Iceland to Welcome Travelers with a Free COVID-19 Test on June 15

In a news release by the Government of Iceland on May 12, 2020, they have announced that they expect to start easing restrictions on international arrivals no later than June 15, 2020.

“When travellers return to Iceland we want to have all mechanisms in place to safeguard them and the progress made in controlling the pandemic. Iceland’s strategy of large-scale testing, tracing and isolating have proven effective so far. We want to build on that experience of creating a safe place for those who want a change of scenery after what has been a tough spring for all of us.”

– Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Innovation

Moreover, according to Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarson on May 12, 2020, “With only three cases of the virus diagnosed in May, we are once again ready to carefully open our doors to the world. While we remain cautious, we are optimistic as a country that we can successfully begin our journey back to normality.”

14-Day Quarantine/COVID-19 Test for Travelers

Still based on the same news release, travelers who are bound for Iceland will be given a choice between a 14-day quarantine or being tested for the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) upon their arrival.

However, the exact requirements are still being developed. According to the Iceland Government, the final details on the easing of quarantine requirements for travelers are to be announced by the end of this month.

Travelers from Other Countries with High Risk of Infection

Furthermore, in another government update published on May 15, 2020, it is stated that those who will be arriving in Iceland from other countries with a high risk of infection must still undergo a 14-day quarantine.

Their quarantine shall start from their day of arrival.

Persons Eligible for Modified Quarantine

In Iceland, there is also such thing as a modified quarantine.

According to the government of Iceland, modified quarantine allows companies to request an exemption from home quarantine, provided they comply with extensive requirements around their environment and enact safety procedures.

Since May 15, 2020, there are already some individuals who are considered eligible to apply for modified quarantine.

These individuals include professionals and those who are traveling to Iceland for work, including scientists and academics, filmmakers, athletes, and journalists.

SOURCE 

Government of Iceland, May 12, 2020

Government of Iceland, May 15, 2020

The Directorate of Immigration