Iceland: Schengen Guide for UK Travellers
Yes, Iceland is a member of the Schengen zone, but it is not in the European Union. This places Iceland in the same category as Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein: countries that participate in the Schengen Agreement without being EU members. Every day you spend in Iceland counts toward your 90-day Schengen allowance within any rolling 180-day period.
Iceland has become one of the most sought-after destinations for UK travellers, offering volcanic landscapes, geothermal pools, glaciers, waterfalls, and the Northern Lights. Despite its remote location in the North Atlantic, it is surprisingly accessible from the UK with short direct flights. Iceland uses its own currency, the Icelandic Krona, and is one of the more expensive Schengen destinations, but the otherworldly scenery makes it a bucket-list trip for many.
Key Facts
- Schengen Member: Yes
- EU Member: No
- Year Joined Schengen: 2001
- Capital: Reykjavik
- Currency: Icelandic Krona (ISK)
- Languages: Icelandic
Iceland is in the Schengen zone but is NOT a member of the European Union. Like Norway and Switzerland, Iceland participates in Schengen through a special association agreement. Days in Iceland count toward your 90-day Schengen allowance.
Visiting Iceland?
Iceland is Schengen but not EU, which catches some travellers off guard. Every day exploring glaciers and geysers counts toward your 90-day limit. Use Entorii to track your Icelandic adventure alongside all your other European trips.
How Long Can You Stay?
UK passport holders can stay in Iceland (and the wider Schengen zone) for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period without a visa. Because Iceland is a Schengen member, your days there are pooled with time spent in any other Schengen country. A week in Iceland followed by a fortnight in Spain and a weekend in Paris all draw from the same 90-day allowance.
Most UK visitors to Iceland stay for 5 to 10 days. A week is enough to drive the Golden Circle, explore the south coast, and visit the Blue Lagoon. The full Ring Road circuit around the island typically takes 10 to 14 days. Iceland's high costs naturally limit the length of most trips, and these durations sit well within the 90-day Schengen limit for most travellers.
Top Destinations in Iceland
Reykjavik (2-3 days)
The world's most northerly capital, with colourful streets, the Harpa concert hall, and a thriving food scene.
Golden Circle (1-2 days)
The classic route taking in Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
South Coast (2-3 days)
Black sand beaches at Vik, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, and the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
Blue Lagoon (1 day)
Iceland's famous geothermal spa set in a black lava field near Keflavik Airport.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula (1-2 days)
Kirkjufell mountain, dramatic coastlines, lava fields, and the Snaefellsjokull glacier volcano.
Getting There from the UK
Direct flights from the UK to Reykjavik Keflavik Airport operate from London (Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton), Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Flight times are three to three and a half hours. Icelandair and PLAY are the main carriers, with easyJet and Wizz Air also running seasonal services. Icelandair offers a free Stopover programme allowing you to break a transatlantic journey with up to seven nights in Iceland at no extra flight cost, which is worth considering if you are heading to North America.
Travel Tips
Iceland is expensive. Expect to pay significantly more than UK prices for food, drink, and accommodation. Supermarkets like Bonus and Kronan offer the best value for self-catering. A hot dog from the famous Baejarins Beztu stand in Reykjavik is the classic budget meal. Alcohol is particularly costly; the duty-free shop at Keflavik Airport on arrival is the cheapest option for purchasing drinks for your trip.
Driving in Iceland requires preparation. The Ring Road (Route 1) is paved and well maintained, but F-roads into the highlands require a 4x4 and are only open in summer. Weather changes rapidly: check vedur.is daily and carry warm layers even in July. Book the Blue Lagoon well in advance as it frequently sells out. For the Northern Lights, visit between September and March and head away from Reykjavik's light pollution for the best views.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iceland in the Schengen zone?
Yes. Iceland has been a member of the Schengen zone since 2001 through a special association agreement. It is not a member of the European Union. All days spent in Iceland count toward the 90-day Schengen limit for UK passport holders.
Is Iceland in the EU?
No. Iceland is not a member of the European Union. It has its own currency (Icelandic Krona), its own fisheries policy, and its own government. However, it is a full member of the Schengen zone and the European Economic Area (EEA).
How long can a UK citizen stay in Iceland?
UK citizens can stay in Iceland for up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period under the Schengen rules. This is a combined limit across all 29 Schengen countries, not specific to Iceland alone.
What currency does Iceland use?
Iceland uses the Icelandic Krona (ISK). The Euro is not accepted. Credit and debit cards are used almost everywhere in Iceland, even for very small purchases, so you may not need much cash. ATMs are available in Reykjavik and larger towns.
When is the best time to visit Iceland from the UK?
Summer (June to August) offers midnight sun, accessible highland roads, and the warmest weather. Winter (October to March) is best for the Northern Lights and ice caves. Shoulder months (May and September) balance decent weather with lower prices. Each season offers a very different experience of the country.