Iceland

Iceland has a low crime rate. However, you could face petty theft. This often occurs around bars late at night in downtown Reykjavik.

There have been rare instances of gang-related violent crime.

To protect yourself from crime:

• watch your belongings on buses and taxis, especially at night
• don't go out alone after dark or to isolated places, especially on foot
• always keep your vehicle and accommodation locked
• be alert to suspicious behaviour
• pay attention to your surroundings.

Cyber security 

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Civil unrest is rare, and protests are mostly peaceful. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. If there's civil unrest, avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.

• monitor the media for news of protests
• avoid affected areas
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Protests and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

There's an ongoing threat of terrorism in Europe.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals, concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

• Terrorism

Be careful when engaging in adventure activities in Iceland, including mountaineering, trekking, skiing and glacier climbing.

The weather conditions, rough terrain, and volcanic activity in Iceland can lead to safety concerns if you don't adequately prepare for your trip.

Trails and natural hazards aren't always well-marked or signed. Certain routes cross glaciers that are dangerous to navigate without proper equipment and training. Volcanic and geologically active areas pose a risk to hikers and trekkers. Hazards can be hidden within the landscape.

Tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it. Buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts. If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• register your itinerary and contact details with the Icelandic authorities and book accommodations, or camp, in authorised campsites
• carry a mobile phone, emergency contact information, and bring an emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) to remote areas

Icelandic authorities maintain a web portal to inform tourists of good practices and hazards through Safetravel.is. You can register your itinerary and receive safety alerts through SMS. Icelandic emergency services also offer a location-based emergency assistance app called 112 Iceland App.

Trekking

If you want to do an adventure activity or go trekking:

• get local advice on routes and the weather before setting out
• use an experienced and well-known trekking company
• always let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return
• don't trek alone or off marked trails
• keep a safe distance from seals
• follow the advice of rangers in wilderness areas.

Swimming safety

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides, large waves, and strong ocean currents can catch even experienced swimmers off guard. Large surges of water or 'sneaker waves' have killed people at the Reynisfjara and Kikjufjara black sand beaches in southern Iceland. 

Inland waters may also be dangerous. Many of Iceland’s rivers have swift currents and waterfalls. Hot springs can be dangerously hot.

• Always check downstream before you swim in a river
• Always check the water before going into a natural hot spring

More information:

• Advice, alerts, and registration of itinerary
• 112 Iceland app – Government of Iceland

Iceland experiences natural disasters and severe weather such as:

• glacial floods
• volcanic eruptions
• earthquakes and landslides

If there's a natural disaster:

• keep your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• contact friends and family with regular updates about your welfare
• monitor the media, other local information and the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

More information:

• Travel and Road Conditions

Volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunamis

Iceland has active volcanoes. Monitor the local media for reports on volcanic and seismic activity and follow the advice of local authorities.

Volcanic and seismic activity has increased around Mt. Thorbjörn, 40km southwest of Reykjavik, and near the Blue Lagoon and Keflavik International Airport.  

Clouds of volcanic gas could move across southern Iceland, bringing potentially dangerous levels to areas. If you're in an area affected by volcanic gas:

• monitor the local air quality, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• keep your windows closed and turn off ventilation systems
• avoid low-lying ground and valleys

If you're in Iceland:

• stay away from areas near the eruption sites, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments due to the risk of harmful gases
• avoid areas close to mountains and steep slopes on the Reykjanes peninsula due to the danger of falling rocks
• monitor local media to stay informed and
• follow the advice of local authorities.

Volcanic eruptions have disrupted flights. Check with your airline for any flight changes due to ash releases.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office continues to monitor the situation.

Iceland is in an active earthquake zone.

Tsunamis are a threat in coastal areas.

If you're near the coast, move to high ground straight away if advised, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

More information:

• Map of Icelandic volcanoes – State Volcano Observatory
• Alerts and warnings – Safe Travel Iceland
• Civic Protection and Emergency Management website
• Civil Protection and Emergency Management Facebook (live updates)
• News | Icelandic Meteorological office (vedur.is) – Icelandic Meteorological Office
• Air Quality Management System (loftgaedi.is) – Icelandic Environment Agency

Severe weather

Iceland can experience severe weather. The climate can be unpredictable, with:

• snow storms
• sand storms
• ash storms

The Icelandic Meteorological Office gives weather reports.

For recorded weather information in English 24/7, call +354 522 6000 or +354 902 0600.

For reports on road closures and other disruptions, visit:

• Climate information and warnings - Icelandic Meteorological Office
• Safe Travel Iceland
• Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration

Civil Protection in Iceland advises on what to do in emergencies.

Travel in the Arctic

Some places in the Arctic are a long way from help, including:

• search and rescue
• evacuation
• medical facilities

Search and rescue teams in the region are highly skilled. However, help depends on the weather and sea conditions in an emergency. If you need help, you may have to wait a long time.

Before booking travel in the region, check your travel company's:

• experience
• reputation
• standard of onboard medical help

More information:

• Going on a cruise
• Arctic travel

Health risks are broadly similar to those in Australia.

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information

• Infectious diseases

The standard of health facilities and care is high. Many people speak English. However, services can be limited in areas with fewer people. 

There’s no agreement between Australia and Iceland for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Upfront payment may be required. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrested overseas. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.

If you break the law in Iceland, you may be banned from the Schengen area for a limited time (up to 10 years) or permanently.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences, even for possession of small amounts of recreational drugs or some prescription medications, include:

• heavy fines
• imprisonment
• being removed from the Schengen area
• a potential entry ban

If you intend to take medication, confirm it's legal in your destination. Check if any rules or restrictions apply. Depending on your medication, you may need to apply for a permit to bring it to your destination. Always carry a copy of your prescription and transport your medication in its original container.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

Always carry an ID, such as your driver's licence or a copy of your passport.

Penalties for drink driving and speeding are severe and include the following:

• heavy fines
• jail sentences

Even minor offences can attract fines and jail sentences.

If you're found guilty of an offence:

• you may face jail or deportation
• you may be banned from the Schengen area

Some Australian laws still apply even if you’re in another country. You could be charged in Australia if you break these laws overseas.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Iceland recognises dual nationality.

More information:

• Advice for dual nationals

Visas

Iceland is part of the Schengen area. You may be able to enter Iceland without a visa in some cases. Get an entry stamp in your passport from border control when you first enter the Schengen area.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact an embassy or consulate of Iceland, or the Directorate of Immigration, for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

The new European Union's (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) for registering all non-EU nationals, including Australians, travelling in or out of the Schengen area, has started.

EES will gradually introduce the system at their external borders. Data collection will be introduced at border crossing points with full implementation by 10 April 2026.

After it is fully implemented, EES registration will replace the current system of manually stamping passports. ​

The registration process should only take a few minutes but there may be longer border queues when the new system starts.

When travelling into and out of the Schengen area, for short stays, you may need to 

• have your fingerprints and photo taken
• answer Schengen Border Code questions

This creates a digital record that registers your biometric details.

If you revisit the Schengen area within 3 years of creating your digital record, you'll only need to provide either your fingerprint or photograph at the border on entry and exit.

If you frequently travel to Schengen areas for work and/or leisure purposes, you must ensure that your total stay in the Schengen area is no more than 90 days in every 180 days. Be aware of immigration penalties and enforcement for exceeding the limit in any individual country you plan to travel to or through.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Before you travel, contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details on entry requirements .

More information:

• Visas and entry requirements in Europe and the Schengen Area

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Iceland's currency is the Icelandic Kroner (ISK). 

Declare cash of over 10,000 euros or equivalent if you're travelling between Iceland and any non-EU country. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You'll have to pay a fine on entry or exit if you: 

• don't declare your money
• give incorrect information

You can use major credit cards in most places.

More information:

• Cash declaration - Iceland Revenue and Customs

Natural attractions

Hazards at natural attractions rarely have warning signs or safety barriers. Stay on marked paths and use common sense. Certain routes cross glaciers that are dangerous to navigate without proper equipment and training. Volcanic and geologically active areas pose a risk to hikers and trekkers. Hazards can be hidden within the landscape.

If you visit geysers, take care. The hot steam and water can cause injuries. Take extra care on windy days.

Road travel

Driving conditions can be hazardous. Check guidance from the Icelandic Transport Authority before driving.

Roads are narrow and can be impassable in winter when there's less daylight. Speed limits are low. Most urban roads, as well as Iceland’s national Route 1, the 'ring road,' are paved. Many inland roads are unpaved, narrow and lack shoulders.

Most bridges outside of Reykjavik are one-lane. Slow down when approaching bridges to ensure there is no traffic approaching from the other side. If cars are approaching from both sides, the closest car to the bridge has the right of way.

Driving can be hazardous, particularly in winter. Wildlife road accidents can occur. Be particularly vigilant if driving at nighttime.

The weather and river levels can change quickly. Plan ahead.

The northern lights can distract drivers, making them lose control or stop without warning, creating a hazard for other road users.

If you want to drive, be aware that authorities:

• impose heavy fines for speeding
• strictly enforce drink driving laws with severe penalties
• strictly control off-road driving

Always keep your headlights on (low beam during the day).

You need winter tyres from around November to April. The dates may vary each year. 

Driving permit

Australian driving licences are valid in Iceland if you have had your licence for a minimum of 1 year. However, some car rental companies require customers to present an International Driving Permit (IDP) if holding a licence issued outside Europe or North America. Digital driver's licences may not be accepted.

If you need an IDP, get this before you leave Australia. An IDP doesn't replace the requirement for a regular driver's license.

If your driving licence is not written in Latin letters or doesn't include your licence number, a photograph or an issuing date, you'll also need an IDP to drive in Iceland.

Highland driving

Many highland tracks are only open for a short part of the summer.

If you plan to drive to the highlands or other remote regions, check with the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration.

Call +354 522 1100 for updates on:

• road hazards
• weather conditions
• off-road driving conditions

If you plan to drive in a remote area, including the highlands:

• check road conditions
• use a four-wheel-drive vehicle
• share your travel itinerary with a third-party
• bring a mobile phone and sufficient supplies of fuel, water and food

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when riding a motorbike or quad bike.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

A range of authorised taxi and limousine services are available. You can book these through your hotel or at the Taxi stands around the city.

Only use taxis licensed by the Icelandic Transport Authority. Licensed metered taxis display a roof light, and those with pre-agreed fares show a licence sticker in the windshield.

More information: 

• Rules about taxis

Public transport

Public transport options are limited outside Reykjavik. Bus shuttle services from the international airport to the capital region are available. Long-distance buses also operate throughout the country.

Straeto publishes bus timetables.

Trains

There's no rail service.

Sea travel

Several international cruise lines stopover in Iceland.

More information:

• Going on a cruise
• Travel to Antarctica and the Arctic

Air travel

Check Iceland's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 112 or go to a hospital.

Police

Call 112 or go to the local police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Emergency app

The 112 Iceland app from the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR) helps in an emergency.

To call for help, press the red 'Emergency' button. This will send your location by text message to the 112 response centre. The green 'Check In' button tells ICE-SAR your location.

For non-emergency medical help in the Reykjavik metropolitan area, call:

• +354 544 4114 during business hours
• +354 544 1770 outside of business hours

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Iceland.

You can seek consular help from the Canadian Embassy in Reykjavik.

Canadian Embassy, Reykjavik

Túngata 14
101 Reykjavik, Iceland

Phone: +354 575 6500
Email: rkjvk@international.gc.ca

You can also seek consular help from the Australian Embassy in Copenhagen, Denmark:

Australian Embassy, Copenhagen

Dampfaergevej 26
2nd floor
2100 Copenhagen Ø Denmark 

Phone: +45 7026 3676
Email: copenhagen.embassy@dfat.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Denmark, Norway and Iceland
X: @AusAmbDK

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia