Iceland
Summary
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Iceland’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. You should take out appropriate travel insurance that includes cover for emergency medical treatment and associated costs.
From 1 January 2021, most people cannot use a UK-issued European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to get medical treatment in Iceland.
To read more about what your travel insurance should cover, see the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
Approximately 261,000 British nationals visited Iceland through Keflavik airport in 2019. Most visits are trouble-free.
If you’re living in or moving to Iceland, read the Living in Iceland guide in addition to this travel advice.
Iceland is volcanically and seismically active and weather conditions can be severe and change rapidly. Monitor the Icelandic Met Office website, the Safe Travel website, and the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website for the latest updates and follow the advice of the local authorities. In case of an emergency, the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management in Iceland will send out text messages to anyone located in the vicinity. For more information see Natural disasters
On 5 July 2023 Reykjanes Peninsula began experiencing intense seismic activity. A volcanic fissure eruption started 10 July. PoliceThe havearea advisedis peopleclosed to staythe awaypublic. fromDo not attempt to visit the area. site until such time the authorities assess it is safe to do so. The area is too unstable and there are high levels of poisonous gases. Follow instructions on Safe Travel Iceland. For more information see Natural disasters.disasters
If you need to contact the emergency services, call 112.
If you’re travelling around Iceland leave your travel plans with Safe Travel in case you need assistance from the Icelandic emergency services. Keep mobile phones switched on and always follow the advice of the local authorities.
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Iceland, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.