Iceland Transit Visa Guide (2026)

This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor. For application guidance, see How to Apply for an Iceland Visa (2026).

Travellers passing through Iceland en route to another country may need a Schengen Transit Visa (Type A or C). This guide explains who needs an Iceland transit visa, what documents are required, and how to apply in 2026. Iceland follows common Schengen visa policy rules under Regulation (EU) 810/2009.

When a Transit Visa Is Required

You must apply for an Iceland Transit Visa if you:

If you must exit the airport or stay overnight in Iceland, you need a short-stay Schengen C Visa instead of a transit visa.

• Are a citizen of a country that requires an airport transit visa to pass through the Schengen Area.
• Will transit through Keflavík International Airport (KEF) en route to a non-Schengen destination.
• Will not exit the international transit zone of the airport but remain airside between flights.

Who Does Not Need an Iceland Transit Visa

You do not need a transit visa if you:

Always confirm airline and border control requirements before departure, as exemptions vary by route and nationality.

• Hold a valid visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen, EEA, or EU member state.
• Are a national of a country with a Schengen visa-waiver agreement (e.g., UK, USA, Canada, Japan).
• Hold a valid visa for entry into the United States, Canada, or Japan and are travelling to or from those countries.
• Will not leave the international transit area of the airport during your connection.

Airport Transit Visa (Type A) vs. Short-Stay Transit Visa (Type C)

If you are uncertain which visa applies, contact your nearest Icelandic embassy or consulate before booking.

• Type A (Airport Transit Visa): For travellers remaining within the international zone of Keflavík Airport while connecting to a non-Schengen destination.
• Type C (Short-Stay Visa): For travellers needing to exit the airport or stay in Iceland temporarily between connecting flights.

Documents Required

Applicants must provide:

Refer to Documents Required for Iceland Visa (2026) for full checklist details.

• Completed Schengen visa application form.
• Valid passport (minimum three months’ validity beyond travel).
• Flight reservation showing Iceland as a transit point.
• Visa or entry permit for the final destination (if required).
• Travel and health insurance covering the transit duration.
• Recent passport-sized photograph meeting Schengen standards.

How to Apply

Applications for Iceland transit visas are made through VFS Global or the embassy representing Iceland in your country.

• Book an appointment with the relevant VFS Global centre or embassy.
• Complete the Schengen visa form and prepare the supporting documents.
• Attend a biometric appointment and pay the visa fee.
• Wait for your application to be processed, normally within 15 days.

Visa Fees and Processing Time

• Fee: €90 for adults, €45 for children aged 6 to 11.
• Processing time: 15 to 30 calendar days depending on the embassy and season.
• Priority service: May be available in some countries for an additional fee.

Airlines Requiring Transit Visa Verification

Before check-in, airlines must verify whether your nationality requires a transit visa.

Travellers without the correct visa may be denied boarding. Check current requirements through:

• Icelandic Directorate of Immigration (UTL)
• Icelandic Embassy Network
• VFS Global Iceland Portal

Related Guidance

• How to Apply for an Iceland Visa (2026)
• Eligibility and Entry Requirements
• Documents Required for Iceland Visa
• Visa Processing and Embassy Timelines

About This Page

Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team

Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.