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Factors That Delay Processing for Indians

Why do some applicants get their visa in 10 days while others wait 40?

• Dummy Tickets: The most common cause for delay (and rejection) in 2025 is the use of unverified "dummy" flight tickets. The visa officers verify PNRs. If your PNR expires during the 15-day processing window, the officer has to pause the file and contact you for a valid ticket, adding 5–10 days to the process.

• Peak Season Traffic: Iceland is trending heavily among Indian tourists for the Northern Lights (Winter) and Midnight Sun (Summer). During these months, the sheer volume of applications creates a backlog.

• Biometrics Validity: If you have given Schengen biometrics (fingerprints) in the last 59 months, you might technically be exempt, but VFS India often requires re-submission for Iceland specifically to ensure data quality, which adds a physical appointment step.

Additionally, you can connect with check Iceland visa for Indians to know more 

Common Rejection Reasons for Indian Applicants

Despite a high approval rate (approx. 90%+ for Indians), rejections happen. The rejection letter usually cites generic reasons, but here is what they actually mean in the Indian context:

• "Justification for the purpose of the intended stay was not reliable": This often means your itinerary looks copy-pasted. If you plan to drive the Ring Road, but don't have a valid driving license or rental car quote attached, it raises red flags.

• "Proof of sufficient means of subsistence": An estimate is required.₹9,000–₹10,000 per day of stay in liquid funds (savings account), after paying for hotels and flights. Fixed Deposits are good secondary proof, but the Embassy looks for accessible cash in your savings account statements.

VFS Global India: "Premium" Services vs. Reality

When you visit VFS Global to submit your file, you will be offered "Premium Lounge" services (costing approx. ₹3,000–₹4,000).

• Does it speed up the visa? No. The Premium Lounge only speeds up your submission process at the VFS center (shorter queue, free photocopies, snacks). It has zero influence on how fast the Embassy processes your file.

• Is it worth it? Only if you value comfort and want personal assistance to ensure your documents are arranged in the exact order the Embassy prefers (which can prevent "incomplete document" delays).

FAQ: Iceland Visa for Indians

Q: Can I track my Iceland visa application status online?

A: Yes, you can track it on the VFS Global website using your Reference Number (e.g., ISL/DEL/010126/0001) and Date of Birth. However, the status updates are often delayed. SMS alerts are more reliable if you opt for them.

Q: Do I need travel insurance before applying?

A: Yes, mandatory. You must have travel insurance covering at least €30,000 (approx. ₹27 Lakhs) valid for the entire Schengen area. Indian insurers like Tata AIG, Reliance, or ICICI Lombard are widely accepted.

Q: Is an interview required?

A: Generally, no. However, the Embassy may call you for a phone interview or ask you to visit if your itinerary is unclear or if you are a solo traveler with no prior travel history.

Q: What if my visa is delayed and my travel date is near?

A: You can email the Embassy of Iceland in New Delhi directly. They are responsive to urgent queries if your travel date is within 3 days, but they cannot guarantee expedited processing.

Final Checklist for Faster Approval

1. Bank Statements: Ensure they are stamped and signed by the bank (online printouts are often rejected).

2. Cover Letter: Clearly explain why you want to visit Iceland. Mention specific sights (e.g., "I want to see the Skógafoss waterfall") rather than generic "tourism."

3. Itinerary: Create a realistic day-wise plan. Do not list "Reykjavik" for 10 days; it looks suspicious for a tourist visa. Show movement across the country.