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Work Visa – Iceland

Hassle-free visa processing for your travel needs.

Overview

The Iceland Work Permit Visa allows non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals to legally work in Iceland under specific conditions. Work permits are temporary, typically issued for two years, with the possibility of renewal.

  • The employer applies for the work permit on behalf of the employee.
  • The employee cannot begin work until the permit is granted.
  • Work permits are issued to both the individual and the employer, meaning:
    • The employee can only work for the employer listed on the permit.
    • The permit is specific to the role for which the application was made.

Work permits apply to both short-term and long-term employment, though exceptions exist based on job roles and Icelandic labour market conditions.

Types of Work Permits in Iceland

Iceland offers different categories of work permits, each with specific requirements:

  • Professional Work Permit – For jobs requiring specialized expertise.
  • Labour Shortage Work Permit – For roles with a temporary skills shortage.
  • Athlete Work Permit – For professional athletes and trainers.
  • Special Circumstances Work Permit – For humanitarian or exceptional cases.
  • Family Reunification Work Permit – For spouses or family members of work permit holders.
  • Student Work Permit – For students permitted to work while studying.
  • Academic and Research Work Permit – For university staff, researchers, and teachers.

Each category has specific eligibility criteria and documentary requirements, as outlined below.

Eligibility

To qualify for an Icelandic Work Permit, applicants must meet the following conditions:

  • valid job offer from an employer registered in Iceland.
  • Compliance with minimum salary and working conditions in accordance with Icelandic labour laws.
  • The employer must demonstrate efforts to hire within Iceland, the EEA, or EFTA before recruiting outside these areas (if applicable).
  • For specialist roles, the applicant must possess recognized qualifications or demonstrable professional experience.
  • Certain work permits require approval from trade unions before submission.

Processing Time

  • Processing times depend on the type of work permit and the employer’s compliance with regulations.
  • Employers may be required to advertise the job within Iceland and the EEA before seeking a non-EEA candidate, which can extend the timeline.
  • Incomplete applications will be delayed or rejected.

Your Visa, Our Priority – With our express appointment scheduling and expert guidance, your visa process is handled with ease.

Documents Required

Application Forms

  • Completed work permit application (signed by both employer and employee).
  • Checklist for work permit applications (if required).

Employment Contract

legally binding contract between the employer and the applicant, including:

  • Job title and description.
  • Duration of employment.
  • Salary (must comply with Icelandic collective agreements).
  • Pension contributions (if applicable).
  • Signature of both parties.

Proof of Qualification and Experience

  • Certified copy of diploma/degree (translated into Icelandic or English).
  • Proof of professional experience (official letters from previous employers).
  • Relevant licenses or certifications, if the job requires specific credentials.

Proof of Labour Market Assessment (If Required)

  • Evidence that the employer has attempted to hire locally before seeking non-EEA workers.
  • Confirmation from the Directorate of Labour.

Additional Supporting Documents

  • Valid passport copy of the applicant.
  • Proof of residence in Iceland (if applying from within the country).
  • Union statement (for sectors where trade union approval is required).
  • Proof of health insurance coverage.

Special Requirements (For Specific Work Permit Types)

Professional Work Permit

  • The employer must prove that no suitable EEA or Icelandic candidates are available.
  • The applicant must have a specialist qualification or professional experience.
  • Typically valid for up to four years.

Labour Shortage Work Permit

  • Issued for short-term roles where Iceland lacks skilled workers.
  • The employer must justify hiring a non-EEA national.
  • Initially valid for one year, extendable up to two years.

Athlete Work Permit

  • Issued to professional athletes and trainers with a contract from an Icelandic sports club.
  • Typically valid for one season/year, extendable up to two years.
  • The employer must cover return travel expenses if required.

Special Circumstances Work Permit

  • Granted to individuals holding humanitarian, family-based, or special residence permits.
  • Valid for the same duration as the residence permit.
  • Employer must justify why hiring this individual is critical.

Family Reunification Work Permit

  • Available to spouses and dependents of work permit holders.
  • Requires proof of family relationship and residence permit status.
  • Employment contract must meet legal wage requirements.

Student Work Permit

  • Allows students to work up to 60% of full-time hours while studying.
  • Requires proof of enrolment in a recognised Icelandic academic institution.
  • Internships and vocational training must be paid roles.

Academic & Research Work Permit

  • Requires an employment contract with a university or research institution.
  • Proof of academic qualifications (degree or PhD certification).
  • Valid for up to six months, with renewal options.

Responsibilities of Applicants

  • Ensure all required documents are submitted with the application.
  • Incomplete applications may result in delays or rejection.
  • Employers must comply with Icelandic labour laws, including tax payments and fair employment conditions.
  • Work permits do not grant automatic residency rights—a separate residence permit may be required.

Photo Specifications

Applicants must submit one recent colour photograph (not older than 6 months) that meets the following requirements:

  • Background: Taken against a plain, light-coloured background (white or off-white) to ensure facial features are clearly distinguishable and contrast against the background.
  • Clarity & Focus: The photo must be of high quality, clear, and in sharp focus.
  • Full Face Visible:
    • The applicant must have a neutral expression (non-smiling).
    • No sunglasses, hats, caps, or head coverings, unless worn for religious or cultural reasons.
  • Printing Requirements:
    • Printed on standard photographic paper (camera print).
    • Must be glued to the visa application form (not stapled).
  • Compliance Check:
    • If the submitted photograph does not meet the above requirements, the application will be considered incomplete.
    • The applicant may be required to take new photographs at a photo booth in the visa application centre.

Ensure that your photo meets all specifications to avoid delays in your visa application.

Need Help? Contact Us!

+44 7700172142

sales@icelandvisa.co.uk

+44 2038832949

Visa Charges

Below is the fee structure for our visa services.

Standard Visa Processing Fees

Package Processing Time Fee Includes
Silver Package Appointments within 6 weeks £550 + visa charges Appointment, guidance, document pre-check, official visa form filling
Bronze Package Appointments within 4 weeks £750 + visa charges Appointment, guidance, document pre-check, official visa form filling
Gold Package Appointments within 2 weeks £1250 + visa charges Appointment, guidance, document pre-check, official visa form filling, priority submission

Visa service charges are separate from official visa fees charged by the consulate.

Visa Solutions, Designed for You – With our deep expertise, securing an appointment and navigating the process has never been easier.

Need Help? Contact Us!

+44 7700172142

sales@icelandvisa.co.uk

+44 2038832949

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