Key points
- From late 2026, Ukrainian passport holders travelling to Iceland will need an ETIAS travel authorization.
- Ukrainians with EU temporary protection, a valid EU residence permit, or refugee status are exempt.
- ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization, not a visa, and covers 30 European countries including Iceland.
- An approved ETIAS stays valid for up to three years and allows multiple short stays of up to 90 days per 180-day period.
- Stays longer than 90 days still require a national visa from the Icelandic authorities.
Starting in late 2026, Ukrainian passport holders travelling to Iceland will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization before they go. Travellers who hold refugee or temporary protection status are exempt. Once approved, the authorization allows multiple short trips of up to 90 days and remains valid for three years.
Do Ukrainians need a visa to enter Iceland?
Ukrainian citizens do not currently need a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. From 2026, though, ETIAS becomes mandatory for visa-exempt travellers who do not hold an EU residence permit or refugee status.
You will not need ETIAS if you are:
- A Ukrainian citizen holding temporary EU protection under the 2022 directive
- A holder of a valid EU residence permit
- A person granted asylum or refugee status
This is guidance rather than a definitive legal ruling, so check your own situation against the official sources before you travel.
What is ETIAS, and how does it work?
ETIAS is a digital pre-travel authorization used to screen visa-exempt travellers before they enter the Schengen Zone. It is not a visa, but it will be mandatory for Ukrainian passport holders who do not have EU residence status. The authorization covers 30 European countries, including Iceland.
ETIAS vs. visa: What’s the difference?
| Feature | ETIAS | Schengen Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Needed by Ukrainians? | Yes (from 2026, if visa-exempt) | No (for short visits) |
| Application method | Online | Embassy/consulate |
| Validity | 3 years or until passport expires | Varies |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days per trip | Up to 90 days per trip |
| Covers multiple trips? | Yes | Depends on visa type |
What Ukrainians need to apply for ETIAS
Before you start an application, make sure you have:
- A valid Ukrainian biometric passport, with at least three months of validity beyond your planned departure
- A credit or debit card to pay the application fee
- A valid email address
- Basic trip details, such as your country of entry and travel dates
Expert tip from Femke Strietman: “If this is your first time applying, double-check that your passport is biometric.”
Step-by-step: How to apply for Iceland ETIAS from Ukraine
- Visit the official ETIAS portal, or use iVisa if you would like guidance through the process.
- Complete your personal, passport, and travel information.
- Pay the fee and wait for approval, which usually takes anywhere from a few minutes to 72 hours.
There is nothing to print. ETIAS is linked digitally to your passport.
Note that when you use iVisa, you pay the government ETIAS fee plus a separate iVisa service fee for handling and support. Applying directly through the official portal means you pay only the government fee.
How long is ETIAS valid for Ukrainians?
An approved ETIAS gives you three years of validity, access to 30 European countries, and the ability to make multiple trips with stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
ETIAS FAQs for Ukrainian travellers
Do Ukrainians still have visa-free access?
Yes. ETIAS adds a digital pre-screening layer, but it does not remove visa-free travel privileges.
Do refugees or temporary protection holders need ETIAS?
No. The requirement does not apply if you hold EU legal protection or a valid residence permit.
What if I change my passport?
You will need to reapply, because the authorization is tied to a specific passport number.
What if I want to stay longer in Iceland?
Longer stays require a national visa from the Icelandic authorities, for purposes such as study, work, or family reunification. Contact the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration (utl.is) for details.
Still have questions?
You can reach iVisa through WhatsApp or the help center for step-by-step assistance.
