Travel Date: July 2021
Note! As the situation with Covid continues to change rapidly, the information on this page is correct as of July 12, 2021. However, I will do my best to continue to update this page.
Why Iceland (again), and The Faroe Islands?
- I wanted to go somewhere that’s been generally safe from Covid
- There is free movement for fully-vaccinated travelers like myself
- It’s summertime, and a great time to see Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- I decided on the Faroes (vs. Greenland) due to restrictions as well as costs – both have been on my list for a long time
First, Lots of Research
As more countries open up in time for summer travel, the confusing rules and restrictions by country has been basically a mess for people who want to travel. Considerations include:
- Proof of vaccination or previous infection
- Entry Covid test result or testing requirement
- Quarantine
- Pre-departure testing for return to the US
On top of all this, rules change frequently as conditions evolve. It’s important to stay on top of the latest news to ensure you are always prepared for your trip.
Then, Two Useful Sites
Iceland
Covid.is is the website that offers official Covid-related information for Iceland, including the current situation, as well as entry requirements and registration.
The Faroe Islands
Corona.fo is the website that offers official Covid-related information for The Faroe Islands including guidelines for travelers and testing information.
All About Vaccination and Testing
Iceland
Proof of Vaccination. Iceland requires proof of full vaccination to waive quarantine requirements. This means you must arrive in Iceland 14 days after the final dose. As an American, I already have the physical CDC vaccination card which would serve as proof of vaccination. In addition, California has also launched a Digital Covid-19 Vaccine Record which you probably could use as proof.
Entry Testing. This one depends on the requirements of the country you’re going to. For Iceland, no testing requirement will be required after July 1st if you can prove you’ve been fully vaccinated or had a prior infection.
New: As of 27 July 2021, all travelers to Iceland, regardless of vaccination status, must present a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of departure of their flight to Iceland. We were not subject to this requirement as we entered Iceland prior to this.
The Faroe Islands
Proof of Vaccination. In the Faroe Islands, vaccinated travelers no longer need to quarantine based on an announcement on 16 May. Non-vaccinated travelers are asked to avoid being in large groups.
Entry Testing. As of the date of this post, entry testing is mandatory at Vágar Airport for all passengers arriving by air, regardless of nationality or vaccination status.
Returning to the US
Pre-departure Testing. All travelers to the United States are required to submit proof of a negative Covid test within 3 days of boarding their flight to the US.
Prior to Departure
Iceland
All passengers are required to register online no more than 72 hours prior to your arrival to Iceland.
The Faroe Islands
No additional paperwork is required prior to departure. However, through 31 August 2021, all arriving passengers 12 years and older must pay a Covid-19 tax of DKK 312 (US$50) per passenger prior to departure. If you do not pay the amount in advance, a small penalty of DKK 38 will be levied. Moreover, you will wait longer at the airport.