Ifah Sakinah
Image credit: Nicolas J Leclercq
Iceland’s prime minister announces plans to reopen Iceland’s borders to tourists no later than 15 June 2020.
The Nordic Island country intends to administer COVID-19 tests to all travellers arriving at Keflavik Airport. Those who test negative would be free to explore the country. On the contrary, those who test positive would have to be quarantined for 14 days.
Travellers who are able to provide a medical document stating that they are free of the coronavirus infection will be exempted from the test.
The new border process on whether or not to reopen Iceland’s borders is still in the midst of discussion. It remains uncertain whether the tests will only be free for an initial two-week trial period or beyond that.
The government adds that visitors are required to use an official tracing app. Almost 40% of Icelanders are already using the government-backed automated tracing app.
Also read: 20 Things to Do in Iceland Including Reykjavik and The Blue Lagoon
Iceland’s Confirmed Cases Before Reopening Borders
To date, Iceland has 1,802 confirmed cases and 10 deaths – with only three new cases in May. It has proven successful in containing the novel coronavirus with its large-scale testing, tracing, and isolating measures in place.
The country that is home to the largest glaciers in Europe has conducted more tests per capita than any other country. More than 15% of its 364,134 population has been rapidly assessed if they have been infected with the virus.
Throughout the pandemic, Iceland’s borders remain open to other Schengen countries. However, since 24 April, visitors from the various countries are required to self-isolate for a fortnight.
If the airport screening is efficacious, Iceland will consider rolling out similar arrangements at its other border entry points.
With Iceland reopening its borders, travellers can fantasise about taking a dip in the Blue Lagoon!
