United States Visa RequirementsFor Iceland passport holders
Icelandic passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Iceland passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Iceland to United States: What You Need to Know
Iceland has been a member of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991, reflecting a transatlantic relationship anchored in shared NATO membership (Iceland is a founding NATO member) and historical ties including a long-standing US military presence at Keflavik. Iceland serves as a geographic stepping stone between North America and Europe, and Icelandic carrier Icelandair has long marketed Iceland as a transatlantic connecting hub. Many Americans are familiar with Iceland as a stopover, and Iceland benefits from substantial US tourism in return. If you hold dual Icelandic and non-VWP nationality, use your Icelandic passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
Icelandair flies nonstop from Reykjavik Keflavik (KEF) to many US cities including New York (JFK/EWR), Boston (BOS), Washington (IAD), Chicago (ORD), Minneapolis (MSP), Denver (DEN), Seattle (SEA), San Francisco (SFO), and Los Angeles (LAX). Icelandair also offers stopover deals if you want to combine US travel with a stay in Iceland.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is very different from Iceland: in the US, tipping 18-20% at restaurants is expected and is not optional. Budget $1-2 at bars, a few dollars for taxis, and a few dollars daily for hotel housekeeping. The Icelandic Krona (ISK) is not accepted in the US; exchange at the airport or use ATMs on arrival.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. Icelandic travelers are well-acquainted with the transatlantic route. The 90-day limit is firm. Carry proof of your return ticket. US customs officers may ask about your itinerary: have hotel details ready. Tipping in the US is very different from Iceland, where it is not customary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Icelandic citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Iceland has been part of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991. Icelandic passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must have an approved ESTA before boarding.
How do Icelanders apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the online form, pay $21, and receive approval, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
What direct flights are available from Iceland to the United States?
Icelandair flies nonstop from Reykjavik Keflavik (KEF) to New York (JFK/EWR), Boston (BOS), Washington (IAD), Chicago (ORD), Minneapolis (MSP), Denver (DEN), Seattle (SEA), San Francisco (SFO), and Los Angeles (LAX).
How long can Icelandic citizens stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. This cannot be extended under VWP status.
Can Icelandic citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA covers tourism, transit, and business meetings only. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. Approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision.
What happens if an Icelandic traveler overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying is a serious violation. Consequences include deportation, VWP ineligibility, and difficulties with future US visas.
Can I use the Icelandair stopover program and still travel to the US on ESTA?
Yes. If you are a VWP-eligible traveler, you can use Icelandair's stopover in Iceland and still enter the US on ESTA, as long as your ESTA is valid.