TRAVELLERS' CHEQUES, DEBIT and CREDIT CARDS: 
Are widely accepted in Iceland. The major cards in Iceland are MASTERCARD and VISA. Cash can be obtained at every bank branch (over 170) as well as in all ATMs throughout the country.

SHOPPING:
The shops in Iceland are of international standard, and carry a wide variety of merchandise. Local specialties are woollen knitwear, handmade ceramics, glassware and jewelry.

TAX-FREE SHOPPING:
A refund of local Value-Added Tax (VAT) is available to all visitors in Iceland, up to 15% reduction. The purchase amount must be no less than ISK 4,000 (VAT included) per store.

TIPPING:
Service and VAT are included in prices in Iceland.

BUSINESS/SHOPPING/BANKING HOURS:
Office hours are generally 09:00-17:00. Shopping hours Mon-Fri 09:00-18:00, Sat 10:00 - 13:00 or 16:00. Some supermarkets are open to 23:00 seven days a week. Banking hours Mon-Fri 09:00-16:00.

TELEPHONES:
The code into Iceland from overseas is +354 followed by a seven-digit number. Direct long-distance calls can be made to Europe and the USA by dialing 00 + the country code, and the telephone number.

MOBILE PHONES:
GSM: Pre-paid GSM phone cards are available at the next phone operation store, fx. Síminn and Vodafone and at petrol stations around the country.

HEALTH/PHARMACIES/EMERGENCY MEDICALHELP:
Icelanders enjoy a healthy life, thanks to clean air and water and quality fish. Water is safe to drink throughout Iceland. Pharmacies are called "Apótek" and are open during normal business hours, some 24hrs. General practitioners, as well as specialists, many of whom will receive patients at short notice.

VACCINATIONS:
Vaccinations are not required.

MEDICAL HELP:
There is a medical centre or a hospital in all major cities and towns in Iceland. The emergency phone number (24 hours) in Iceland is 112.

HEALTH INSURANCE:
Citizens of Scandinavia have to show passport in case of medical emergency. Citizens of EEA countries must have the E-111 form, otherwise the patient will be charged in full. Citizens of other countries must be charged in full. For further information contact:

State Social Security Institute
Laugavegur114 • IS-105 Reykjavík
Tel.: +354-560-4400 • +354-560-4520
Fax: +354-562-5053
Office hours 08:05-15:30