South Africa passport → Iceland

Iceland visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSShort-stay visa (Schengen C)

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Iceland and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Short-stay visa (Schengen C)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per the checklist.
2
Complete visa application form
Fill the Schengen visa application form online on the official portal.
3
Book appointment
Schedule a biometric appointment at VFS Global or the Icelandic embassy in Pretoria.
4
Attend appointment and submit documents
Visit the visa centre in person to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and submit the application.
5
Pay visa fee
Pay the €90 visa fee (subject to change) at the time of submission.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days but may extend up to 45 days in some cases.
7
Collect passport
Collect your passport from the visa centre or have it couriered to you.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport
Issued within last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond departure from Schengen area, with at least 2 blank pages
Travel itinerary / flight reservation
Round-trip booking showing entry and exit from Schengen area
Proof of accommodation
Hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter
Travel health insurance
Minimum coverage €30,000, valid throughout Schengen area

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statements for last 3 months, payslips, or sponsorship letter

Employment

Employment letter / proof of occupation
Employer's letter stating position, salary, and leave approval

Supporting

Visa application form
Completed and signed
Passport-sized photograph
Biometric, taken within last 6 months, 35x45mm
Proof of civil status
Optional
Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, etc. if applicable
Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
Optional
From host in Iceland, including copy of host's passport or residence permit
Cover letter
Optional
Explaining purpose of visit, itinerary, and why you will return to South Africa
Previous visas / travel history
Optional
Copies of previous Schengen visas or other travel history
Proof of legal residence (if not in country of origin)
Optional
Residence permit or visa for the country where you are applying
Consent letter for minors
Optional
If minor traveling alone or with one parent, signed by both parents/guardians

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Approximately €100 per day of stay

Bank statements for last 3 months
Payslips
Sponsorship letter

If sponsored, the host's bank statements and invitation letter are also required.

Good to know

Visa fees are non-refundable even if the visa is denied.
Application must be submitted in person at the designated visa centre.
Processing times may be longer during peak travel seasons.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all required documents and ensure they meet the specifications.

Insufficient funds or lack of proof of ties to home country

Provide clear evidence of financial means and strong ties to South Africa (e.g., employment, property, family).

Criminal record or previous visa violations

Be honest about any past issues and provide explanatory documents if possible.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Iceland?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Iceland and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-stay visa (Schengen C).

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Iceland?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Iceland visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: €90.

How long does Iceland visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Iceland?

Valid passport; Visa application form; Passport-sized photograph; Travel itinerary / flight reservation; Proof of accommodation; Travel health insurance; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Iceland?

At least 3 months.

Plan your trip to Iceland

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