Domestic Violence Protection
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Icelandic Acts of the Althingi, statutory instruments, and official guidance.
What is this right?
Iceland provides strong protections against domestic violence:
Restraining Orders (Act No. 85/2011):
- Police can impose a 72-hour restraining order to prevent the abuser from approaching the victim.
- Courts can extend restraining orders for up to 1 year.
- Police can physically remove perpetrators from the home for up to 4 weeks at a time.
- Police must make a decision on restraining order/expulsion requests within 3 days.
Who can request protection: The victim, family members, a child's guardian, social or child protection services, or the head of police on their own initiative.
Criminal penalties: Violating a restraining order: fines or imprisonment up to 1 year. Domestic violence under the Penal Code: fines to up to 16 years' imprisonment depending on severity.
When does it apply?
- You are a victim of domestic violence — physical, sexual, psychological, or economic abuse by a partner, family member, or close contact.
- A child in your care is being abused.
What should you do?
- Call the police (112) — they can impose an immediate restraining order.
- Contact the Women's Shelter (Kvennaathvarfið) at (+354) 561 1205 for emergency shelter and support.
- The District Commissioner can extend protection orders through the courts.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't stay silent — reporting is the first step to protection. You will not be punished for reporting.
- Don't confront the abuser — use the legal protections available through police and courts.
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