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Iceland Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Afghanistan citizens require a Schengen visa to travel to Iceland—apply via VFS Global in a neighboring country; fees start at EUR 80, processing takes approximately 15 working days.

Guide last updated July 19, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport:
  • Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Iceland.
  • Must contain at least two blank pages.
  • Must have been issued within the last 10 years.
  • Visa Application Form:
  • Completed and signed Schengen visa application form. Downloadable from the VFS Global website for the country you are applying from.
  • Passport Photos:
  • Two recent passport-sized photographs.
  • Size: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm.
  • White or light-colored background.
  • Face clearly visible, neutral expression, no headwear unless for religious reasons (face fully visible).
  • Proof of Financial Means:
  • Bank statements for the last 3-6 months showing sufficient funds to cover your stay.
  • Specific minimum amount is not officially stated by Iceland for general tourism but is typically estimated at EUR 50-100 per day per person.
  • Salary slips for the last 3-6 months.
  • Letter from employer confirming employment and salary (if applicable).
  • Proof of Accommodation:
  • Hotel bookings for the entire duration of your stay.
  • If staying with friends/family, an invitation letter from the host, along with proof of their legal status in Iceland (e.g., copy of ID or residence permit).
  • Travel Itinerary and Return Ticket:
  • Detailed travel itinerary including planned activities.
  • Confirmed return flight ticket or booking.
  • Travel Health Insurance:
  • Mandatory. Must cover medical expenses and repatriation.
  • Minimum coverage of EUR 30,000.
  • Valid for the entire Schengen area for the duration of your stay.
  • Biometrics:
  • Fingerprints and digital photograph (biometric data) are required.
  • This is typically collected at the VFS Global center when submitting your application.
  • Other Documents:
  • Copy of your national ID card.
  • Proof of employment or student status (e.g., letter from employer/university).
  • If self-employed, proof of business registration and tax returns.
  • For minors, birth certificate and consent letter from parents if traveling alone or with one parent.

Visa Types for Afghanistan Citizens

  • Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa Type C):
  • Official Name: Short-stay Schengen visa.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: 90 days.
  • Entry: Usually single or double entry, can be multiple entry depending on assessment.
  • Approximate Fee: EUR 80 (adults).
  • Business Visa (Schengen Visa Type C):
  • Official Name: Short-stay Schengen visa.
  • For attending meetings, conferences, or business-related activities.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: 90 days.
  • Entry: Usually single or double entry, can be multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: EUR 80 (adults).
  • Visit/Family Visa (Schengen Visa Type C):
  • Official Name: Short-stay Schengen visa.
  • For visiting family or friends.
  • Requires an invitation letter.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: 90 days.
  • Entry: Usually single or double entry, can be multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: EUR 80 (adults).
  • Student Visa (Long-stay, National Visa D - if applicable for stays over 90 days):
  • This is a national visa, not a Schengen visa.
  • Requires admission to an Icelandic educational institution.
  • Apply directly to the Directorate of Immigration (utl.is).
  • Processing times can be significantly longer.
  • Fees vary and are determined by the Directorate of Immigration.
  • Work Visa (Long-stay, National Visa D):
  • Requires a job offer from an Icelandic employer and a work and residence permit approval.
  • Apply directly to the Directorate of Immigration (utl.is).
  • Processing times can be significantly longer.
  • Fees vary and are determined by the Directorate of Immigration.

How to apply (Sticker Visa)

  • Due to the lack of an Icelandic embassy or consulate in Afghanistan, applications must be submitted through a VFS Global center or an embassy of another Schengen country representing Iceland in a neighboring country (e.g., Pakistan, UAE).
  • Step 1: Determine the correct VFS Global or embassy location. Check the VFS Global website for the most up-to-date information regarding representation for Iceland.
  • Step 2: Complete the Schengen visa application form accurately and honestly.
  • Step 3: Gather all required supporting documents as listed in the 'What you need' section. Ensure documents are translated into English or Icelandic if necessary.
  • Step 4: Book an appointment online through the VFS Global website or the designated embassy's portal.
  • Step 5: Attend your appointment at the VFS Global center or embassy. Submit your application form, passport, supporting documents, and pay the visa fee and service fee.
  • Step 6: Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) if not already on file within the last 59 months.
  • Step 7: Attend a visa interview if requested by the consular officer. This is more common for certain visa types or specific applicant profiles.
  • Step 8: Track your application status online via the VFS Global website. Your passport will be returned to you, either by mail or for collection at the VFS center.

Fees & Processing Time

  • Visa Fee:
  • Standard Schengen visa fee for adults: EUR 80.
  • For applicants aged 12-18: EUR 40.
  • For children under 12: Free.
  • The fee is payable in the local currency of the country where you apply, or in USD if specified by VFS Global.
  • VFS Global Service Fee:
  • This fee varies by country but is typically around EUR 20-40 (or equivalent in local currency).
  • Paid directly to VFS Global at the time of application submission.
  • Total Cost Estimate:
  • Approximately EUR 100-120 per adult applicant, plus any additional costs for optional services.
  • Standard Processing Time:
  • Approximately 15 working days from the date of submission.
  • This can extend up to 45 days during peak seasons or if further documentation is required.
  • Express/Priority Option:
  • Generally, there is no official express or priority service for Schengen visa applications through VFS Global. However, processing times can sometimes be faster depending on the workload of the consulate.

Tips for Afghanistan Travelers

  • Apply Well in Advance:
  • It is highly recommended to apply for your visa at least 2-3 months before your intended travel date. This allows ample time for document preparation, appointment booking, and processing, mitigating potential delays.
  • Common Rejection Reasons for Afghanistan Applicants:
  • Insufficient proof of financial means: This is a critical factor. Ensure bank statements clearly show consistent income and sufficient funds for the entire trip.
  • Lack of clear ties to home country: Demonstrating strong ties (employment, family, property) is crucial to convince immigration authorities of your intention to return after your visit.
  • Incomplete or inconsistent documentation: Double-check all forms and supporting documents for accuracy and completeness. Any discrepancies can lead to rejection.
  • Unclear purpose of visit: Be precise about your reason for traveling to Iceland.
  • Previous immigration violations: If you have a history of overstaying visas or immigration issues, this can negatively impact your application.
  • VFS Global vs. Direct Embassy Application:
  • As there are no Icelandic diplomatic missions in Afghanistan, applying through VFS Global or a representative embassy is the standard procedure. VFS Global offers a streamlined process for document submission and biometric collection.
  • Travel Advisories:
  • Always check the latest travel advisories issued by your country of residence and by Iceland (if available) before planning your trip. Be aware of any specific security or entry requirements.
  • Extension Options Inside Iceland:
  • Visa extensions within Iceland are generally very difficult to obtain for short-stay Schengen visas and are only granted in exceptional humanitarian circumstances or force majeure. It is advisable to plan your trip within the allowed duration of your visa.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.