not leave applying for ETIAS to the last minute to avoid any possible issues.
Discovering Iceland's Natural Wonders
Iceland is a treasure trove of unique geological features, offering an abundance of geysers, bubbling mud pots, volcanoes, and lava fields. The country’s geothermal activity makes it a fascinating destination, even in winter, where you can relax in hot pools amidst snow and ice.
However, summer remains the ideal time to visit, especially if you plan to rent a car and explore beyond Reykjavik and Akureyri, Iceland’s two largest cities. If you plan to rent a car, use my code Iceland10 to save 10% on your entire rental cost with Go Car Rental Iceland.
Don’t miss out on Iceland’s breathtaking national parks. Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its historical and geological significance. Vatnajökull National Park boasts Iceland’s highest mountain, largest glacier, and extensive ice fields. You can use My Iceland Map to plan out your epic adventure.
As travel regulations evolve, staying informed is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey. With ETIAS in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your visit to Iceland and beyond is secure and well-regulated. Enjoy your adventure in this land of fire and ice!
Random Fact of the Episode
Visa and Travel Authorization Requirements for Visiting the United States
All foreigners visiting the United States must hold a valid visa or travel authorization (ESTA) unless they are green card holders. While visas are issued by U.S. embassies, travel authorizations are applied for and issued online.
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online platform designed to streamline the application process for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. For those planning to travel to the USA by air or sea, obtaining travel authorization through ESTA is a mandatory step before beginning their journey.
Requirements to Apply for an ESTA
To apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), travelers must meet specific requirements and eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizenship: Only citizens from 41 qualifying countries are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Ensure that your country is on the list of eligible nations.
- Purpose of Visit: The Visa Waiver Program allows for stays of up to 90 days for purposes including tourism, business, transit, healthcare, or participation in non-credited study programs.
Application Requirements
- Biometric Passport: You must possess a biometric passport that includes a microchip and the relevant symbol on its cover. This passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the United States.
- ESTA Application: Complete the ESTA application online. It is recommended to apply for ESTA before making any hotel or flight reservations, as there might be a need to apply for a full visa if ESTA is not approved.
Post-Approval
Once your ESTA application is approved, you can update it with your final itinerary details before your departure. This flexibility allows you to finalize your travel plans with confidence.
By meeting these requirements, you can ensure a smooth application process and secure your travel authorization to visit the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.
Icelandic Word of the Episode
Vegabréfsáritun – Visa
Vegabréf – passport
Áritun – Signed document
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