Iceland has been one of the hottest destinations for travellers in the past few years. Tourists flock to watch the mesmerising Northern lights to this country every year. A year ago, tourism accounted for 42% of Iceland’s economy. However, now, the country has seen a 79% decline due to the ongoing pandemic. While Iceland has used to downtime to build infrastructures and sites for tourists, it is still anxious to kickstart tourism. To revive its economy, Iceland has set some new rules for travellers.
Also read: The Gorgeous Ring Road Of Iceland Lets You Drive Through Lava Fields And Majestic Ice Caps
Iceland Is Extending Its Long-Term Visa Programme
Now Iceland has expanded its long-term visa program beyond the European Schengen area. Now, it is allowing other citizens, including Americans, to stay in the country for up to six months. However, there is one significant condition to avail such a visa. Anyone looking for an extended stay in Iceland, must be working with a foreign company or verify self-employment in the country where they have a permanent residence. Vatna Glacier In Iceland Will Give You An Answer To What Paradise Looks Like.
Long-Stay Travellers Should Meet The Minimum Income Requirement
Every traveller should meet the minimum income and health insurance requirements. The minimum income is set at one million Icelandic krona monthly, which is equal to about $7,360 monthly or $88,000 annually. This is approximately ₹6 lakhs a month in Indian currency. This rule is put in place to attract high-earning professionals from Silicon Valley or San Francisco who can spend their money here. Iceland’s Magical See-Through Bubble Lets You Sleep Under The Northern Lights
The Wealthy Tourists Will Help Revive Iceland’s Economy
Iceland hopes that the wealthy tourists who book the Airbnbs, spend money at restaurants, and take weekend trips around the country will help revive their economy. Longer trips can prove very fruitful to bring back Iceland’s tourism. Iceland always had a high cost of living, and the country had already started veering toward high-end travellers. In hotels like the Blue Lagoon’s Retreat Hotel rooms start at about $1,300 a night.
Rich tourists will opt for Iceland because of its built-in social distancing and the seclusion that it offers.