Iceland is an isolated Nordic country in the continent of Europe with geysers, volcanoes, lava fields, and hot springs, to mention a few, and welcomes Indians who have Iceland visas for Indians. The country is a member of the Schengen zone, so it officially issued Schengen visas to eligible visas. Only a few come to this part of Europe, but those who are brave enough to weather the winter will be thrilled to see landscapes not found elsewhere on Earth. As an Indian citizen, you can visit the country only with a visa.
Traveling To Iceland From India
Any Indian citizen who wishes to visit Iceland for more than three months must submit an application to the Immigration Directorate, and once their application is approved, they can then travel to Iceland to get a special document called Kennitala. Indians can apply for an airport transit visa, a short-term visa, or even a long-term visa carrying between 1-5 years of validity.
Of all the visas issued by the Icelandic government, the Schengen visa is the most notable one.
Iceland Schengen Visa
Iceland is a member of the Schengen Zone and a visa issuer. The Schengen visa is more like a tourist visa that allows the holder to visit Iceland and any other country in the region. Once a country signs the Schengen Agreement, it officially becomes a borderless country and allows citizens from other Schengen countries to visit freely without visas. However, holders of Schengen visas issued by other member states can also visit.
Schengen visas are mostly for Tourism, leisure, and business trips, and it is flexible and valid for six months from the day it is issued. Holders can visit and stay in Iceland or any other Schengen nation for 90 days as long as they respect the 90/180 rule.
What Is The 90/180 Days Rule?
This rule checks visitors entering the Schengen Area to ensure they do not overstay their visas. Due to the free exit and entry policy of the Schengen visa program, holders of this visa are free to visit and stay in one or more Schengen countries for up to 90 days. However, they must stay a day at most 180 days. The rule stands even if they visit more than one country. So to avoid overstaying, calculate the number of days starting from the day you set foot in Iceland or any country in the zone and place a marker on the last day.
Where To Apply For Iceland Visa For Indians
Whether you apply for a Schengen visa or any other Icelandic visa, you must approach one of two centers for it.
Iceland Embassy: You may visit the embassy to submit your documents and application form for the visa in person or through an intermediary, depending on the modus operands of the embassy.
Visa Application Center: Another option is to use the services of a visa application center.
This option is viable for persons who don’t live close to an embassy, and using their services will cost extra charges.
Iceland Visa Processing Time
The processing time for an Icelandic Schengen visa is 30-45 days, depending on your specific situation.
If you are using the services of a visa center, the processing time may take a little while longer. Also, note they the season also influences visa application.
Is There An Application Fee?
The application fee for Schengen visas is standard regardless of the country. The standard fee for visa applicants 12 years and above is €80, while the fee for children under 12 is €40. There are no fees for children under 6, and this fee is not refundable.
When Is The Best Time To Apply For The Visa?
Submitting your application at least a month before your trip is best. Suppose the embassy deals with a large volume of applications, or you have no choice but to use a visa application center. In that case, you may need to submit the application six weeks in advance to avoid disappointments or delays.
Iceland Visa For Indians Documentary Requirements
Now that you know the features of an Icelandic Schengen visa, we should take you through the required documents.
A completed application form
Valid Indian passport
Growth insurance with a minimum €30,000 cover
Proof of accommodation
Two recent photographs
Cover letter
Return flight ticket
Proof of financial means
Visa fee
These documents must be packaged in a file and submitted to the visa officer for review. Depending on the procedure in your country, you may be asked questions about your trip before your application is approved.
Note that this Schengen Iceland visa for Indians is not a work or study visa. If you wish to work or study in Iceland, you will need a Long term residency visa Instead.