This article is written as of June 29, 2020 12:00 PM EST
Please check with your country’s travel guidelines before traveling during a global pandemic and do not travel if you are feeling ill or experience any other symptoms of COVID-19.
As of July 1st, Iceland hopes to reopen their borders to countries around the world but their membership in the Schengen Agreement is affecting their decision. The European Union will be publishing a list of countries they will allow into the Schengen Area. Though Iceland has been taking strict screening measures at their borders, the EU has hinted that if Iceland does not follow their guidelines, they may be cut off from the Schengen Area as well.
Before arrival, all travelers, including Icelanders returning home are required to fill out a pre-registration declaration of health form.
On June 15, Iceland welcomed all EU citizens and travelers from the Schengen countries into their country. Upon arrival, travelers are given the option to either enter into a strict 14-day quarantine or take a COVID-19 test. The testing takes place at Keflavik airport, before travelers are allowed out of the airport. Testing results are available within a few hours and those who tested negative for the novel Corona Virus were approved to travel freely about Iceland. While waiting for test results, travelers are encouraged to go directly to their accommodations.
Testing is free until July 1. After this period, passengers will be required to pay $114 (€100/ ISK 15,000) per test.
Any passenger who tests positive for Corona Virus is required to undergo a strict 14-day isolated quarantine. A hotel in Reykjavik has been blocked off for those who do not have access to accommodation at no charge. Passengers who were sitting close to any individual who tests positive for COVID-19 will also be required to go into quarantine.
Travelers and all Icelanders are still encouraged to practice social distancing and washing their hands.
Tourists are encouraged to download an app that helps trace users’ locations in order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The app is called Rakning C-19 and has been an integral piece in allowing Iceland to gain control of the virus spreading and keeping people safe.
Icelandair is taking as many precautions as possible to ensure the safety of their crew and passengers. They have temporarily required all passengers to check their carry on baggage at no cost. Passengers may be allowed one personal item as long as it fits under the seat. Other safety measures put in place are mandatory face masks, limiting the sales of food and beverages while onboard, and numerous hand sanitizer locations at all major touch points.
As of June 22, Iceland has tested over 5500 travelers entering the country and only 2 have required isolation. Two Romanian travelers who were found violating the quarantine rule were arrested, fined, and deported from Iceland. They also tested positive for Corona Virus. The fine for breaking quarantine ranges from $1000 - $1500.
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