For talented people from throughout the world, Iceland’s hospitable work visa policies will present interesting job chances. Iceland’s streamlined work visa application process is making it a more alluring location for job seekers across the globe. Explore the various career opportunities in this article to see whether you can relocate permanently to this beautiful and vibrant nation.

Iceland is a desirable location for foreign job seekers due to its dynamic work culture and variety of chances. Comprehending the work visa procedure is essential for a seamless shift. An indispensable guide for submitting an Iceland Work Visa application is provided by this article.

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Understanding Iceland Work Visa Regulations (Legal Aspect):

Act No. 80/2016 on Foreign Nationals governs the right to reside in Iceland, whereas the Foreign Nationals’ Right to Work Act No. 97/2002 and Regulation No. 339/2005 govern the right to work.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Iceland?

A temporary work visa is not needed for nationals of the Faroe Islands, the European Economic Area (EEA), or the European Free Trade Agreement (EFTA). On the other hand, most others will require a permit.

No work permit is required for citizens of the Faroe Islands, EFTA, or EEA. Citizens of any of these nations do not need to obtain a work permit in order to work in Iceland.

Work permits are typically required from foreign nationals. To work in Iceland, you will often require an Icelandic work/residence permit if you are not a citizen of an EEA, EFTA, or Faroe Islands nation.

Special cases:

• Short-term assignments (up to 90 days): In some circumstances, such as attending conferences or working on particular projects, you are permitted to work in Iceland for up to 90 days annually without permission. But your employer has to give advance notice to the Directorate of Labour.
• Self-employment (limited exceptions): Generally speaking, self-employment is prohibited if you need a work visa unless you meet certain requirements, such as working for a foreign corporation or possessing particular talents.

Types of Iceland Work Permits Available:

There are seven different kinds of work permits in Iceland:

Benefits of Iceland Work Visa Process:

• High Life Quality: Iceland has a high life quality index, with excellent healthcare, a clean environment, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance.
• prospects for Business: Iceland’s economy is broad, offering business prospects in fields including technology, renewable energy, tourism, and fishing. The nation is renowned for its efforts in sustainability and innovation.
• Work Environment: Collaborative and encouraging work cultures are highly valued in Icelandic businesses, and they can be advantageous for both professional and personal development.
• Magnificent Natural Beauty: Iceland offers residents access to rare natural treasures including geysers, volcanoes, and glaciers. This might be a huge benefit if you like being outside and taking in beautiful scenery.
• Low Crime Rate: Iceland is among the world’s safest nations, offering foreigners and their families a safe haven.
• Good Society: Newcomers may find it simpler to fit in with the community in Iceland because of the people’s well-known warmth and openness.
• Robust Labor Laws: The nation boasts strong labor laws that safeguard workers’ rights and provide equitable treatment and working conditions.
• Language and Education: Although English is widely spoken in Iceland, Icelandic is the official language, and there are chances for both language study and personal growth.
• Unparalleled Cultural Experience: Working in Iceland gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the country’s rich customs and culture, from its thriving arts scene to its distinctive festivals and history.
• EU/EEA Agreement: If you are a citizen of one of these nations, obtaining a visa may be easier and present fewer obstacles to admission and residency.

Where can I find the skill shortage of jobs in Iceland?

You can look through many official government websites and portals, each with a different set of information and job postings, to identify skill shortage employment in Iceland:

• Vinnumálastofnun (Directorate of Labour): The Directorate of Labour, Vinnumálastofnun, offers information on job openings, work permits, and skill shortages in Iceland. Visit here.
• Starfsþjónusta ríkisins (State Human Resources Agency): The State Human Resources Agency, StarfsÍjónusta ríkisins, maintains a list of job vacancies in the public sector and government of Iceland. Visit here.
• Adecco Iceland: Adecco Iceland is a global employment firm that posts positions in Iceland across a range of industries. Visit here.
• Heilbrigðisráð Íslands (Icelandic Nurses’ Association): The Icelandic Nurses’ Association (Heilbrigðisráð Íslands) offers career guidance and job opportunities for nurses. Visit here.
• Work in Iceland: A government website that offers information about living and work permits in Iceland, targeting country-attuned professionals. Visit here.
• EU Job Mobility Portal: Iceland is included in the list of job opportunities in all EU member states on the EU Job Mobility Portal. Visit here

Is there any job seeker visa available in Iceland?

As of now, Iceland does not grant traditional work visas. This indicates that people cannot enter the nation with the express purpose of seeking work unless they have a particular type of visa. Rather, to work in Iceland, one must usually first obtain a job offer before applying for a work permit or a residency permit. Alternative possibilities, like the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa, are available to non-EU/EEA/EFTA citizens; however, they are intended more for remote workers who can prove a steady income from outside Iceland than for job searching within the country.

How to Apply for Iceland Work Visa Process:

The employer and the applicant must cooperate to submit an Iceland work visa application. Usually, the company starts the application process by sending documents, along with the job description and the reasons for recruiting a foreign worker, to the Directorate of Labour.

In addition, they pay the application fees and obtain the required paperwork from the applicant. The applicant’s responsibilities include submitting the needed paperwork, showing up for any mandatory appointments or interviews, and contributing to healthcare after being granted a work permit. This cooperative strategy guarantees that both sides contribute to the work permit’s effective processing.

Iceland Work Permit Application Cost:

• Visa Fees: €80–€90.
• Processing Fees: Approx. €30–€50.
• Travel Insurance: approx. €50–€100.
• Living expenses proof: Around €29 per day plus €145 per entry.

Applying for a visa to Iceland might cost anywhere from €200 to €500 total, depending on the kind of visa and length of stay.

List of documents required to apply for Iceland Work Visa Process:

• an application that is filled out, signed by both you and your employer, and has the employment terms confirmed by an Icelandic trade union.
• A work contract that outlines your position, responsibilities, and pension payments by industry norms.
• Certified copies of diplomas in English or Icelandic.
• Evidence of a long career, if any; a university degree is usually accompanied by seven years of experience.
• Evidence that your employer tried to hire people locally, within the Faroe Islands, EEA, or EFTA.
• Employer’s affirmation that, under certain conditions, return travel is covered.

Frequently Asked Questions: