Iceland travel guide for Americans

US citizens can enter Iceland without a visa for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. From 2026, you will also need an ETIAS travel authorisation, which you apply for online before you fly. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.

Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, so the 90-day rule applies across all Schengen countries combined. US citizens do not need a visa for short stays, but you must have a valid passport and, from 2026, an approved ETIAS authorisation. Border officials may ask for proof of funds and a return ticket, so carry your itinerary and accommodation details.

For longer stays, work, or study, you need a visa or residence permit from the Directorate of Immigration. Check the latest rules before you travel, as requirements can change.

The US Embassy in Reykjavík handles passports, notarial services, and emergency assistance for US citizens. If you lose your passport or need help, contact them. For routine questions, check their website first.

Iceland is expensive by US standards. A budget traveller can get by on about $150–$200 per day with hostels, bus travel, and cooking your own meals. A mid-range trip with hotels, car rental, and restaurant meals runs $250–$350 per day. Fuel, food, and tours are the biggest costs.

Car rental is the best way to see the country, but add insurance and fuel. Guided tours, such as glacier hikes or whale watching, cost $100–$200 per person. Book in advance for better rates.

Direct flights to Keflavík (KEF) run from New York (JFK, EWR), Boston, Washington DC, Chicago, Seattle, Denver, and Minneapolis, among others. Flight time is about 5–6 hours from the East Coast and 7–8 hours from the West Coast. Icelandair and Delta are the main carriers.

Keflavík is about 45 minutes by bus or car from Reykjavík. The airport has car rental desks and a Flybus service to the city.

Iceland uses Type C and F plugs, standard in Europe, with 230 V and 50 Hz. US devices with 110 V plugs need a voltage converter and a plug adapter. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops) are dual-voltage, so a simple adapter is enough. Check your device labels before plugging in.

Tipping is not expected in Iceland. Service charges are included in restaurant bills and hotel rates. Rounding up a taxi fare or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but never required. Guides and drivers do not expect tips either.

In an emergency, call 112 for police, fire, or ambulance. For non-urgent medical advice, call 1700. The Icelandic health service is good, but treatment is not free for visitors, so travel insurance is essential. Pharmacies are widely available in towns.