Relaxation of epidemic rules took effect domestically at midnight. These are the weakest rules that have applied domestically since last summer. The regulation is valid for just over three weeks or until 16 June.
This is in line with the government’s otherwise widely worded elimination plan, with 55.4% of Icelanders aged 16 and over now receiving at least one injection of Covid-19 vaccine. Of these, 27.2% are fully vaccinated.
The main changes that have now taken effect are:
- General meeting restrictions are based on 150 people instead of 50.
- The obligation to wear a mask now becomes an exception rather than a rule and becomes not valid in shops and workplaces. However, masks will still be required to be worn at sit-in events, such as theatrical performances, cinema shows and sporting events.
- The maximum number of spectators at sitting events goes from 150 to 300 people.
- The opening hours of restaurants are extended by one hour. Guests are allowed to receive and sell alcohol and food until 11 pm and all guests must leave before midnight.
- Swimming pools and other bathing resorts, campsites, ski resorts and museums may accommodate the maximum number of guests allowed under the operating licence. Previously, it had been based on 75%.
- Fitness centres may also accommodate the maximum number of guests instead of 75%, but in such a way that there are no more than 150 people in the same space.
- The two-meter rule will still be the general rule. In schools, restaurants, sports halls and swimming pools, however, one meter can be used.
- There will still be restrictions on the number of visitors per square meter in stores. However, there will no longer be a maximum number of 200 people. This means that larger stores can accommodate more visitors.