# Iceland visa for Nepali citizens

> Apply for a Iceland visa from Nepal with Yatra — required documents, processing time, embassy fees, dummy ticket support, and concierge in Kathmandu.

Canonical page: https://yatraforfun.com/visa/iceland
Last updated: 2026-04-26

## Embassy / mission

- **Mission:** Royal Norwegian Embassy — New Delhi (represents Iceland for visa applications under Nordic Cooperation; consular jurisdiction over Nepal + Bhutan + Sri Lanka)
- **Address:** 50-C Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021, India
- **Phone:** +91 11 4177 9200
- **Email:** emb.newdelhi@mfa.no
- **Hours:** Mon–Thu 09:00–16:00, Fri 09:00–13:00 (consular by appointment). Iceland Type C visa decisions issued by the Royal Norwegian Embassy on behalf of Iceland; Type D residence permits decided by Útlendingastofnun in Reykjavík.
- **Application centre:** VFS Global Norway-Iceland Visa Application Centre — Kathmandu — Chhaya Devi Complex, 3rd Floor, Amrit Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu (shared VFS Global building used for multiple Schengen missions). Mon–Fri 09:00–16:00 submission, 15:00–17:00 collection. Accepts Iceland Type C short-stay intake under the Norway-Iceland Nordic representation arrangement. Book appointment at visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/nor and select "Iceland" as the destination.
- **Online portal:** https://island.is (Icelandic government portal — mandatory online filing for Type D residence permits) · https://www.utl.is/en (Útlendingastofnun / Directorate of Immigration — Type D adjudication, processing-time tracker) · https://visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/nor (VFS Norway-Iceland Nepal — Type C intake) · https://www.norway.no/en/india — Royal Norwegian Embassy New Delhi (represents Iceland) · https://www.government.is/topics/foreign-affairs/visa-and-residence-permits — Iceland MFA visa policy
- **Payment:** Type C visa fee + VFS service charge in cash NPR or by card / QR at the VFS Kathmandu counter. For Type D, the Útlendingastofnun fee is paid online at island.is when filing the application; identification-visit fee at VFS Kathmandu (or VFS Delhi for biometrics) is paid in cash NPR / INR at the appointment.

## Visa categories

### Tourist — Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) — Tourism

**Purpose:** Tourism, sightseeing, leisure travel within Iceland and the wider Schengen Area.
**Stay duration:** Maximum 90 days within any 180-day rolling period.
**Validity:** Up to 5 years multi-entry depending on travel history; first-time applicants typically receive single- or double-entry sticker matched to the trip.
**Entries:** Single (1), Double (2), or Multiple (MULT).
**Processing time:** 15 calendar days standard at the Royal Norwegian Embassy Delhi (acting for Iceland); up to 30 days in justified cases; max 45 days when extra documentation is requested. Iceland files often decided faster than Norway files due to lower volume.
**How to apply:** Apply online at visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/nor -> select "Iceland" as the destination -> fill Schengen application + upload documents -> pay fee online OR at counter -> book biometric appointment at VFS Kathmandu -> submit biometrics + originals -> wait for Royal Norwegian Embassy decision -> courier passport collection at VFS.
**Financial requirement:** Bank statement (last 3 months) showing capacity for the trip — recommended ending balance NPR 7 lakh (7,00,000)+ for a typical 7–14-day Iceland trip — plus 3-year Income Tax Returns and an international credit card with 3-month statement. Iceland is one of the most expensive Schengen destinations: Icelandic consular officers reference ISK 8,000–12,000/day (≈ EUR 53–80) as the per-diem benchmark for proof-of-funds calculations.

**Required documents:**

- Schengen visa application form (signed) — Filed online at visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/nor; printed and signed. Available in English.
- Nepali passport (issued within last 10 years; ≥ 3 months validity beyond visa expiry; ≥ 2 blank back-to-back pages) — Plus photocopies of front + last + every used page of the current passport AND last 2 old passports.
- Two passport-size photos (35 × 45 mm, white background, < 6 months old) — Color, glossy, neutral expression, head 70–80 % of frame, no glasses / hats / patterned background.
- Schengen-approved travel medical insurance (minimum EUR 30,000 coverage) — Covers urgent medical, hospitalisation, and repatriation throughout the Schengen Area for the entire stay.
- Confirmed return air ticket (reservation only at file-prep stage) — Yatra dummy ticket (NPR 999) acceptable.
- Confirmed accommodation in Iceland for the entire stay — Hotel booking, private rental contract, or invitation-letter accommodation. Iceland accommodation is expensive — typical EUR 150+/night for budget hotels in Reykjavík.
- Detailed travel itinerary (locations, duration per location) — If multi-Schengen trip, Iceland must be the main destination (longest stay) for the visa to be filed at this Embassy.
- Cover letter explaining purpose of trip — Addressed to the Royal Norwegian Embassy, New Delhi (acting on behalf of Iceland); outlines who, why, where, when, who funds the trip, and why you will return.
- Bank statement (last 3 months, NPR 7 lakh ending balance recommended) — Original on bank letterhead, signed and stamped, in English. Higher balance threshold than other Schengen destinations because Iceland is significantly more expensive.
- Income Tax Returns (last 3 years, personal + company as applicable) — Notarised English translations.
- International credit card copy + last 3 months statement *(conditional)* — Strengthens financial profile when bank balance is borderline.
- Proof of social / professional status — Employed: employer letter on letterhead. Self-employed: company registration + PAN. Student: institution leave letter + valid ID.
- Nepali citizenship certificate copy + birth certificate (notarised English translations)
- Foreign-exchange purchase receipt OR passport endorsement *(conditional)*
- Minor-only documents (if applicant < 18): birth certificate + notarised parental consent if travelling without both parents *(conditional)*
- ANY ONE income bundle — Business / Salary / Pension / Rental (only one needed) — See per-bundle breakdown below — submit the bundle that matches your active income source.
- Income Details & Supporting Documents (For Visa Application) — Important Notes: (1) All documents issued in Nepali language must be translated into English and notarised (certified by a notary public). (2) The applicant is required to provide documents for any ONE source of income only from the categories listed below.
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.
- 3. Pension Income *(conditional)* — Applicants receiving pension must submit:
- Pension Certificate (Pension Patta) — Original Nijamati / armed-forces pension book issued by the Pension Management Office, plus copies of all entries.
- Company ID Card (if available) *(conditional)* — Photocopy of the former government / public-sector service ID card (front + back).
- Recent Pension Bank Statement — Last 3–6 months of pension-account transactions showing regular monthly pension credits — original, signed and stamped on every page.
- Pension Receiving Confirmation Letter from Bank — On bank letterhead, confirming the applicant's pension account, monthly credit amount, and account holder details.
- 4. Rental Income *(conditional)* — Applicants earning rental income must provide:
- Land Ownership Certificate — Original + copy of the Lalpurja (land title deed) for the rental-yielding land / property.
- Building Completion Certificate — Issued by the Municipality / Nagarpalika engineering office confirming the building is completed and fit for occupancy.
- Land and Building Tax Payment Certificate — Latest fiscal-year payment receipts from Municipality (Nagarpalika) and Ward (Wada) office (malpot / bhumi-ghar tax).

**Notes:**
- A multi-entry Schengen Type C visa with 2+ entries OR a Schengen residence permit removes the need for a separate Icelandic visa under standard Schengen reciprocity.
- Multi-entry sticker validity is at the Embassy's discretion — repeat travellers with a clean Schengen record can receive 1, 3, or 5-year multi-entry stamps.
- Iceland tourism is highly seasonal: Northern Lights season (Sep–Mar), Midnight Sun (May–Aug). Apply 3+ months in advance for popular travel windows.

### Business — Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) — Business

**Purpose:** Business meetings, contract negotiations, conferences, exhibitions — no employment in Iceland or the wider Schengen Area.
**Stay duration:** Maximum 90 days within any 180-day period.
**Validity:** Up to 5 years multi-entry for repeat business profiles.
**Entries:** Single, Double, or Multiple.
**Processing time:** 15 days standard.
**How to apply:** visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/nor -> select Iceland -> VFS Kathmandu submission with Icelandic inviter docs.

**Required documents:**

- Standard application set (form, passport, photos, insurance, return ticket, cover letter)
- Letter of invitation from Icelandic company on company letterhead — Includes inviter's kennitala (Icelandic business identification number), business activity, purpose of meeting, dates, and confirmation of who covers expenses.
- Icelandic inviter business registration extract from Skatturinn (Icelandic Tax Authority business register)
- Cover letter from Nepali employer (on letterhead, signed and stamped) — Confirms position, purpose of trip, dates approved as work-related travel, return-to-role commitment.
- Conference / event registration (if applicable) *(conditional)*
- Bank statement (last 3 months, NPR 7 lakh ending balance recommended)
- Income Tax Returns (last 3 years)
- ANY ONE income bundle — Business / Salary / Pension / Rental (Business bundle most relevant for self-employed travellers)
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.

**Notes:**
- Business visitors do NOT need a work permit — but the activity must be commercial-meeting-style with primary remuneration outside Iceland.
- For ongoing engagement (>90 days), apply for Type D under the Specialist or EEA EU/EFTA-equivalent residence permit.

### Family Visit — Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) — Visit to Family or Friends

**Purpose:** Visiting family or friends resident in Iceland.
**Stay duration:** Up to 90 days in 180.
**Validity:** 1–5 years multi-entry.
**Entries:** Single, Double, or Multiple.
**Processing time:** 15 days standard.
**How to apply:** Standard VFS Kathmandu intake (Norway-Iceland) with host-provided invitation.

**Required documents:**

- Standard application set (form, passport, photos, insurance, return ticket)
- Letter of invitation from Icelandic host (citizen / PR / residence-permit holder) — Includes host name, address, status, relationship to applicant, dates of stay, who covers expenses. Notarised at any Icelandic notary public OR signed before a sýslumaður (district commissioner).
- Host's status proof: Icelandic ID (kennitala document), passport, or residence permit copy
- Host's 3-month bank statement OR salary slips (proof of capacity to host)
- Cover letter from applicant explaining the relationship and visit purpose
- Bank statement (last 3 months) showing capacity to cover own incidental expenses
- Family-relationship proof: marriage / birth certificate (notarised English translations + MoFA-attested)
- ANY ONE income bundle — Business / Salary / Pension / Rental (only one needed)
- Income Details & Supporting Documents (For Visa Application) — Important Notes: (1) All documents issued in Nepali language must be translated into English and notarised (certified by a notary public). (2) The applicant is required to provide documents for any ONE source of income only from the categories listed below.
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.
- 3. Pension Income *(conditional)* — Applicants receiving pension must submit:
- Pension Certificate (Pension Patta) — Original Nijamati / armed-forces pension book issued by the Pension Management Office, plus copies of all entries.
- Company ID Card (if available) *(conditional)* — Photocopy of the former government / public-sector service ID card (front + back).
- Recent Pension Bank Statement — Last 3–6 months of pension-account transactions showing regular monthly pension credits — original, signed and stamped on every page.
- Pension Receiving Confirmation Letter from Bank — On bank letterhead, confirming the applicant's pension account, monthly credit amount, and account holder details.
- 4. Rental Income *(conditional)* — Applicants earning rental income must provide:
- Land Ownership Certificate — Original + copy of the Lalpurja (land title deed) for the rental-yielding land / property.
- Building Completion Certificate — Issued by the Municipality / Nagarpalika engineering office confirming the building is completed and fit for occupancy.
- Land and Building Tax Payment Certificate — Latest fiscal-year payment receipts from Municipality (Nagarpalika) and Ward (Wada) office (malpot / bhumi-ghar tax).

**Notes:**
- Spouses and minor children of EEA / Icelandic citizens are GRATIS — the consular fee is waived under EEA Free Movement equivalent rules. VFS service still applies.

### Student — Long-Stay Residence Permit (Type D) — Studies

**Purpose:** Full-time study at a recognised Icelandic higher-education institution (University of Iceland, Reykjavík University, Bifröst University, University of Akureyri, Iceland Academy of the Arts).
**Stay duration:** Programme length; biometric residence-permit card valid 1 year initially, renewable for full programme duration.
**Validity:** Single-entry visa for first arrival; multi-entry on residence permit.
**Entries:** Single (entry); multiple via residence permit.
**Processing time:** Útlendingastofnun processing target: 90 days for Type D Studies.
**How to apply:** (1) Get accepted to an Icelandic institution + receive admission letter; (2) file Application for Residence Permit for Studies online at island.is; (3) pay Útlendingastofnun fee (ISK 16,000 / ≈ EUR 110); (4) book biometric capture appointment at VFS Norway Delhi (Iceland uses Norway VFS Delhi for Type D biometric capture, NOT VFS Kathmandu); (5) submit biometrics + originals; (6) wait for Útlendingastofnun decision; (7) collect entry visa from Royal Norwegian Embassy Delhi; (8) within 14 days of arrival, register with Þjóðskrá Íslands (Icelandic Registry).
**Financial requirement:** Funds proof: minimum ISK 250,000/month (≈ EUR 1,667 / NPR 2.4 lakh) for living expenses for the entire programme — total for first-year studies typically ISK 3,000,000+ (≈ EUR 20,000 / NPR 28 lakh). Tuition for first year paid OR confirmed scholarship.

**Required documents:**

- Application for Residence Permit for Studies (filed online at island.is)
- University admission letter from an Icelandic-accredited institution — Must be on the official list of Icelandic higher-education institutions; includes programme, start date, language of study, tuition for first year.
- Proof of paid tuition for the first year OR scholarship confirmation — Tuition is FREE for EEA students at Icelandic public universities; non-EEA students pay ISK 75,000–500,000/year (varies by institution) — Iceland tuition is significantly cheaper than other Nordic countries.
- Funds proof: bank statement showing ISK 3,000,000+ (≈ NPR 28 lakh) OR sponsor declaration with sponsor's 6-month bank statement
- Confirmed accommodation in Iceland (university dormitory contract OR private rental ≥ 6 months) — Reykjavík housing is extremely tight — secure accommodation at admission acceptance stage.
- Comprehensive health insurance valid in Iceland (≥ EUR 30,000 for first 6 months; auto-enrolled in Sjúkratryggingar Íslands after 6 months)
- Academic transcripts + Diplomas / Degrees (notarised English translations + MoFA-apostilled)
- English proficiency certificate (per programme requirement) — IELTS Academic 6.5+ for Bachelor's; 7.0+ for Master's. Some programmes require Icelandic A2/B1 (rare for international students).
- Birth certificate + citizenship certificate (notarised English translations + MoFA-apostilled)
- Police clearance from Nepal MoFA (≤ 6 months old, MoFA-apostilled)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining choice of programme and Iceland
- ANY ONE income bundle for sponsor — Business / Salary / Pension / Rental (only one needed) — Funds the tuition / living allowance.
- Income Details & Supporting Documents (For Visa Application) — Important Notes: (1) All documents issued in Nepali language must be translated into English and notarised (certified by a notary public). (2) The applicant is required to provide documents for any ONE source of income only from the categories listed below.
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.
- 3. Pension Income *(conditional)* — Applicants receiving pension must submit:
- Pension Certificate (Pension Patta) — Original Nijamati / armed-forces pension book issued by the Pension Management Office, plus copies of all entries.
- Company ID Card (if available) *(conditional)* — Photocopy of the former government / public-sector service ID card (front + back).
- Recent Pension Bank Statement — Last 3–6 months of pension-account transactions showing regular monthly pension credits — original, signed and stamped on every page.
- Pension Receiving Confirmation Letter from Bank — On bank letterhead, confirming the applicant's pension account, monthly credit amount, and account holder details.
- 4. Rental Income *(conditional)* — Applicants earning rental income must provide:
- Land Ownership Certificate — Original + copy of the Lalpurja (land title deed) for the rental-yielding land / property.
- Building Completion Certificate — Issued by the Municipality / Nagarpalika engineering office confirming the building is completed and fit for occupancy.
- Land and Building Tax Payment Certificate — Latest fiscal-year payment receipts from Municipality (Nagarpalika) and Ward (Wada) office (malpot / bhumi-ghar tax).

**Notes:**
- Student residence permit allows part-time work up to 15 hours/week during term + full-time during summer holidays — automatic right after first 3 months of residence.
- After completing degree + 6 months of legal residence on Studies permit, graduates can apply for a "Job-Search Residence Permit" (6 months) to look for work.
- Iceland has no specific student visa quota — but housing scarcity in Reykjavík is the practical bottleneck. Expect to live in shared apartments (4–6 students) for the first year.

### Work — Long-Stay Residence Permit (Type D) — Specialist / Skill-Shortage / Researcher

**Purpose:** Salaried employment at an Icelandic employer. Several streams: Specialist (occupation requires specialist knowledge), Skill-Shortage (occupation on the published shortage list — currently nursing, IT, engineering, healthcare), Researcher (PhD-level research at an Icelandic institution), Athlete / Coach (sports clubs).
**Stay duration:** Tied to employment contract — typically 2 years initially, renewable.
**Validity:** Single-entry visa for first arrival; multi-entry on residence permit.
**Entries:** Single (entry); multiple via residence permit.
**Processing time:** Útlendingastofnun processing target: 90 days for Type D Work; faster for Specialist (~30 days) and Researcher (~30 days).
**How to apply:** (1) Icelandic employer applies for work permit at Vinnumálastofnun (Directorate of Labour); (2) once work permit is approved, applicant files Residence Permit application online at island.is; (3) pay Útlendingastofnun fee (ISK 16,000); (4) book biometric capture at VFS Norway Delhi; (5) submit biometrics + originals; (6) wait for Útlendingastofnun decision; (7) collect entry visa from Royal Norwegian Embassy Delhi.

**Required documents:**

- Application for Residence Permit for Work (filed online at island.is)
- Work permit issued by Vinnumálastofnun (Directorate of Labour) — Employer-side document — Vinnumálastofnun verifies the role is on the Specialist / Shortage / Researcher list AND no qualified Icelandic / EEA candidate is available.
- Employment contract from Icelandic employer — Bilingual or English; includes position, salary (≥ Icelandic collective-agreement minimum), duration, address of workplace.
- Educational certificates + experience letters supporting the role — Notarised English translations + MoFA-apostilled. Some regulated occupations require Icelandic recognition.
- Comprehensive health insurance valid in Iceland (first 6 months before Sjúkratryggingar enrolment)
- Police clearance from Nepal MoFA AND from any country lived 12+ months in last 10 years (MoFA-apostilled)
- Confirmed accommodation in Iceland (employer-provided OR rental contract ≥ 12 months)
- Bank statement (last 3 months, NPR 7 lakh ending balance recommended)
- ANY ONE income bundle (Salary bundle most relevant for employed applicants)
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.

**Notes:**
- Iceland's annual work-permit quota is small (~3,000/year for non-EEA nationals across all categories) — applications outside Specialist / Shortage / Researcher are difficult.
- Family of Type D work-permit holders can apply for Type D Family Reunion concurrently — separate application per family member.
- After 4 years on continuous Work Residence Permit, holders can apply for Permanent Residence Permit (búsetuleyfi); after 7 years total residence, can apply for Icelandic citizenship by naturalisation.

### Transit — Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) — Transit / Airport Transit

**Purpose:** Transit through Iceland or Keflavík International Airport (KEF) en route to a third country.
**Stay duration:** Up to 5 days transit.
**Validity:** Single use, tied to onward booking.
**Entries:** Single (or double for round-trip transits).
**Processing time:** 15 days standard.
**How to apply:** Standard VFS Kathmandu intake (Norway-Iceland).

**Required documents:**

- Standard application set (form, passport, photo, insurance)
- Confirmed onward air ticket departing Iceland within transit window
- Visa for the destination third country (where applicable) — Icelandic Border Police verify onward admissibility at port of entry.
- Brief cover letter explaining transit *(conditional)*

**Notes:**
- Nepalis are subject to Airport Transit Visa (ATV) requirement when transiting Icelandic airports — confirm at the time of filing whether ATV or full transit visa applies for your itinerary.
- Keflavík Airport (Reykjavík) is a major North Atlantic transit hub for Icelandair routes — popular routing for Nepali travellers connecting between Europe and North America via stopover packages.

### Multi-Entry — Long-Stay Residence Permit (Type D) — Family Reunion

**Purpose:** Family reunion with an Icelandic citizen, EEA citizen residing in Iceland, or non-EEA national holding Icelandic residence permit.
**Stay duration:** Per host's status — typically 2 years initial residence permit, renewable.
**Validity:** Single-entry visa for first arrival; multi-entry on residence permit.
**Entries:** Single (entry); multiple via residence permit.
**Processing time:** Útlendingastofnun processing target: 6–9 months for spouse / partner reunion.
**How to apply:** (1) Icelandic-resident host completes host declaration at island.is; (2) applicant files Application for Residence Permit on Family Grounds online at island.is; (3) pay Útlendingastofnun fee (ISK 16,000); (4) book biometric capture at VFS Norway Delhi; (5) submit biometrics + originals; (6) wait for Útlendingastofnun decision; (7) collect entry visa.

**Required documents:**

- Application for Residence Permit on Family Grounds (filed online at island.is)
- Host's status proof: Icelandic ID (kennitala) / EEA passport + Icelandic residence registration
- Marriage certificate (for spouses) OR birth certificate (for children) — notarised English translations + MoFA-apostilled
- Cohabitation evidence (for unmarried partners): joint lease, joint bank statements, photos, communication history *(conditional)* — Required when applying as unmarried partner — must demonstrate genuine cohabitation for at least 2 years.
- Funds proof: host's 6-month bank statement OR salary slips — Útlendingastofnun income threshold: minimum ISK 240,000/month (≈ EUR 1,600) for spouse + ISK 50,000/month per child.
- Confirmed accommodation in Iceland (host-provided OR family rental contract ≥ 12 months)
- Comprehensive health insurance valid in Iceland (first 6 months)
- Police clearance from Nepal MoFA AND from any country lived 12+ months in last 10 years (MoFA-apostilled)
- ANY ONE income bundle for host (only one needed) — Demonstrates host can financially support the reunifying family member.
- Income Details & Supporting Documents (For Visa Application) — Important Notes: (1) All documents issued in Nepali language must be translated into English and notarised (certified by a notary public). (2) The applicant is required to provide documents for any ONE source of income only from the categories listed below.
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.
- 3. Pension Income *(conditional)* — Applicants receiving pension must submit:
- Pension Certificate (Pension Patta) — Original Nijamati / armed-forces pension book issued by the Pension Management Office, plus copies of all entries.
- Company ID Card (if available) *(conditional)* — Photocopy of the former government / public-sector service ID card (front + back).
- Recent Pension Bank Statement — Last 3–6 months of pension-account transactions showing regular monthly pension credits — original, signed and stamped on every page.
- Pension Receiving Confirmation Letter from Bank — On bank letterhead, confirming the applicant's pension account, monthly credit amount, and account holder details.
- 4. Rental Income *(conditional)* — Applicants earning rental income must provide:
- Land Ownership Certificate — Original + copy of the Lalpurja (land title deed) for the rental-yielding land / property.
- Building Completion Certificate — Issued by the Municipality / Nagarpalika engineering office confirming the building is completed and fit for occupancy.
- Land and Building Tax Payment Certificate — Latest fiscal-year payment receipts from Municipality (Nagarpalika) and Ward (Wada) office (malpot / bhumi-ghar tax).

**Notes:**
- Spouses and minor children of EEA citizens (including Icelandic via Singh route) benefit from EEA Free Movement equivalent rules — much simpler procedure (no income threshold for the host); processed under EEA Residence rules instead of Icelandic national family reunion.
- Type D Family Reunion gives full work authorisation in Iceland — no separate work permit needed for the spouse to work.
- Children turning 18 must transition to their own residence basis (Studies / Specialist / Family Reunion of EEA citizen if applicable).
- Within 14 days of arrival, family-reunified persons must register at Þjóðskrá Íslands (Icelandic Registry) for a kennitala (Icelandic personal identity number).

## Important general notes

- Every Nepali-language document MUST be accompanied by a notary-certified English translation — embassies will reject untranslated originals. Use a Nepal Bar Council–registered translator and have each translation notarised by a Notary Public.
- Income proof for Icelandic visas: ANY ONE of the four Nepal-side income bundles is sufficient (Business OR Salary OR Pension OR Rental) — pick the bundle matching your active income source.
- Iceland joined the Schengen Area on 25 March 2001 via the Schengen Association Agreement — NOT via EU membership. Iceland is in the EEA (European Economic Area) but NOT in the EU. Schengen Type C visas issued by Iceland are valid across all 29 Schengen states; Schengen visas issued by other members are valid for entry to Iceland under the same conditions.
- Holders of a valid multiple-entry Schengen Type C visa, an LTV with multi-entry, a Schengen Type D long-stay visa, or a Schengen residence permit DO NOT need a separate Icelandic visa for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- NORDIC REPRESENTATION ARRANGEMENT: Iceland does NOT operate its own consular missions in most countries; under the Nordic Cooperation Treaty, Norway represents Iceland for visa intake in many third countries — including Nepal. This means Nepali Type C applications for Iceland are filed at VFS Norway Kathmandu and adjudicated by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in New Delhi on behalf of Iceland.
- GOOD NEWS for Nepal: VFS Norway-Iceland VAC IS in Kathmandu (Chhaya Devi Complex, Thamel). Nepali applicants can submit Iceland Type C visas in Nepal — no need to travel to India for short-stay tourism / business / family visits.
- For Type D long-stay residence permits, applications are filed online at island.is (the Icelandic government portal). The first-time biometric capture for Type D is more complex — Nepalis typically need to travel to VFS Norway Delhi (which has the dedicated Type D capture station) OR to an Útlendingastofnun-authorised police station in Iceland after first arrival on a Type D entry visa.
- Biometrics (fingerprints + photo) are mandatory for first-time Schengen Type C applicants and for ALL Type D applicants regardless of prior captures. Fingerprints valid 5 years across Schengen for Type C.
- Schengen-approved travel medical insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 cover (incl. emergency repatriation + urgent hospitalisation) is mandatory for Type C and must be valid throughout the Schengen Area for the entire stay. For Type D, comprehensive Icelandic health insurance is required for the first 6 months — after 6 months of legal residence, foreign nationals are auto-enrolled in the Icelandic Health Insurance scheme (Sjúkratryggingar Íslands).
- All non-English / non-Icelandic documents must be translated into English by a Nepal MoFA-recognised translator and apostilled — Nepal joined the Hague Apostille Convention on 14 March 2024.
- Iceland uses ISK (Icelandic Króna) — 1 EUR ≈ 150 ISK (2026). Iceland is NOT in the Eurozone.
- Iceland has very small annual immigration quotas (population ~370,000) — Type D work-permit decisions favour highly-skilled specialists, researchers, and EEA-skill-shortage occupations. General work permits are difficult to obtain unless the role is on the published shortage occupation list.
- Iceland's tourism boom (since the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption put it on the map and the 2017 Justice League Northern Lights tourism wave) means Type C visas are processed efficiently for genuine tourism; visa-officer scrutiny focuses on financial capacity rather than tourism intent.
- Common refusal patterns for Nepal: weak ties to Nepal (no property / business / family obligation), unexplained funds, vague itinerary, undisclosed prior Schengen / UK / US refusals, applicants under 30 without dependants. Norwegian visa officers (acting for Iceland) also scrutinise authenticity of Nepali financial documents heavily.

## How to apply (4 steps)

1. **Confirm Iceland visa eligibility** — Check that your Nepali passport qualifies for the visa type you need (tourist, business, family, education). Diplomatic / official passport holders may have different rules.
2. **Gather supporting documents** — Prepare: Schengen visa application form (signed); Nepali passport (issued within last 10 years; ≥ 3 months validity beyond visa expiry; ≥ 2 blank back-to-back pages); Two passport-size photos (35 × 45 mm, white background, < 6 months old); Schengen-approved travel medical insurance (minimum EUR 30,000 coverage); Confirmed return air ticket (reservation only at file-prep stage); Confirmed accommodation in Iceland for the entire stay.
3. **Submit at VFS Global Norway-Iceland Visa Application Centre — Kathmandu** — Apply online at visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/nor -> select "Iceland" as the destination -> fill Schengen application + upload documents -> pay fee online OR at counter -> book biometric appointment at VFS Kathmandu -> submit biometrics + originals -> wait for Royal Norwegian Embassy decision -> courier passport collection at VFS.
4. **Track and collect** — Processing typically takes 15 calendar days standard at the Royal Norwegian Embassy Delhi (acting for Iceland); up to 30 days in justified cases; max 45 days when extra documentation is requested. Iceland files often decided faster than Norway files due to lower volume.. Yatra's concierge tracks your application and notifies you on each status change.

## Frequently asked questions

### How long does a Iceland tourist visa take to process for Nepali citizens?

15 calendar days standard at the Royal Norwegian Embassy Delhi (acting for Iceland); up to 30 days in justified cases; max 45 days when extra documentation is requested. Iceland files often decided faster than Norway files due to lower volume.

### What bank balance is required for a Iceland visa?

Bank statement (last 3 months) showing capacity for the trip — recommended ending balance NPR 7 lakh (7,00,000)+ for a typical 7–14-day Iceland trip — plus 3-year Income Tax Returns and an international credit card with 3-month statement. Iceland is one of the most expensive Schengen destinations: Icelandic consular officers reference ISK 8,000–12,000/day (≈ EUR 53–80) as the per-diem benchmark for proof-of-funds calculations.

### How many days can Nepali citizens stay in Iceland on a tourist visa?

Maximum 90 days within any 180-day rolling period. (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) — Tourism).

### Where do Nepali citizens apply for a Iceland tourist visa?

Apply online at visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/nor -> select "Iceland" as the destination -> fill Schengen application + upload documents -> pay fee online OR at counter -> book biometric appointment at VFS Kathmandu -> submit biometrics + originals -> wait for Royal Norwegian Embassy decision -> courier passport collection at VFS.

### What documents are required for a Iceland tourist visa from Nepal?

Required documents include: Schengen visa application form (signed); Nepali passport (issued within last 10 years; ≥ 3 months validity beyond visa expiry; ≥ 2 blank back-to-back pages); Two passport-size photos (35 × 45 mm, white background, < 6 months old); Schengen-approved travel medical insurance (minimum EUR 30,000 coverage); Confirmed return air ticket (reservation only at file-prep stage); Confirmed accommodation in Iceland for the entire stay; Detailed travel itinerary (locations, duration per location); Cover letter explaining purpose of trip.

### Where is the Iceland embassy in Nepal?

Royal Norwegian Embassy — New Delhi (represents Iceland for visa applications under Nordic Cooperation; consular jurisdiction over Nepal + Bhutan + Sri Lanka) — 50-C Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021, India. Phone: +91 11 4177 9200.

### Can Nepali citizens apply for a Iceland business visa?

Yes — Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) — Business. Business meetings, contract negotiations, conferences, exhibitions — no employment in Iceland or the wider Schengen Area. Processing: 15 days standard..

### Is there an online portal to apply for a Iceland visa?

Yes — apply online at https://island.is (Icelandic government portal — mandatory online filing for Type D residence permits) · https://www.utl.is/en (Útlendingastofnun / Directorate of Immigration — Type D adjudication, processing-time tracker) · https://visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/nor (VFS Norway-Iceland Nepal — Type C intake) · https://www.norway.no/en/india — Royal Norwegian Embassy New Delhi (represents Iceland) · https://www.government.is/topics/foreign-affairs/visa-and-residence-permits — Iceland MFA visa policy.

### How is the Iceland visa fee paid?

Type C visa fee + VFS service charge in cash NPR or by card / QR at the VFS Kathmandu counter. For Type D, the Útlendingastofnun fee is paid online at island.is when filing the application; identification-visit fee at VFS Kathmandu (or VFS Delhi for biometrics) is paid in cash NPR / INR at the appointment.

### Can Yatra help with a Iceland visa application?

Yes — Yatra provides end-to-end visa assistance for Iceland including document preparation, appointment booking, application review, and a PNR-backed dummy ticket (NPR 999) when the embassy requires proof of onward travel.

## Sources

- https://island.is — Icelandic government portal (mandatory online filing for Type D residence permits)
- https://www.utl.is/en — Útlendingastofnun (Directorate of Immigration — Type D adjudication, processing-time tracker)
- https://visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/nor — VFS Global Norway-Iceland Nepal (Type C intake under Norway-Iceland Nordic representation)
- https://www.norway.no/en/india — Royal Norwegian Embassy New Delhi (represents Iceland for visa applications under Nordic Cooperation)
- https://www.government.is/topics/foreign-affairs/visa-and-residence-permits — Iceland MFA visa policy
- https://www.vinnumalastofnun.is — Vinnumálastofnun (Directorate of Labour — work permit clearances)
- https://www.skra.is — Þjóðskrá Íslands (Icelandic Registry — post-arrival registration for kennitala)
- Schengen Visa Code Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 — Schengen acquis (Iceland accession 25 March 2001 via Schengen Association Agreement)
- Nordic Cooperation Treaty visa representation arrangement — Norway represents Iceland for Schengen Type C intake in third countries without Icelandic missions, including Nepal
- Iceland Type D residence permit fee schedule (2026): Studies ISK 16,000; Work ISK 16,000; Family Reunion ISK 16,000; Specialist ISK 16,000 (Iceland uses a uniform Type D fee structure)
- Type C Schengen visa fee EUR 90 (adult) / EUR 45 (child 6–11) / FREE (child < 6) per Schengen Visa Code
- Nepal joined the Hague Apostille Convention on 14 March 2024 — Nepal-issued documents apostilled by Nepal MoFA after that date are accepted by Icelandic authorities without further consular legalisation

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*Yatra (https://yatraforfun.com) provides end-to-end visa assistance for Nepali citizens — document review, embassy submission, dummy ticket (NPR 999) when proof of onward travel is required.*