Iceland News in English

Iceland's Progress Party: 80M ISK Profit After Election Rout

Iceland's centrist Progress Party posted a near 80-million ISK profit in 2024, a year it suffered a devastating election loss. The windfall, fueled by public funds and a headquarters sale, masks a severe political crisis as the party loses six seats. This financial paradox puts Iceland's party funding model under scrutiny.

Iceland Businessman Challenges Independence Party in Reykjanesbær

Business executive Ásgeir Elvar Garðarsson is challenging for leadership of the Independence Party in Reykjanesbær, Iceland. He promises to run the municipality 'more like an efficient company,' setting up a clash over governance style ahead of 2026 elections. The primary vote on January 31, 2026, will test the appetite for political outsiders.

Iceland Special Forces Raid Selfoss: 1 Arrested

Iceland's elite police special forces raided a home in Selfoss, arresting one individual. The rare deployment of the armed tactical unit in the quiet southern town has raised questions about the nature of the threat and police secrecy. The community awaits answers as the case enters the judicial system.

Iceland Traffic Accident: 1 Hospitalized in Reykjavik

A serious two-car collision on Reykjavik's Breiðholtsbraut sent one person to the hospital, disrupting traffic and highlighting ongoing urban road safety challenges. Iceland's overall traffic injury rate has improved, but experts say intersections and driver behavior require constant scrutiny. The incident will feed into broader Nordic efforts to eliminate serious traffic accidents.

Iceland Healthcare for Expats: A 2024 Guide

Iceland's top-tier healthcare system can be complex for newcomers. Our guide breaks down the essential steps for expats, from mandatory registration and understanding costs to finding English-speaking doctors and navigating emergencies.

Navigating Iceland's Healthcare System as an Expat

Iceland's healthcare requires registration and co-payments. Expats need private insurance initially. English-speaking doctors are accessible, but understand costs and wait times.

Iceland's Revival Party to Hold Leadership Primary

Lilja Rannveig Elected Progressive Party Secretary

Iceland Party Leader Steps Down Amid AI Energy Debate

Icelandic minister resigned after family conflict complaint

Iceland's Cruise Ship Infrastructure Fee Six Times Higher Than Hotel Tax

Icelandic Companies Lead in Sustainability Reporting

Iceland Banks Halt Mortgages Amid Legal Uncertainty

Magnús Bankruptcy Case Reopened After 16 Years

Small Nations Profit from Domain Games with Country Codes

Icelandic AI Protects People From Deepfake Identity Theft

Iceland Apartment Fire: 1 Critical, Smoke Inhalation

Icelandair Flight Diverted: Turbulence Halts Egilsstaðir Route

Finding Affordable Housing in Iceland: A Practical Guide

Bullying Investigation at Iceland's National Audit Office

Iceland Investment Guide 2026: Navigating Foreign Ownership in the Nordic Context

Comprehensive guide to Iceland's 2026 investment landscape, detailing foreign ownership rules, sector opportunities, application processes, and Nordic cultural context for international investors seeking stable returns with environmental responsibility.

Understanding Inheritance Tax Exemptions in Iceland

Iceland's inheritance tax system offers significant exemptions for spouses, children, and family businesses. Understanding these rules helps families preserve wealth across generations. Proper planning and timely filing maximize available benefits.

Emergency Medical Care for Tourists in Iceland

Iceland provides comprehensive emergency medical care for tourists through its universal healthcare system. Understanding when to call 112, managing costs with travel insurance, and preparing for remote travel ensures safety. This guide covers practical steps for handling medical emergencies across Iceland's diverse landscapes.

Iceland Living Guide: Cost, Culture and Climate Insights

Iceland offers stunning nature and high living costs. This guide details expenses from housing to groceries. It explains cultural norms and climate adaptation strategies for newcomers.

Iceland Weather Warnings Issued for Storm Conditions

Icelandic authorities have issued yellow weather warnings for eastern regions as a snowstorm approaches. Wind speeds up to 20 m/s with blowing snow may cause travel disruptions through Thursday morning. Travelers are advised to check conditions before departing.

New Stargazing Spot Opens Near Reykjavík

A new stargazing shelter opened in Heiðmörk nature reserve near Reykjavík. The facility offers protection from light pollution and harsh winds, making it ideal for viewing stars and northern lights. Experts recommend visiting during the current clear weather conditions.

Iceland Air Traffic Controller Strike Talks Postponed

Icelandic air traffic controller strike talks postponed until Thursday morning, though three work stoppages remain scheduled. The labor dispute could disrupt flights at Keflavík and Reykjavík airports through Saturday, affecting international travel.

Iceland Considers Legalizing Foreign Gambling Sites

Iceland's Justice Minister proposes opening the gambling market to foreign websites as billions flow abroad annually. Current laws from 2005 fail to address online betting. The government seeks Nordic-inspired regulations rather than maintaining ineffective bans.

Icelandic Priest: Confirmation Focus Should Be Faith Basics

An Icelandic priest argues confirmation classes should prioritize religious fundamentals over sex education. The comments follow a controversy in Akureyri where a parent withdrew a child from classes after sex education instruction. The debate reflects broader questions about religious education in modern Iceland.

Iceland Bank Halts Indexed Mortgages After Court Ruling

Arion Bank temporarily stops issuing indexed mortgages following Iceland's Supreme Court ruling on loan terms. The bank seeks solutions during legal uncertainty while non-indexed loans remain available. This affects Iceland's housing market during ongoing inflation concerns.

Remax Owner Charged With Market Manipulation in Iceland

Icelandic prosecutors charge Remax franchise owner Þórarinn Arnar Sævarsson with manipulating Kviku bank shares in 2020. The case involves 71 suspicious trades allegedly designed to create false market impressions. Authorities seek criminal penalties and full legal cost coverage.

Iceland Waste Fund Rejects Sorpa's Recycling Cost Claims

Iceland's Recycling Fund pushes back against Sorpa's waste fee increases, claiming the waste management company should have known drink carton processing wasn't covered. The dispute centers on 75 million ISK in retroactive costs for specialized recycling that Sorpa began without proper approval. Sorpa now says it will stop sorting drink cartons, calling the process ineffective and too expensive.