Family and Friends Visa Checklist 

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:

1. The travel document must be valid for a minimum of three (3) months after the planned journey, issued within the previous 10 years and have at least two (2) blank pages. Provide previous old/cancelled passports – including any valid visas for Schengen or USA/UK (issued in last three years).

2. Online application form https://visa.government.is/. Printed and signed by the applicant.
Harmonized Schengen visa application form.
Both application forms must be submitted with the application.

3. One (1) passport photograph (max. 6 months old, on a white background, measuring 3.5 x 4.5 cm.)

4. Travel medical insurance, valid for all Schengen-countries. The insurance must cover the applicant for at least 30,000 Euros or equivalent, for all risks e.g., accident, illness, medical emergency evacuation etc. The policy must clearly specify the period of validity and must cover the entire duration of the trip including the date of arrival & departure.

5. Proof of Transportation - 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. Travel plan covering all the within Schengen area.

6. Proof of accommodation – Hotel reservations, rental of holiday home or campus residence reservation. If you intend to stay with a family member or a friend, proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation from the host. If you are travelling to several Schengen states, proof of accommodation in each of them.

7. If applicable, other purpose of visit (Visiting family/friends / Business / Conferences)

• Visiting family/friends: The online invitation form is available on https://island.is/en/get-a-visa/supporting-documents (Invitation Letter for visitors). The online sponsorship form is available on https://island.is/en/get-a-visa/supporting-documents (Guarantee form for visits). If no sponsorship form has been presented: copy of the biodata page of the passport or residence permit of the host in Iceland, if applicable proof of (family) relationship.
• Business/Conferences: Original signed invitation from a firm or authority to attend meetings, training or conferences. The invitation letter must explain the nature and duration of stay.
• Special for Conferences and Fairs: (Paid) proof of registration for events connected with trade, industry or work.

8. Proof of employment/student/sponsorship/retired/unemployment

    Employed:

• Recent, official and signed letter from their employer with name, date of issue, address, contact details, position of signatory and registration number in the United Kingdom. The position and salary of the employee should also be indicated.
• Pay slips for the last three months.

    Self-employed:

• Recent, official and signed letter from an accountant, banker or solicitor with name, date of issue, address, contact details, position of signatory and registration number in the United Kingdom, stating the nature of the self-employment or business ownership in the United Kingdom. The letter must also state the annual salary drawn from the company.
• Self-assessment form edited by revenue and customs authorities.

    Student:

• Recent, official and signed letter from school, college or university in the United Kingdom stating date of issue, name of the applicant, type of studies, number of lessons (hours) per week and attendance record.

    Sponsored:

• proof of sponsorship and a letter from the sponsor as well as copy of the sponsor’s photo ID (e.g., passport, residence permit card)

9. If the applicant is financially supported by:

• his/her spouse: a marriage certificate, the spouse’s bank account statements and a statement of will to support the spouse.
• her/his parent(s): proof of family relationship, e.g. birth certificate, the parent(s) bank account statement and a statement of will to support the applicant.

    Retired:

• pension statements for the last three months.
• proof of regular income generated by ownership of property or business.

    Unemployed:

• proof of sponsorship or proof of sufficient funds.

10. Proof of sufficient funds

• Original personal UK Bank Statement with applicant's name showing movements in the last three (3) months, duly stamped, and signed by the bank:
• Should be provided by all applicants regardless of sponsorship.
• 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.
• Credit card(s) and credit card account statement indicating the cardholder’s name and
  address. The statement must contain information on the monthly limit or the spending cap.

11. In case of minors (<18 years) traveling:

• If the minor is traveling with only one parent, written consent certified by public notary of the other parent or guardian, except in cases of a parent having sole custody or guardianship of the minor.
• If the minor travels alone (without parents), written consent from both parents or guardian having custody of the minor.
• A photocopy of both parents’ passports. If not, copies of the photo ID card with signature of the parents
• A photocopy of Birth certificate.

12. Copy of UK residence card/sticker (original UK residence permit must be shown at VFS). The UK residence permit must be valid for at least three (3) months after your return date from the Schengen area.

UK - Checklist

Business Visa Application Checklist

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:

1. The travel document must be valid for a minimum of three (3) months after the planned journey, issued within the previous 10 years and have at least two (2) blank pages. Provide previous old/cancelled passports – including any valid visas for Schengen or USA/UK (issued in last three years).

2. Online application form https://visa.government.is/. Printed and signed by the applicant.
Harmonized Schengen visa application form.
Both application forms must be submitted with the application.

3. One (1) passport photograph (max. 6 months old, on a white background, measuring 3.5 x 4.5 cm.)

4. Travel medical insurance, valid for all Schengen-countries. The insurance must cover the applicant for at least 30,000 Euros or equivalent, for all risks e.g., accident, illness, medical emergency evacuation etc. The policy must clearly specify the period of validity and must cover the entire duration of the trip including the date of arrival & departure.

5. Proof of Transportation - 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. Travel plan covering all the within Schengen area.

6. Proof of accommodation – Hotel reservations, rental of holiday home or campus residence reservation. If you intend to stay with a family member or a friend, proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation from the host. If you are travelling to several Schengen states, proof of accommodation in each of them.

7. If applicable, other purpose of visit (Visiting family/friends / Business / Conferences)

• Visiting family/friends: The online invitation form is available on https://island.is/en/get-a-visa/supporting-documents (Invitation Letter for visitors). The online sponsorship form is available on https://island.is/en/get-a-visa/supporting-documents (Guarantee form for visits). If no sponsorship form has been presented: copy of the biodata page of the passport or residence permit of the host in Iceland, if applicable proof of (family) relationship.
• Business/Conferences: Original signed invitation from a firm or authority to attend meetings, training or conferences. The invitation letter must explain the nature and duration of stay.
• Special for Conferences and Fairs: (Paid) proof of registration for events connected with trade, industry or work.

8. Proof of employment/student/sponsorship/retired/unemployment

    Employed:

• Recent, official and signed letter from their employer with name, date of issue, address, contact details, position of signatory and registration number in the United Kingdom. The position and salary of the employee should also be indicated.
• Pay slips for the last three months.

    Self-employed:

• Recent, official and signed letter from an accountant, banker or solicitor with name, date of issue, address, contact details, position of signatory and registration number in the United Kingdom, stating the nature of the self-employment or business ownership in the United Kingdom. The letter must also state the annual salary drawn from the company.
• Self-assessment form edited by revenue and customs authorities.

    Student:

• Recent, official and signed letter from school, college or university in the United Kingdom stating date of issue, name of the applicant, type of studies, number of lessons (hours) per week and attendance record.

    Sponsored:

• proof of sponsorship and a letter from the sponsor as well as copy of the sponsor’s photo ID (e.g., passport, residence permit card)

9. If the applicant is financially supported by:

• his/her spouse: a marriage certificate, the spouse’s bank account statements and a statement of will to support the spouse.
• her/his parent(s): proof of family relationship, e.g. birth certificate, the parent(s) bank account statement and a statement of will to support the applicant.

    Retired:

• pension statements for the last three months.
• proof of regular income generated by ownership of property or business.

    Unemployed:

• proof of sponsorship or proof of sufficient funds.

10. Proof of sufficient funds

• Original personal UK Bank Statement with applicant's name showing movements in the last three (3) months, duly stamped, and signed by the bank:
• Should be provided by all applicants regardless of sponsorship.
• 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.
• Credit card(s) and credit card account statement indicating the cardholder’s name and
  address. The statement must contain information on the monthly limit or the spending cap.

11. In case of minors (<18 years) traveling:

• If the minor is traveling with only one parent, written consent certified by public notary of the other parent or guardian, except in cases of a parent having sole custody or guardianship of the minor.
• If the minor travels alone (without parents), written consent from both parents or guardian having custody of the minor.
• A photocopy of both parents’ passports. If not, copies of the photo ID card with signature of the parents
• A photocopy of Birth certificate.

12. Copy of UK residence card/sticker (original UK residence permit must be shown at VFS). The UK residence permit must be valid for at least three (3) months after your return date from the Schengen area.

UK - Checklist

Sports, Study, Culture Visa Application Checklist 

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:

1. The travel document must be valid for a minimum of three (3) months after the planned journey, issued within the previous 10 years and have at least two (2) blank pages. Provide previous old/cancelled passports – including any valid visas for Schengen or USA/UK (issued in last three years).

2. Online application form https://visa.government.is/. Printed and signed by the applicant.
Harmonized Schengen visa application form.
Both application forms must be submitted with the application.

3. One (1) passport photograph (max. 6 months old, on a white background, measuring 3.5 x 4.5 cm.)

4. Travel medical insurance, valid for all Schengen-countries. The insurance must cover the applicant for at least 30,000 Euros or equivalent, for all risks e.g., accident, illness, medical emergency evacuation etc. The policy must clearly specify the period of validity and must cover the entire duration of the trip including the date of arrival & departure.

5. Proof of Transportation - 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. Travel plan covering all the within Schengen area.

6. Proof of accommodation – Hotel reservations, rental of holiday home or campus residence reservation. If you intend to stay with a family member or a friend, proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation from the host. If you are travelling to several Schengen states, proof of accommodation in each of them.

7. If applicable, other purpose of visit (Visiting family/friends / Business / Conferences)

• Visiting family/friends: The online invitation form is available on https://island.is/en/get-a-visa/supporting-documents (Invitation Letter for visitors). The online sponsorship form is available on https://island.is/en/get-a-visa/supporting-documents (Guarantee form for visits). If no sponsorship form has been presented: copy of the biodata page of the passport or residence permit of the host in Iceland, if applicable proof of (family) relationship.
• Business/Conferences: Original signed invitation from a firm or authority to attend meetings, training or conferences. The invitation letter must explain the nature and duration of stay.
• Special for Conferences and Fairs: (Paid) proof of registration for events connected with trade, industry or work.

8. Proof of employment/student/sponsorship/retired/unemployment

    Employed:

• Recent, official and signed letter from their employer with name, date of issue, address, contact details, position of signatory and registration number in the United Kingdom. The position and salary of the employee should also be indicated.
• Pay slips for the last three months.

    Self-employed:

• Recent, official and signed letter from an accountant, banker or solicitor with name, date of issue, address, contact details, position of signatory and registration number in the United Kingdom, stating the nature of the self-employment or business ownership in the United Kingdom. The letter must also state the annual salary drawn from the company.
• Self-assessment form edited by revenue and customs authorities.

    Student:

• Recent, official and signed letter from school, college or university in the United Kingdom stating date of issue, name of the applicant, type of studies, number of lessons (hours) per week and attendance record.

    Sponsored:

• proof of sponsorship and a letter from the sponsor as well as copy of the sponsor’s photo ID (e.g., passport, residence permit card)

9. If the applicant is financially supported by:

• his/her spouse: a marriage certificate, the spouse’s bank account statements and a statement of will to support the spouse.
• her/his parent(s): proof of family relationship, e.g. birth certificate, the parent(s) bank account statement and a statement of will to support the applicant.

    Retired:

• pension statements for the last three months.
• proof of regular income generated by ownership of property or business.

    Unemployed:

• proof of sponsorship or proof of sufficient funds.

10. Proof of sufficient funds

• Original personal UK Bank Statement with applicant's name showing movements in the last three (3) months, duly stamped, and signed by the bank:
• Should be provided by all applicants regardless of sponsorship.
• 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.
• Credit card(s) and credit card account statement indicating the cardholder’s name and
  address. The statement must contain information on the monthly limit or the spending cap.

11. In case of minors (<18 years) traveling:

• If the minor is traveling with only one parent, written consent certified by public notary of the other parent or guardian, except in cases of a parent having sole custody or guardianship of the minor.
• If the minor travels alone (without parents), written consent from both parents or guardian having custody of the minor.
• A photocopy of both parents’ passports. If not, copies of the photo ID card with signature of the parents
• A photocopy of Birth certificate.

12. Copy of UK residence card/sticker (original UK residence permit must be shown at VFS). The UK residence permit must be valid for at least three (3) months after your return date from the Schengen area.

UK - Checklist

Transit Visa Application Checklist

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:

1. 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.

2. 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 is available in English on the following page: visa.government.is

3. Photograph

• One recent original passport-size color photograph with white background. Photograph should not be older than six months.

4. Proof of Legal Residence in the United Kingdom

• A valid UK residence permit (original and photocopy), endorsed in the passport or issued as a Biometrics card. The permit must be valid at least three months after your departure from the Schengen area.

5. Proof of employment or studies

• If employed
  • an employer’s letter on official letterhead confirming the applicants start date and continued employment and /or pay slips for the last three months. The letter should state the date of issue, name, address, telephone number and position of signatory and registration number in the United Kingdom
• If self-employed
  • Original letter from a solicitor, accountant or Companies House confirming self-employment status or business ownership in the United Kingdom.
• If student
  • A recent signed student letter from the school, college or university confirming the applicant’s enrollment and indicating the start and end date of his/her studies.
• If unemployed or retired
  • A recent original letter obtained from local Job Centre or Department for Work and Pensions.
• If being sponsored by spouse
  • Sponsorship letter.
  • Copy of sponsor’s passport.
  • Marriage certificate – original and a copy (if the document was issued outside of the EU and is not in English, it must be translated by a certified translator in the UK).
  • Sponsor’s employment letter.
  • Sponsor’s last 3 months bank statements of UK current bank account.

6. 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. 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. 

7. 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).

8. Proof of Financial means

• Latest 3 months UK current or savings account bank statements showing applicant’s name, address and an end balance dated within the last month on the visa application submission date.
• If no bank account, travelers’ cheques that’ should be in the applicant's name and showing details and balance for sufficient means of subsistence both for the duration of intended stay and for the return to the UK or country of origin.

9. Minor Applicant

• Original birth certificate and photocopy.
• If the minor is travelling with only one parent, written 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), written 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.

10. 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 USA/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.

11. General Information

• All documents should be provided in A4 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.

Transit Visa Seamen Application Checklist

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:

1. 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.

2. 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 is available in English on the following page: visa.government.is

3. Photograph

One recent original passport-size color photograph with white background. Photograph should not be older than six months.

4. Proof of Legal Residence in the United Kingdom
   A valid UK residence permit (original and photocopy), endorsed in the passport or issued as a Biometrics card. The permit must be valid at least three months after your departure from the Schengen area.
5. Employment contract or appointment letter
   A proof of employment or appointment showing duration of employment/appointment.
6. Seaman‘s book
7. 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. 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.
8. 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.
9. Proof of Lodging
   In case of overnight stay - 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.
10. An invitation from the shipping company/maritime agency in Iceland containing the following details:
    • Name and family name of the seafarer
    • Place and date of birth, passport number, seafarer's book number
    • Date of issue, period of validity of passport and the seafarer’s book
    • The seafarer's position on the vessel (if there are several seafarers, their information can be included in a list, signed and stamped, and annexed to the invitation letter)
    • Name and flag of the boat
    • Port and date of boarding and disembarking
    • Itinerary that the seafarer will follow to arrive in the Member State of destination/ transit (including date and entry point (airport) to the Schengen area)
    • In the letter of invitation, the shipping company/maritime agency based in Iceland should indicate the name and address of the UK agency it is collaborating with and will be responsible for submitting the visa applications.
    • The shipping company/maritime agency based in Iceland is also required to indicate that it will bear all responsibility for the seafarer upon his/her arrival in Iceland (including in the event of repatriation) and ensure that he/ she boards the ship.
    • If the visa application is presented by a shipping company/maritime agency of the UK, a covering letter by the agency/company including the list of seafarers applying.
11. Proof of Financial means
    • Latest 3 months UK current or savings account bank statements showing applicant’s name, address and an end balance dated within the last month on the visa application submission date.
    • If no bank account, travelers’ cheques that’ should be in the applicant's name and showing details and balance for sufficient means of subsistence both for the duration of intended stay and for the return to the UK or country of origin.
12. 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 USA/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.
13. General Information
    • All documents should be provided in A4 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.

Official Visa Application Checklist

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:

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 is available in English on the following page: visa.government.is

Photograph

• One recent original passport-size color photograph with white background. Photograph should not be older than six months.

Diplomatic Note Verbale

• Diplomatic Note Verbale from your Ministry stating the reasons for the trip, including dates, names of participants, their ranks, passport numbers.
• Information about Official Ministries, Organizations and/or businesses visited in Iceland.

Invitation letter

• A signed invitation letter from the Icelandic company containing:
  • Name of the invited applicant,
  • Purpose of visit,
  • Dates of the intended stay,
  • Nature of costs being covered (boarding & lodging).
• Completely filled form from the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration available on the following website. Invitation form.

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

• In case of overnight stay - 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.

Proof of Financial means

• Latest 3 months UK current or savings account bank statements showing applicant’s name, address and an end balance dated within the last month on the visa application submission date.
• If no bank account, travelers’ cheques that’ should be in the applicant's name and showing details and balance for sufficient means of subsistence both for the duration of intended stay and for the return to the UK or country of origin.

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 90 days in any 180 day 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, Croatia, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.

Who can apply for a Schengen Visa in the United Kingdom?

 Third-country nationals who are legally present in the United Kingdom.

Third-country nationals legally present but not residing in the United Kingdom, if the applicant provides justification for lodging the application in the United Kingdom.

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:

1. the Member State whose territory constitutes the sole destination of the visit(s).
2. 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.
3. 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.
4.  

Which consulate of the member state in the United Kingdom (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 the consulate of the destination country. Please check the web site of the Member State through the links above.

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 of Gambia shall pay a visa fee of EUR 120
• The visa fee must be paid in local currency.

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:

1. children under six years.
2. school pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training.
3. researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation No 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005 to facilitate the issue by the Member States of uniform short-stay visas for researchers from third countries travelling within the Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research;
4. representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations.
5. diplomats traveling on official business

Note: some Member States grant additional visa fee waivers for specific categories of applicants.

Service fee

An additional service fee, EUR 23, will be charged by an external service provider, VFS Global.

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 considering national holidays of the country of destination and the United Kingdom. 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 in the tabs above or visit the VFS website.

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 national, you may qualify for an accelerated free visa procedure as long as you meet the following criteria:

• 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
• 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
• 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.

Supporting documents, information and proof pursuant to the Visa Code that family members of EU citizens do not have to provide: documents indicating the purpose of the journey, envisaged by Article 14(1)(a) of the Visa Code46;

• documents relating to accommodation (or proof of sufficient means to cover his/her accommodation), envisaged by Article 14(1)(b) of the Visa Code;
• documents indicating that they possesses sufficient means of subsistence both for the duration of the intended stay and for the return to their country of origin or residence, or for the transit to a third country into which they are certain to be admitted, or that they are in a position to acquire such means lawfully, in accordance with Article 6(1)(c) and (3) of the Schengen Borders Code, envisaged by Article 14(1)(c) of the Visa Code;
• information enabling an assessment of their intention to leave the territory of the Member States before the expiry of the visa applied for, envisaged by Article 14(1)(d) of the Visa Code;
• proof of sponsorship or private accommodation, envisaged by Article 14(4) of the Visa Code; or
• proof that they are in possession of adequate and valid travel medical insurance to cover any expenses which might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention and/or emergency hospital treatment or death, during their stay(s) on the territory of the Member States, envisaged by Article 15 of the Visa Code

For further information please visit the website of the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration

Biometrics

Applicants fingerprints and photo are commonly referred to as biometric data.

Applicants need to appear in person for the collection of the biometric data: ten fingerprints and a photograph are collected from persons applying for a visa.

Before the capturing of the photo, applicants may be asked to remove glasses or adjust head coverings if they hide facial features.

Certain categories of applicants are exempt from the requirement to give fingerprints, including:

• Children under the age of 12
• Persons for whom fingerprinting is physically impossible
• Heads of State and members of national governments, and members of their official delegations when invited for an official purpose.
• Sovereigns and other senior members of a royal family, when they are invited by Member States' governments or by international organizations for an official purpose.

The introduction of biometric data is part of the Schengen Visa Information System (VIS). For more information about VIS, fingerprints, data protection and legal background, please click here.

Complaints

Please refer your complaints to [email protected]

Consultation

Please note that certain third country nationals might be subject to prior consultation as stipulated in article 22 of the visa code.

• Schengen Visa Application Form
• Procedure at VFS Visa Application Centre
• Biometric Data Collection Requirements
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Checklist Missing Documents and Comments
• Invitation Letter
• UK - Checklist