Iceland Visa RequirementsFor Ireland passport holders
Irish citizens travel to Iceland without a visa. Iceland is a Schengen member through the European Economic Area (EEA), not as an EU member. Irish passport holders can enter freely, though the EU freedom of movement status differs slightly from full EU destinations.
Great news! Ireland passport holders can enter Iceland without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa is needed for stays up to 90 days. Present your Irish passport on arrival at Keflavik International Airport. If you plan to work or study in Iceland, you will need to apply for a residence permit from the Directorate of Immigration.
Iceland is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Ireland to Iceland: What You Need to Know
Iceland is a member of the Schengen Area through its EEA/EFTA membership, meaning there are no passport checks when arriving from other Schengen countries. For Irish citizens arriving directly from Ireland, a passport is required as Ireland is outside Schengen. Irish citizens can stay in Iceland for up to 90 days without any visa. For longer stays to work or study, Iceland has its own permit system since it is not an EU member, so EU freedom of movement does not apply in the same way as within the EU.
How to Get There
Iceland is a destination unto itself but can be combined with a Faroe Islands stopover on Icelandair flights routed through Reykjavik. Greenland is also accessible by air from Reykjavik, offering one of the most remote travel experiences possible.
Money & Banking
Iceland uses the Icelandic Krona (ISK). Cards are accepted virtually everywhere, making Iceland one of the most cashless societies in the world. ATMs are available at the airport and in Reykjavik but rarely needed. Some rural guesthouses and farms accept card only.
Practical Tips
Iceland is one of the world's most unique travel destinations, with the Northern Lights, midnight sun, geysers, and glaciers. The Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon are the most visited attractions. Driving the Ring Road (Route 1) takes 7 to 10 days. Iceland is expensive: budget at least EUR 150 to 200 per day for accommodation and meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Irish citizens need a visa for Iceland?
No. Irish citizens can visit Iceland for up to 90 days without a visa. Iceland is a Schengen and EEA member.
Does EU freedom of movement apply in Iceland?
Ireland and Iceland are not in the same legal framework. As an EEA member, Iceland grants Irish citizens rights similar to EU freedom of movement under the EEA Agreement, which effectively allows Irish citizens to live and work in Iceland with appropriate registration.
What currency does Iceland use?
Iceland uses the Icelandic Krona (ISK). Cards are accepted virtually everywhere and Iceland is almost entirely cashless.
How expensive is Iceland?
Iceland is one of Europe's most expensive countries, broadly comparable to or exceeding Ireland in most cost categories. Budget at least EUR 150 to 200 per day.
When can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
The Northern Lights are visible from late September to late March, with peak activity around midwinter. Clear, dark skies away from Reykjavik are best.
Are there direct flights from Ireland to Iceland?
Yes. Icelandair operates direct flights from Dublin to Reykjavik Keflavik year-round. Journey time is approximately 2.5 hours.
What is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is a famous geothermal spa near Reykjavik, known for its milky blue silica-rich mineral water. Booking well in advance is essential as it sells out quickly.