Medical care is excellent. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is valid for nationals of EU and EFTA countries. The EHIC regulates care and reimbursement of costs in the event of illness for EU and EFTA citizens. Free medical treatment for EU and EFTA citizens is only available in the health centers (heilsugaeslustöd). These centers exist in all regions. The Laeknavaktin Center in Reykjavik (Smaratorg 1, Kopavogur. Tel: 1179) is available on weekends and in the evenings. In addition to the EHIC, you should be able to present your passport; the identity card may not be recognised. The EHIC does not include repatriation after a serious illness or an accident abroad. Statutory health insurance companies are not allowed to offer this service. Only private travel insurance companies pay for return transport. It is therefore recommended that you take out health insurance abroad for the duration of your stay, which covers risks that are not covered by statutory health insurance companies. Check directoryaah for more information.
Other risks
The standard vaccinations for children and adults recommended by the Robert Koch Institute (including against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), mumps, measles, rubella, pneumococci, poliomyelitis and influenza) should be refreshed before the trip if necessary. Hepatitis B occurs. Vaccination should be given for longer stays and close contact with the local population, as well as for children and young people in general. A vaccination against meningococcal meningitis C is recommended for long-term stays or special exposure for certain groups of people (adolescents or schoolchildren, students).
Health certificate
Iceland accepts EU COVID digital certificate. At the moment, however, there may still be technical difficulties, which is why it is advisable to also carry the vaccination card in paper form with you for security reasons.
Money
Currency
1 Icelandic Krona (islensk króna) = 100 Aurar. Currency code: IKr, ISK (ISO code). Banknotes are in denominations of 10,000, 5000, 2000, 1000 and 500 IKr. Coins in denominations of 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1 IKr. Aurar have no meaning in practice since 2003.
Credit cards
Visa, Europay/Mastercard, Diners Club and American Express are accepted by most establishments. Details from the issuer of the relevant credit card. Card payment is widespread and a signature is usually not required for small amounts.
ATMs
Girocard (formerly ec-card) With the Girocard (formerly ec-card), such as the Maestro card, V Pay or Sparcard and PIN number, cash can be withdrawn from ATMs in the national currency throughout Europe. In many European countries it is also possible to pay with a debit card in shops. Cards with the Cirrus, V-Pay or Maestro symbol are accepted throughout Europe. Further information from banks and credit institutes. Attention: Travelers who want to pay with their bank customer card abroad and withdraw money should find out from their bank about the possibility of using their card before starting their journey.
Travelers cheques
Traveller’s checks are no longer accepted in Iceland.
Bank opening hours
Mon-Fri 09.15-16.00; Banks at Keflavík Airport and in Reykjavík also longer.
Foreign exchange regulations
Unlimited import and export of cash (including travelers checks and securities), from a value of 10,000 € there is a declaration obligation, which must be fulfilled at customs without being asked.
Currency Exchange
You can get the best exchange rate on site. Currency can be exchanged in and out at the airport and on the ferry.
