Visa to Iceland
IMPORTANT:
- For information regarding the current temporary travel restrictions to Iceland, please click here to visit the website of the Icelandic Police.
In order to provide better and more efficient service for all applicants the Icelandic Embassy in Washington has authorized VFS Global to run Icelandic Visa Application Centre. Applicants are encouraged to hand in their applications there.
For more information about the Visa Application Centre and documentation requirements for visas to Iceland please visit VFS's website, call the helpline or send an e-mail to the Icelandic Visa Application Centre.
Applicants in the US can now electronically pre-register an application on the Directorate of Immigration website visa.government.is before arriving at the point of application with passports and supporting documents.
Washington Icelandic Visa Application Centre
VFS Services USA Inc.
Address: 1025 Vermont Ave NW, St# 200, Washington DC 20005.
Helpline Number: 347–329-2738
Email: [email protected]
Submission of Applications: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
Collection of Passports: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
New York Icelandic Visa Application Centre
VFS Services USA Inc.
Address: 145 West 45th Street, Floor 4, New York, NY 10036
Helpline Number: 347–329-2738
Email: [email protected]
Submission of Applications: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
Collection of Passports: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
Chicago Icelandic Visa Application Centre
VFS Services USA Inc.
Address: 142 E Ontario St., Suite # 1700, Chicago, IL- 60611
Helpline Number: 347–329-2738
Email: [email protected]
Submission of Applications: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
Collection of Passports: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
Houston Icelandic Visa Application Centre
VFS Services USA Inc.
Address: 2425 West Loop S, Suite 330, Houston, TX 77002
Helpline Number: 347–329-2738
Email: [email protected]
Submission of Applications: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
Collection of Passports: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
San Francisco Icelandic Visa Application Centre
VFS Services USA Inc.
Address: 110 Sutter Street, Floor 05, San Francisco, CA 94104
Helpline Number: 347–329-2738
Email: [email protected]
Submission of Applications: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
Collection of Passports: 09:00 – 16:00 (Monday – Friday except declared holidays)
Visa applications must be submitted in person and by appointment only between 09:00 and 15:00 Monday – Friday except declared holidays. Please note it is not possible to book appointments by phone or email.
Passport collection: between 09:00 and 16:00 from Monday to Friday except declared holidays.
The opening hours for the visa section of the Embassy of Iceland in Washington are Mondays – Friday from 09:00 – 16:00
Please find information about different types of Visa application requirements in the menu below.
INDIVIDUAL TOURISM
In order to ensure quick and efficient visa processing you must prepare all necessary documentation before you submit the application package to VFS Global. Failing to submit all relevant documentation will result in unnecessary delays or might lead to a refusal of your application. Therefore, please do not approach the visa reception before you have collected all supporting documentation. Personal appearance is requested for applicants applying for a Schengen visa to Iceland for the first time.
Information about the application will be shared with the other Schengen countries and applying under false circumstances may affect future applications for the Schengen area.
English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English. The application supporting documents should be handed in on letter size papers.
TOURIST VISA APPLICATION CHECKLIST
English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English. The application supporting documents should be handed in on letter size papers:
- Travel document
- Your passport or travel document must be valid for minimum three months (90 days) after the intended departure from the Schengen area,
- It shall contain at least two blank pages,
- It shall have been issued within the past 10 years,
- It should not have any observation regarding the front data page.
- Application form
- Fully completed application form and signed by the applicant. Please note that any incomplete information or false statements could result in delay in the processing of the application.
- The application form can be downloaded in English on the following page: Application form in English
- Photograph
- One recent original passport-size color photograph with white background. Photograph should not be older than six months.
- Covering letter
- A covering letter from the applicant introducing himself/herself, explaining the purpose, duration & itinerary of the visit in brief
- Proof of Legal Residence in the United States
- Valid original U.S. Resident Alien Card (Green card) or a valid U.S. visa including the I-94 online registration or valid original EAD card if it serves as advance parole. The Resident Alien Card, visa or EAD must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Students: A valid I-20 form (signed by the school within 6 months) or letter from the school on official letterhead with stamp, date, name/position/signature of the countersigning officer with contact information stating the name of the applicant, years of studies and an approval of absence for the duration of travel.
- Proof of employment or studies
- Employment: the employer’s letter on official letterhead with contact information, stamp, date, the name and position of the countersigning officer. The letter needs to state the name and position of the applicant, the duration of employment, salary and approval of absence for the duration of travel.
- If applicant is self-employed, he must hand in his latest tax returns (1040) and his business registration.
- Students that do not possess a valid I-20 form must provide a proof of enrollment.
- Travel Medical Insurance
- You must hold a travel insurance policy to cover possible expenses in connection with a return for all risks e.g. accident, illness, medical emergency evacuation etc. during your stay. The insurance policy must cover all the Schengen countries, and the minimum policy coverage is Euro 30,000 or U.S. Dollar 35,000. The insurance policy must be valid for the entire duration of the intended stay. The validity of the visa may be shortened if the insurance policy does not cover the entire duration of the stay. You must ensure always to have a valid Schengen travel insurance during your stays in the Schengen area. The border authorities may ask to see proof of a valid insurance when you enter Schengen.
- Please note: presenting just the copy of the medical insurance card is not sufficient, you need to present a confirmation letter from your insurance company stating clearly that you have international coverage for: any emergency medical expenses, emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for medical reasons.
- Proof of means of Transport
- Flight reservation of return or round ticket. If the applicant is travelling to several Schengen States, proof of intra-Schengen flight reservation, train itinerary or car rental. Please note that the tickets do not have to be paid, only the flight booking needs to be submitted.
- Proof of Lodging
- Hotel reservations, rental of holiday home or campus residence reservation. If the applicant intends to stay with a family member or a friend, proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation is required from the host. Individual Schengen States may require applicant to present proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation by completing a form drawn up by the Schengen State’s competent authority (hereinafter 'national form'). If applicant is travelling to several Schengen States, proof of lodging in each of them should be submitted.
- Proof of Financial means
- Original bank statement showing movements in the last three months, duly stamped and signed by the bank. The account should be in the name of the applicant or the sponsor of the trip. In case of a sponsor, the bank statement should be accompanied by a signed sponsorship letter and a signed copy of the sponsor’s passport.
- Retirees must provide proof of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or retirement savings or other financial support.
- Unemployed must provide unemployment benefits or other financial support
- Minor Applicant
- Minors must submit their birth certificate. If the document is not in English, a notarized copy must be provided.
- Valid original U.S. Resident Alien Card (Green card) or a valid U.S. visa including the I-94 online registration or valid original EAD card if it serves as advance parole. The Resident Alien Card, visa or EAD must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- If the minor is travelling with only one parent, notarized consent of the other parent or guardian, and a signed copy of their passport or other photo ID. In case a person has sole custody or guardianship of the minor, proof of this should be submitted.
- If the minor travels alone (without parents), notarized consent, from both parents or legal guardians of the minor; as well as signed copies of the passports or other photo ID of the parents or legal guardians.
- All minors must be accompanied by both parents or legal guardians and sign the application form in front of a VFS officer. Except in cases where, the child is traveling with one parent to visit the other parent, who is residing in Iceland.
- Passport Copy
- All applications must contain a full color photocopy of the valid passport - all pages of the passport are required.
- If there are any valid visas for Schengen or U.S./UK/Canada/Australia (issued in last three years) in the old/cancelled passport then a color photocopy of the visa pages and passport data pages are required.
- General Information
- All documents should be provided in letter size.
- Please submit only photocopies of all documents, as we do not guarantee the return of any original documents, but do carry original documents at the time of submission. The Embassy reserves the right to request the original of any document provided at any point during visa processing.
- English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English.
- The applicants should allow for a processing time of minimum 15 days, excluding the VFS handling time back and forth to the Iceland Embassy.
Visa for Family visit
In order to ensure quick and efficient visa processing you must prepare all necessary documentation before you submit the application package to VFS Global. Failing to submit all relevant documentation will result in unnecessary delays or might lead to a refusal of your application. Therefore, please do not approach the visa reception before you have collected all supporting documentation. Personal appearance is requested for applicants applying for a Schengen visa to Iceland for the first time.
Information about the application will be shared with the other Schengen countries and applying under false circumstances may affect future applications for the Schengen area.
English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English. The application supporting documents should be handed in on letter size papers.
Document Checklist for Private/Family Schengen visa
- Travel document
- Your passport or travel document must be valid for minimum three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area,
- It shall contain at least two blank pages,
- It shall have been issued within the past 10 years,
- It should not have any observation regarding the front data page.
- Application form
- Fully completed application form and signed by the applicant. Please note that any incomplete information or false statements could result in delay in the processing of the application. The application form can be downloaded in English on the following page: Application form in English
- Photograph
- One recent passport-size photograph in color with a white background and good resemblance. (3.5cm / 4.5cm). The photograph should not be older than six months.
- Proof of relationship
- Marriage certificate – if the applicant is visiting their spouse who has a permanent residence in Iceland.
- Proof of family relationship.
- Proof of Legal Residence in the United States
- Valid original U.S. Resident Alien Card (Green card) or a valid U.S. visa including the I-94 online registration or valid original EAD card if it serves as advance parole. The Resident Alien Card, visa or EAD must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Students: A valid I-20 form (signed by the school within 6 months) or letter from the school on official letterhead with stamp, date, name/position/signature of the countersigning officer with contact information stating the name of the applicant, years of studies and an approval of absence for the duration of travel.
- Proof of employment or studies
- Employment: the employer’s letter on official letterhead with contact information, stamp, date, the name and position of the countersigning officer. The letter needs to state the name and position of the applicant, the duration of employment, salary and approval of absence for the duration of travel.
- If applicant is self-employed, he must hand in his latest tax returns (1040) and his business registration.
- Students that do not possess a valid I-20 form must provide a proof of enrollment.
- Invitation letter
- A signed invitation letter from the Icelandic host containing the name of the invited applicant, purpose of visit, dates of the intended stay, nature of costs being covered (boarding & lodging).
- Completely filled form available on the following website of the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration: Invitation form
- Minor Applicant
- Minors must submit their birth certificate. If the document is not in English, a notarized copy must be provided.
- Valid original U.S. Resident Alien Card (Green card) or a valid U.S. visa including the I-94 online registration or valid original EAD card if it serves as advance parole. The Resident Alien Card, visa or EAD must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- If the minor is travelling with only one parent, notarized consent of the other parent or guardian, and a signed copy of their passport or other photo ID. In case a person has sole custody or guardianship of the minor, proof of this should be submitted.
- If the minor travels alone (without parents), notarized consent, from both parents or legal guardians of the minor; as well as signed copies of the passports or other photo ID of the parents or legal guardians.
- All minors must be accompanied by both parents or legal guardians and sign the application form in front of a VFS officer. Except in cases where, the child is traveling with one parent to visit the other parent, who is residing in Iceland.
- Travel Medical Insurance
- You must hold a travel insurance policy to cover possible expenses in connection with a return for all risks e.g. accident, illness, medical emergency evacuation etc. during your stay. The insurance policy must cover all the Schengen countries, and the minimum policy coverage is Euro 30,000 or U.S. Dollar 35,000. The insurance policy must be valid for the entire duration of the intended stay. The validity of the visa may be shortened if the insurance policy does not cover the entire duration of the stay. You must ensure always to have a valid Schengen travel insurance during your stays in the Schengen area. The border authorities may ask to see proof of a valid insurance when you enter Schengen.
- Please note: presenting just the copy of the medical insurance card is not sufficient, you need to present a confirmation letter from your insurance company stating clearly that you have international coverage for: any emergency medical expenses, emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for medical reasons.
- Proof of means of Transport
- Flight reservations of return or round ticket. If applicant is traveling to several Schengen states proof of intra-Schengen Flight reservation, Train Itinerary or Car rental.
- Proof of Financial means
- Original bank statement showing movements in the last three months, duly stamped and signed by the bank. The account should be in the name of the applicant or the sponsor of the trip. In case of a sponsor, the bank statement should be accompanied by a signed sponsorship letter and a signed copy of the sponsor’s passport.
- Retirees must provide proof of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or retirement savings or other financial support.
- Unemployed must provide unemployment benefits or other financial support.
- Proof of the host is legally residing in Iceland
- If the host is Icelandic, copy of the host‘s passport
- If the host is an EU citizen, copy of passport and registration in Iceland.
- If the host is a third country national copy of passport and valid residence permit in Iceland.
- If the host holds an expired residence permit, but has applied for renewal, the embassy will make a decision based on the specific details of the situation.
- Passport Copy
- All applications must contain a full color photocopy of the valid passport - all pages of the passport are required.
- If there are any valid visas for Schengen or U.S. /UK/Canada/Australia (issued in last three years) in the old/cancelled passport then a color photocopy of the visa pages and passport data pages are required.
- General Information
- All documents should be provided in letter size.
- Please submit only photocopies of all documents, as we do not guarantee the return of any original documents, but do carry original documents at the time of submission. The Embassy reserves the right to request the original of any document provided at any point during visa processing and, if deemed necessary, to interview the applicant.
- English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English.
- The applicants should allow for a processing time of minimum 15 days, excluding the VFS handling time back and forth to the Iceland Embassy.
VISA FOR BUSINESS VISIT
In order to ensure quick and efficient visa processing you must prepare all necessary documentation before you submit the application package to VFS Global. Failing to submit all relevant documentation will result in unnecessary delays or might lead to a refusal of your application. Therefore, please do not approach the visa reception before you have collected all supporting documentation. Personal appearance is requested for applicants applying for a Schengen visa to Iceland for the first time.
Information about the application will be shared with the other Schengen countries and applying under false circumstances may affect future applications for the Schengen area.
English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English. The application supporting documents should be handed in on letter size papers.
Document Checklist for Schengen business visa
- Travel document
- The Passport should be valid for at least three months (any other type of travel document should be valid for at least six months), beyond the intended duration of stay in the Schengen territory and with at least two blank page to affix the visa.
- Application form
- Fully completed application form and signed by the applicant. Please note that any incomplete information or false statements could result in delay in the processing of the application. The application form can be downloaded in English on the following page: Application form in English
- Photograph
- One recent passport-size photograph in color with a white background and good resemblance. (3.5cm / 4.5cm). The photograph should not be older than six months.
- Proof of Legal Residence in the United States
- Valid original U.S. Resident Alien Card (Green card) or a valid U.S. visa including the I-94 online registration or valid original EAD card if it serves as advance parole. The Resident Alien Card, visa or EAD must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Students: A valid I-20 form (signed by the school within 6 months) or letter from the school on official letterhead with stamp, date, name/position/signature of the countersigning officer with contact information stating the name of the applicant, years of studies and an approval of absence for the duration of travel.
- Covering letter
- A Covering letter from the U.S. organization or company containing following details:
i. Name and designation of the applicant and also of the signatory (of managerial or executive level) with signature.
ii. An outline of the applicant’s itinerary, purpose of visit, names and addresses of the companies he/she intends to visit, period & place of intended stay.
iii. Self-employed should submit the latest tax returns (1040) and the business registration.
iv. Working dependent visa holder (H4, L2, F2) must provide color copy of EAD card.
- A Covering letter from the U.S. organization or company containing following details:
- Invitation letter
- A signed invitation letter from the Icelandic company containing:
i. Name of the invited applicant,
ii. Purpose of visit,
iii. Dates of the intended stay,
iv. Nature of costs being covered (boarding & lodging). - Completely filled form from the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration available on the following website. Invitation form
- A signed invitation letter from the Icelandic company containing:
- Travel Medical Insurance
- You must hold a travel insurance policy to cover possible expenses in connection with a return for all risks e.g. accident, illness, medical emergency evacuation etc. during your stay. The insurance policy must cover all the Schengen countries, and the minimum policy coverage is Euro 30,000 or U.S. Dollar 35,000. The insurance policy must be valid for the entire duration of the intended stay. The validity of the visa may be shortened if the insurance policy does not cover the entire duration of the stay. You must ensure always to have a valid Schengen travel insurance during your stays in the Schengen area. The border authorities may ask to see proof of a valid insurance when you enter Schengen.
- Please note: presenting just the copy of the medical insurance card is not sufficient, you need to present a confirmation letter from your insurance company stating clearly that you have international coverage for: any emergency medical expenses, emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for medical reasons.
- Proof of means of Transport
- Flight reservations of return or round ticket. If applicant is traveling to several Schengen states proof of intra-Schengen Flight reservation, Train Itinerary or Car rental.
- Proof of Lodging
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings or accommodation guarantees, covering the whole duration of the intended stay.
- Proof of Financial means
- Evidence of source of Financial support such as:
i. Original bank statement showing movements in the last three months, duly stamped and signed by the bank. The account should be in the name of the applicant or the sponsor of the trip. In case of a sponsor, the bank statement should be accompanied by a signed sponsorship letter and a signed copy of the sponsor’s passport.
ii. In case applicant is the proprietor / owner of the company, company’s bank statement, the latest tax returns (1040) and the business registration.
- Evidence of source of Financial support such as:
- Passport Copy
- All applications must contain a full color photocopy of the valid passport - all pages of the passport are required.
- If there are any valid visas for Schengen or U.S. /UK/Canada/Australia (issued in last three years) in the old/cancelled passport then a color photocopy of the visa pages and passport data pages are required.
- General Information
- All documents should be provided in letter size.
- Please submit only photocopies of all documents, as we do not guarantee the return of any original documents, but do carry original documents at the time of submission. The Embassy reserves the right to request the original of any document provided at any point during visa processing and, if deemed necessary, to interview the applicant.
- English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English.
- The applicants should allow for a processing time of minimum 15 days, excluding the VFS handling time back and forth to the Iceland Embassy.
VISA FOR SPORTS, CULTURE, SCIENCE AND STUDY
In order to ensure quick and efficient visa processing you must prepare all necessary documentation before you submit the application package to VFS Global. Failing to submit all relevant documentation will result in unnecessary delays or might lead to a refusal of your application. Therefore, please do not approach the visa reception before you have collected all supporting documentation. Personal appearance is requested for applicants applying for a Schengen visa to Iceland for the first time.
Information about the application will be shared with the other Schengen countries and applying under false circumstances may affect future applications for the Schengen area.
English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English. The application supporting documents should be handed in on letter size papers:
Document Checklist for Sports, Culture, Science and study Visa Application
- Travel document
- The Passport should be valid for at least three months (any other type of travel document should be valid for at least six months), beyond the intended duration of stay in the Schengen territory and with at least two blank page to affix the visa.
- Photograph
- One recent passport-size photograph in color with a white background and good resemblance. (3.5cm / 4.5cm). The photograph should not be older than six months.
- Application form
- Fully completed application form and signed by the applicant. Please note that any incomplete information or false statements could result in delay in the processing of the application. The application form can be downloaded in English on the following page: Application form in English
- Proof of Legal Residence in the United States
- Valid original U.S. Resident Alien Card (Green card) or a valid U.S. visa including the I-94 online registration or valid original EAD card if it serves as advance parole. The Resident Alien Card, visa or EAD must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Students: A valid I-20 form (signed by the school within 6 months) or letter from the school on official letterhead with stamp, date, name/position/signature of the countersigning officer with contact information stating the name of the applicant, years of studies and an approval of absence for the duration of travel.
- Covering letter
- A Covering letter from the U.S. school, organization or company containing following details:
- Name of the invited applicant, purpose of visit, dates of the intended stay, nature of costs being covered by host (boarding & lodging).
- An outline of the applicant’s itinerary, names and addresses of the schools, organization or company intended to visit.
- A Covering letter from the U.S. school, organization or company containing following details:
- Invitation letter
- A signed invitation letter from the Icelandic school, organization or company containing name of the invited applicants, purpose of visit, dates of the intended stay, nature of costs being covered (boarding & lodging).
- Travel Medical Insurance
- You must hold a travel insurance policy to cover possible expenses in connection with a return for all risks e.g. accident, illness, medical emergency evacuation etc. during your stay. The insurance policy must cover all the Schengen countries, and the minimum policy coverage is Euro 30,000 or U.S. Dollar 35,000. The insurance policy must be valid for the entire duration of the intended stay. The validity of the visa may be shortened if the insurance policy does not cover the entire duration of the stay. You must ensure always to have a valid Schengen travel insurance during your stays in the Schengen area. The border authorities may ask to see proof of a valid insurance when you enter Schengen.
- Please note: presenting just the copy of the medical insurance card is not sufficient, you need to present a confirmation letter from your insurance company stating clearly that you have international coverage for: any emergency medical expenses, emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for medical reasons.
- Proof of means of Transport
- Flight reservations of return or round ticket. If applicant is traveling to several Schengen states proof of intra-Schengen Flight reservation, Train Itinerary or Car rental.
- Proof of Lodging
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings or accommodation guarantees covering the whole duration of the intended stay.
- Proof of Financial means
- Evidence of source of Financial support such as:
- Original bank statement showing movements in the last three months, duly stamped and signed by the bank. The account should be in the name of the applicant or the sponsor of the trip. In case of a sponsor, the bank statement should be accompanied by a signed sponsorship letter and a signed copy of the sponsor’s passport.
- In case applicant is the proprietor / owner of the company, company’s bank statement, the latest tax returns (1040) and the business registration.
- Minor Applicant
- Minors must submit their birth certificate. If the document is not in English, a notarized copy must be provided.
- Valid original U.S. Resident Alien Card (Green card) or a valid U.S. visa including the I-94 online registration or valid original EAD card if it serves as advance parole. The Resident Alien Card, visa or EAD must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- If the minor is travelling with only one parent, notarized consent of the other parent or guardian, and a signed copy of their passport or other photo ID. In case a person has sole custody or guardianship of the minor, proof of this should be submitted.
- If the minor travels alone (without parents), notarized consent, from both parents or legal guardians of the minor; as well as signed copies of the passports or other photo ID of the parents or legal guardians.
- All minors must be accompanied by both parents or legal guardians and sign the application form in front of a VFS officer. Except in cases where, the child is traveling with one parent to visit the other parent, who is residing in Iceland.
- Passport Copy
- All applications must contain a full color photocopy of the valid passport - all pages of the passport are required.
- If there are any valid visas for Schengen or U.S./UK/Canada/Australia (issued in last three years) in the old/cancelled passport then a color photocopy of the visa pages and passport data pages are required.
- General Information
- All documents should be provided in letter size.
- Please submit only photocopies of all documents, as we do not guarantee the return of any original documents, but do carry original documents at the time of submission. The Embassy reserves the right to request the original of any document provided at any point during visa processing and, if deemed necessary, to interview the applicant.
- English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English.
- The applicants should allow for a processing time of minimum 15 days, excluding the VFS handling time back and forth to the Iceland Embassy.
TRANSIT VISA
In order to ensure quick and efficient visa processing you must prepare all necessary documentation before you submit the application package to VFS Global. Failing to submit all relevant documentation will result in unnecessary delays or might lead to a refusal of your application. Therefore, please do not approach the visa reception before you have collected all supporting documentation. Personal appearance is requested for applicants applying for a Schengen visa to Iceland for the first time.
Information about the application will be shared with the other Schengen countries and applying under false circumstances may affect future applications for the Schengen area.
English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English. The application supporting documents should be handed in on letter size papers:
TRANSIT VISA APPLICATION CHECKLIST
- Travel document
- Your passport or travel document must be valid for minimum three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area,
- It shall contain at least two blank pages,
- It shall have been issued within the past 10 years,
- It should not have any observation regarding the front data page.
- Application form
- Fully completed application form and signed by the applicant. Please note that any incomplete information or false statements could result in delay in the processing of the application.
- The application form can be downloaded in English on the following page: Application form in English
- Photograph
- One recent original passport-size color photograph with white background. Photograph should not be older than six months.
- Travel Medical Insurance
- You must hold a travel insurance policy to cover possible expenses in connection with a return for all risks e.g. accident, illness, medical emergency evacuation etc. during your stay. The insurance policy must cover all the Schengen countries, and the minimum policy coverage is Euro 30,000 or U.S. Dollar 35,000. The insurance policy must be valid for the entire duration of the intended stay. The validity of the visa may be shortened if the insurance policy does not cover the entire duration of the stay. You must ensure always to have a valid Schengen travel insurance during your stays in the Schengen area. The border authorities may ask to see proof of a valid insurance when you enter Schengen.
- Please note: presenting just the copy of the medical insurance card is not sufficient, you need to present a confirmation letter from your insurance company stating clearly that you have international coverage for: any emergency medical expenses, emergency hospital treatment and repatriation for medical reasons.
- Proof of Legal Residence in the United States
- Valid original U.S. Resident Alien Card (Green card) or a valid U.S. visa including the I-94 online registration or valid original EAD card if it serves as advance parole. The Resident Alien Card, visa or EAD must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Students: A valid I-20 form (signed by the school within 6 months) or letter from the school on official letterhead with stamp, date, name/position/signature of the countersigning officer with contact information stating the name of the applicant, years of studies and an approval of absence for the duration of travel.
- Proof of Legal Residence in the United States
- Notarized copy of U.S. Alien Registration Card or other valid resident visa (type A, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, O, or R) valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Students: A valid I-20 form (signed by the school within 6 months) or letter from the school on official letterhead with stamp, date, name/position/signature of the countersigning officer with contact information stating the name of the applicant, years of studies and an approval of absence for the duration of travel.
- Proof of means of Travel
- Travel itinerary
- Flight reservation of return or one way ticket to one‘s country of origin. Please note that the tickets do not have to be paid, only the flight booking needs to be submitted.
- If travelling in an organized tour, proof from travel agency or tour operator confirming the booking of the tour.
- Visa to the destination country (if required).
- Proof of employment or studies
- Employment: the employer’s letter on official letterhead with contact information, stamp, date, the name and position of the countersigning officer. The letter needs to state the name and position of the applicant, the duration of employment, salary and approval of absence for the duration of travel.
- If applicant is self-employed, he must hand in his latest tax returns (1040) and his business registration.
- Students that do not possess a valid I-20 form must provide a proof of enrollment.
- Proof of Financial means
- Evidence of source of Financial support such as:
- Original bank statement showing movements in the last three months, duly stamped and signed by the bank. The account should be in the name of the applicant or the sponsor of the trip. In case of a sponsor, the bank statement should be accompanied by a signed sponsorship letter and a signed copy of the sponsor’s passport.
- In case applicant is the proprietor / owner of the company, company’s bank statement, the latest tax returns (1040) and the business registration.
- Retirees must provide proof of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or retirement savings or other financial support.
- Unemployed must provide unemployment benefits or other financial support
- Minor Applicant
- Minors must submit their birth certificate. If the document is not in English, a notarized copy must be provided.
- Valid original U.S. Resident Alien Card (Green card) or a valid U.S. visa including the I-94 online registration or valid original EAD card if it serves as advance parole. The Resident Alien Card, visa or EAD must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- If the minor is travelling with only one parent, notarized consent of the other parent or guardian, and a signed copy of their passport or other photo ID. In case a person has sole custody or guardianship of the minor, proof of this should be submitted.
- If the minor travels alone (without parents), notarized consent, from both parents or legal guardians of the minor; as well as signed copies of the passports or other photo ID of the parents or legal guardians.
- All minors must be accompanied by both parents or legal guardians and sign the application form in front of a VFS officer. Except in cases where, the child is traveling with one parent to visit the other parent, who is residing in Iceland.
- Passport Copy
- All applications must contain a full color photocopy of the valid passport - all pages of the passport are required.
- If there are any valid visas for Schengen or U.S./UK/Canada/Australia (issued in last three years) in the old/cancelled passport then a color photocopy of the visa pages and passport data pages are required.
- General Information
- All documents should be provided in letter size.
- Please submit only photocopies of all documents, as we do not guarantee the return of any original documents, but do carry original documents at the time of submission. The Embassy reserves the right to request the original of any document provided at any point during visa processing.
- English translations must accompany the documents not originally in English.
- The applicants should allow for a processing time of minimum 15 days, excluding the VFS handling time back and forth to the Iceland Embassy.
COMMON INFORMATION SHEET
What is a Uniform Schengen Visa?
It is an authorization issued by one of the Member States of the Schengen Area with a view to transit through or an intended stay in the territory of the Member States of a duration of no more than three months in any six-month period from the date of first entry in the territory of the Member States.
To which countries can I travel on the basis of my Uniform Schengen Visa?
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
Who can apply for a Schengen Visa in the United States?
Third-country nationals who are legally present in the United States.
Third-country nationals legally present but not residing in the United States, if the applicant provides justification for lodging the application in the United States.
Which member state is competent for examining and deciding on my Visa application?
The Member State competent for examining and deciding on an application for a uniform visa shall be:
- the Member State whose territory constitutes the sole destination of the visit(s).
- if the visit includes more than one destination, the Member State whose territory constitutes the main destination of the visit(s) in terms of the length or purpose of stay.
- if no main destination can be determined, the Member State whose external border the applicant intends to cross in order to enter the territory of the Member States.
Which consulate of the member state in the United States (if there are more than one) is competent for examining and deciding on my Visa application?
Please check the website of the Member State.
Where can I lodge my application ?
Applications can be either lodged to an external service provider or directly at consulate of the destination country. Please check the web site of the Member State through the links below.
What happens if my application is lodged with the member state or the consulate that is not competent for examining and deciding on my Visa?
When an application has been lodged, the consulate verifies whether it is competent to examine and decide on it. If the consulate is not competent, it shall, without delay, return the application form and any documents submitted by the applicant, reimburse the visa fee, and indicate which consulate is competent.
Visa fee
- Applicants shall pay a visa fee of EUR 80.
- Children from the age of six years and below the age of 12 years shall pay a visa fee of EUR 40.
- Nationals from the Russian Federation, Ukraine, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Albania and the Republic of Moldova shall pay a visa fee of EUR 35.
The visa fee must be paid in local currency.
Applicants exempted from Visa fee
The visa fee shall be waived for applicants belonging to one of the following categories:
- children under six years;
- school pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training;
- researchers, as defined in point (2) of Article 3 of Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council ( 1 ), travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a scientific seminar or conference;
- representatives of non-profit organisations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organised by non-profit organisations.
Note: some Member States grant additional visa fee waivers for specific categories of applicants. Please check the website of the Member States through the links below.
Service fee
An additional service fee will be charged by an external service provider.
How long before the start of the intended visit can I apply?
Applications shall be lodged no more than six months, and for seafarers in the performance of their duties no more than nine months, before the start of the intended visit, and, as a rule, no later than 15 calendar days before the start of the intended visit. In justified individual cases of urgency, the consulate or the central authorities may allow the lodging of applications later than 15 calendar days before the start of the intended visit.
How long before the start of the intended visit should I apply ?
The application process at the Embassy can take up to 15 calendar days. However, it is also recommended that you lodge your visa application taking into account national holidays of the country of destination and the United States. Please note that during holidays the operation of certain consular services may be reduced.
Please check the website of the Member State through the links below.
Do I need an appointment for submitting my application?
Applicants may be required to obtain an appointment for the lodging of an application.
What supporting documents are to be attached to my application?
Check the harmonized list of supporting documents to be submitted by applicants (link) and the web site of the Member State through the links below.
Please note that during the examination of an application the consulate may request additional documents.
Do I have to go through an interview at the consulate?
Please note that during the examination of an application the consulate may call the applicant for an interview.
How long does it take for the consulate to decide on my application?
Applications shall be decided on within 15 calendar days of the date of the lodging of an application which is admissible.
That period may be extended up to a maximum of 45 calendar days in individual cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is needed.
What can I do if the Visa is refused?
As of 5th April 2011, applicants who have been refused a visa shall be informed by an official refusal letter and may have the right to appeal in accordance with the national law of the concerned Member State.
Appeals shall be conducted against the Member State that has taken the final decision on the application and in accordance with the national law of that Member State.
Each Member State shall indicate the references to the national law and the procedure relating to the right of appeal, including the competent authority with which an appeal may be lodged, as well as the time limit for lodging such an appeal.
You will find this information in the form for notifying and motivating refusal that you will be given for such purpose.
What documents do I have to take with me when I travel on a schengen visa?
Mere possession of a Schengen visa does not mean that the holder has an automatic right to enter the Schengen Area (i.e. the territory of the countries that issue Schengen visa).
At the external border, the visa holder may be requested to produce documents justifying the purpose and conditions of the intended stay and that they have sufficient means of subsistence, both for the period of the intended stay and for the return to their country of origin or transit to a third state into which they are certain to be admitted, or are in a position to acquire such means lawfully.
What rules apply if my family members are EU or EEA nationals?
If you are a family member of an EU/EEA you may qualify for an accelerated free visa procedure as long as you meet the following criteria:
1.- You are a family member (this includes a spouse, registered partner, child who is under 21 or a depending family member) of an EU/EEA or Swiss national (or of his/her spouse/registered partner); AND 2.- That EU/EEA national or Swiss national is residing in another Member State than that of which he/she is a national or travelling there to take up residence; AND
3.- You are accompanying the EU/EEA national or planning to join him/her for residence.
The visa should be applied for at the Embassy of the country of future residence of the EU/EEA national or Swiss national, not at the Embassy of his/her country of origin.
If you think you qualify for visa facilitation you will need to show proof that you meet these criteria when you submit your visa application.