Iceland: Authorities modify coronavirus disease-related entry restrictions as of Jan. 20 /update 8

Iceland modifies COVID-19-related entry restrictions as of Jan. 20. Domestic restrictions remain in place.

Event

As part of ongoing efforts to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), authorities in Iceland have modified international entry restrictions. As of Jan. 20, all passengers arriving in Iceland must undergo a COVID-19 test at their point of entry, self-isolate for 5-6 days, and take a second COVID-19 test. Passengers who have a certificate of COVID-19 vaccination, or certificate of previous COVID-19 infection, as well as passengers in transit are exempt. Passengers will no longer be able to self-isolate for 14 days without taking COVID-19 tests.

Under most circumstances, travelers from EU and Schengen Area states, as well as those from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand, can enter Iceland. Most travelers from other locations remain prohibited from entering with some exceptions, such as freight and transport workers, immediate family members of Icelandic residents, diplomats, students, individuals conducting necessary work, and persons traveling for urgent family reasons. All permitted arrivals are required to fill out a preregistration form before departing for Iceland and observe the aforementioned testing and self-isolation period. These measures are in effect until Feb. 1, at least.

Since Jan. 1, travelers from the UK are not be permitted to enter Iceland for nonessential purposes due to the end of the transitional Brexit period, which will make UK travelers nonexempt from Iceland's entry restrictions.

Domestic Restrictions
Authorities are maintaining some domestic COVID-19 restrictions as of Jan. 20. The permitted size of gatherings is generally 10 persons, though certain assemblies such as those at schools, universities, and for funerals may have slightly more attendees. Restaurants are permitted to remain open for indoor service until 2200. Businesses that remain open must adhere to strict hygiene and social distancing measures. Facemasks must be worn where social distancing of 2 meters (6.5 feet) cannot be observed.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Heed all official advisories and remain nonconfrontational if stopped by authorities. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.