COVID-19: Borders – New list of areas and countries that are considered high-risk

New list of areas and countries that are considered high-risk due to COVID-19 enters into force on May 18. The definition of high-risk areas affects which individuals must quarantine in a quarantine facility upon arrival in Iceland. The definition of criteria for determining whether countries or areas are considered high-risk area has not been changed, this is only a change in the countries and regions that are considered high-risk areas due to COVID-19.

Mandatory quarantine in a quarantine facility: Passengers arriving from a country or region where the incidence rate of infection is 700 or higher, must unconditionally quarantine in a quarantine facility. This also applies if the incidence rate of infection is between 500-699 and the ratio of positive samples is 5% or higher, or if the incidence rate is over 500 but satisfactory information on the ratio of positive samples is not available. An exception from this requirement is only granted if there are pressing reasons to do so, such as the individual’s disability, level of mental development or other comparable reasons.

Quarantine requirement in a quarantine facility with the possibility of exemption: Passengers arriving from a country where the incidence rate of infection is between 500-699 and the ratio of positive samples is lower than 5% are required to quarantine in a quarantine facility but can apply for an exemption from the requirement. The same applies to those arriving from places where the incidence rate of infection is under 500 but the ratio of positive samples is 5% or higher or information on the ratio of positive samples is not available. Applicants for an exemption shall adequately demonstrate that they will fulfil all conditions for quarantining in a facility they have arranged. You can register a request for an exemption when pre-registering at visit.covid.is 48-72 hours. before arriving in the country.

Certification of vaccination or prior infection: As before, those who submit a vaccination certificate or a certificate of a prior infection will only be required to undergo one test upon arrival in the country. It is important that they not interact with others and follow quarantine rules while they await the test results.

• Advertisement regarding regions and countries that are considered to be special high-risk areas for COVID-19 (enters into force on May 18)