Coronavirus: Popular tourist destination allows tourists again, but only with an annual salary of over 74,000 euros

The tourism industry * has suffered enormously since the start of the corona pandemic. And countries in particular, whose income comes primarily from this branch of the economy, must be creative to make travel possible, safe and profitable. Iceland has invented something very special.

Entrance despite Corona: Icelandic tourists have to earn a lot of money

Before the pandemic, according to the online portal Skift, tourism revenues represented 42% of the Icelandic economy. Now the land of fire and ice offers Foreign citizensthose who work remotely for a company or are self-employed require a long-term visa, that stay in Iceland for up to six months allows.

To be approved for extended stay, the person must “provide proof of employment with a foreign company (or proof of self-employment in which he has a permanent residence) and meet the income and health insurance requirements”, the website reads “Work in Iceland.” And the income requirements are huge: according to Bloomberg, interested people must one million Icelandic kronor earn a month (about 6,200 euros per month). This results in a Annual salary of around 74,500 euros.

Also interesting: This tourist destination will likely allow tourists again in a year, with one exception.

Crown times in Iceland: why are only high-income tourists allowed?

“I think it is high-income professionals from Silicon Valley or San Francisco so that they can spend their money here instead of there, “Icelandic politician Asta Gudrun Helgadottir said of the new regulations. The measure seems to be tailored precisely to this target group. Although the guests are not strictly tourists, there is hope they stimulate the economy Take advantage of unused Airbnbs, fill empty restaurants and explore nature on weekends.

According to the Bloomberg report, locals also assume this measure will generate income, without attracting large crowds – and without burdening the health system. There is currently one more valid for entry to Iceland 14-day quarantinewhich can be shortened with a negative corona test on entry. However, this has to be paid for for you and costs around 58 euros. (fk) * Merkur.de is part of the national Ippen-Digital publishing network.

read also: This island is only allowed to visit those who have already had the corona virus.

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