Overseas Travel – Practical Issues
Useful suggestions when travelling overseas.
Driving licences
Icelandic driving licences are valid in the Nordic countries and in the countries within the EEA.
The majority of countries require the presentation of an international drivers licence in addition to a personal drivers licence.
Applications for international drivers licences may be submitted to district magistrates, commissioner of police in Reykjavik and the Icelandic Automobile Association. The licence is valid for one year after its date of issue.
The old type of Icelandic driver's licence is not always recognised abroad, as it does not meet the standards requested in every country.
Tariff preferences
Travellers are entitled to carry a certain quantity of goods (i.e. alcohol, tobacco, etc.) into the country without paying customs duties.
Those bringing dutiable goods on their return to Iceland must present such goods at the red toll gate on arrival.
Certain restrictions apply to the types of goods travellers may bring with them to Iceland and, in some cases, travellers must apply for an import licence.
There is an import ban on certain goods. These include raw foodstuffs, sucking tobacco, habit-forming and narcotic substances, etc.
VAT refund
Travellers may be refunded a proportion of VAT on goods purchased overseas.
A receipt and other necessary documentation must be presented in the departure airport in order to receive the VAT refund.
The precise method of refund differs among countries and airports, and travellers are advised to seek further information on this.
Aircraft passengers with disabilities
Passengers with disabilities travelling by air are entitled to a certain degree of assistance, free of charge, to navigate airports, as well as to special arrangements during the flight.
This applies to air travel within the European Union and the European Economic Area.
Requests for such services must be submitted when the airline ticket is reserved or within any other deadline set by the operator.
Further information may be obtained from airline operators, travel agencies and in airports.