LGBT employment discrimination in Iceland is sexual orientation and gender identity.
Sexual orientation and gender identity
In 2018, Iceland passed the Act on Equal Treatment in the Labour Market, which protects people from discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics.
Same-sex adoption in Iceland
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Same-sex adoption in Iceland is legal.
Current status
Equal age of consent in Iceland
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Equal age of consent in Iceland is equal.
The age of consent in Iceland is 15 for both male-male, female-female, and male-female couples.
LGBT Rights by Region
View the LGBT laws in each individual region of Iceland.
LGBTQ+ Wedding in Iceland: Laws, Locations & Planning Guide
Imagine this: You and your partner, wrapped in cozy woolen shawls, standing on a black sand beach, the roar of the Atlantic behind you.
Enjoy the vibrant LGBTQ+ culture that Iceland has to offer while remaining vigilant and staying informed.
The LGBT Social Situation In Iceland
Iceland has made major strides in advancing LGBT rights, making it one of the most progressive countries in the world. While enjoying the beauty and culture of Iceland, err on the side of caution and ensure that your actions align with local customs and values.
Tourists visiting Iceland can expect a fairly inclusive and accepting atmosphere, but it’s always best to stay up-to-date with reliable information and seek current advice before traveling.
Notably, Iceland is home to the world’s first openly gay head of government, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, who held office from 2009 to 2013. This progressive atmosphere can allow LGBT individuals to live more confidently and openly in Iceland.
Tourists visiting Iceland can generally expect a warm and welcoming environment.
While the local population is generally supportive and accepting of LGBT people, tourists may face some challenges depending on where they’re coming from. Established in 1978, this organization has played a key role in achieving LGBTQ+ equality in Iceland.
It is vital to remember that situations can change quickly in any country, and information might become outdated.
Thanks to Iceland’s inclusive policies, changing your gender has been legal since 2012, with surgery not being required. Keep in mind that while Iceland has made significant progress in ensuring equal rights for the LGBT community, it’s still vital to remain mindful of others and to respect the local culture.
Samtökin 78, The National Queer Organization of Iceland, is a prominent advocacy group that works tirelessly to promote LGBT rights and equality within the country.
The first-ever LGBTI Action Programme, adopted in 2022, focuses on 21 actions aimed at improving LGBTI rights in Iceland, showcasing the government’s dedication to equality and inclusivity.
People visiting Iceland can expect a generally progressive and welcoming environment. While the legal situation in Iceland is positive, bad actors can exist in any country.
One way to do this is to stay up-to-date with the latest news and information from Icelandic LGBT advocacy groups, such as the ’78 Association (Samtökin ’78), which is Iceland’s oldest and most established LGBTQIA rights organization. It’s always best to seek current advice before traveling and be aware of potential challenges that may still exist.
To stay informed and connected to LGBTI advocacy, reach out to local organizations such as Samtökin ’78, Iceland’s primary LGBTI rights organization.
Local groups that advocate for LGBT rights in Iceland, like Samtökin 78, The National Queer Organization of Iceland, can provide valuable resources, guidance, and support.
As a traveler, embrace the excitement of exploring Iceland’s beautiful landscapes and hospitable culture, knowing that the country values and respects the rights of its LGBT community.
They’re celebrated.
“My wife and I eloped in Iceland in 2022. Iceland presents an incredible opportunity for LGBT individuals to experience a progressive society in a breathtaking setting, proving that the land of fire and ice is a true rainbow paradise.
History Of LGBT Rights In Iceland
Iceland has come a long way in terms of LGBT rights, and it’s an exciting journey worth sharing.
Reynisfjara (Black Sand Beach Wedding)
This beach near Vík is the stuff of legends—dramatic waves, towering basalt columns, and eerie beauty. We were worried about how locals would react, but the love we received was overwhelming. Whether it’s a glacier elopement or a cozy fjord ceremony, I’ll ensure your wedding photos look like something out of a dream.
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❓ LGBTQ+ Wedding in Iceland: FAQ
Q: Can foreigners get married in Iceland? A: Yes! Iceland allows non-residents to marry with minimal paperwork.
Q: Do we need a wedding officiant? A: If you’re having a civil ceremony, the district commissioner will officiate.
Absolutely!
Iceland has been ahead of the game when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. ✅ Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010 (one of the first countries to do so). ✅ Before that, Iceland had legal partnerships for same-sex couples since 1996. ✅ The country even had the world’s first openly gay prime minister, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir.
But what really makes Iceland special?
Another thrilling milestone was reached in February 2009, when Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir became the world’s first openly gay head of government in modern times.
When it comes to Iceland’s attitude towards the LGBT community, there is a marked difference between locals and tourists. Over the years, the country has made strides in ensuring that trans people can live as who they are without discrimination or attack.
In terms of legal rights, Iceland allows for gender changes without requiring surgery.
Say your vows in front of Seljalandsfoss, where you can even stand behind the waterfall (just bring waterproof boots).
🧊 3. This progressive outlook extends to a range of legal protections, including same-sex marriage and adoption rights, anti-discrimination measures, and gender identity recognition.
While Iceland is widely known for being LGBT-friendly, residents and travelers need to remain aware of their surroundings and stay vigilant; like any other place, there may be bad actors or unforeseen circumstances that require caution.
Surveys in Iceland have revealed an overwhelming acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ rights among most of the population.
Survey results from 12 LGBTQ+ Equaldex users who lived in or visited Iceland.
Perceived Safety*
Absence of verbal harassment
Absence of threats and violence
*Survey results represent personal perceptions of safety and may not be indicative of current actual conditions.
Equal Treatment
Treatment by general public
Treatment by law enforcement
Treatment by religious groups
Visibility & Representation
Representation in entertainment
Culture
Interest groups and clubs
Services
Support and social services
History
Censorship of LGBT issues in Iceland
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Censorship of LGBT issues in Iceland is no censorship.
Right to change legal gender in Iceland
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Right to change legal gender in Iceland is legal, no restrictions.
Current status
A new law has been passed that allows Icelandic people to change their registered gender without medical interventions.
Legal, but requires surgery
In 2012, Iceland passed the Act on the Legal Status of Individuals with Gender Identity Disorder, which provided for legal gender recognition on the condition of sex reassignment surgery.
Iceland Earns Top Marks for Equality in Global Wedding Study
Iceland has been named the world’s second-safest country for LGBTQ+ destination weddings, according to a new study by Destify, which analysed global data on LGBTQ+ rights, laws and safety.
The study ranked Iceland just behind Spain, awarding it a safety score of 90.2 out of 100.