22 Feb 2021 | 07:42 PM UTC
Iceland: COVID-19-related restrictions on international entry and domestic business, gatherings remain in effect as of Feb. 22 /update 9
Iceland enforcing COVID-19-related entry restrictions as of Feb. 22; domestic restrictions remain in place.
Event
Authorities in Iceland are continuing to enforce a number of restrictions on international travel and domestic activities as of Feb. 22 as part of efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19. With regard to international travel, most incoming travelers must present a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain rection (PCR) test result taken within 72 hours prior to departure for Iceland. In addition, arrivals must undergo a COVID-19 test at their point of entry and self-isolate for 5-6 days before taking a second test. Passengers who have a certificate of COVID-19 vaccination or certificate of previous COVID-19 infection, as well as those who are in transit, are exempt.
Under most circumstances, travelers from EU and Schengen Area states, as well as those from Australia, 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 must complete a preregistration form before departing for Iceland and observe the aforementioned testing and self-isolation period.
Domestic Restrictions
Certain domestic COVID-19 restrictions will remain in effect until at least March 3. The maximum permitted size of gatherings is generally 20 persons. 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.
