Immigrating to Iceland

Immigrating to Iceland
There is a general rule in Iceland that states that foreign nationals should get residence permits if they intend to stay in the country for more than three months. If you are to engage in employment in the country, then you must secure a work permit before your arrival there. In Iceland, you can only become a citizen if you have been domiciled in the country for at least seven years.

If you are working in Iceland, and you wish to stay there for a longer of time, you should apply to get a residence permit. Usually, if your stay in the country is more than 3 months, then a residence permit is required as per general ruling. However, you do not need to get one if you come from a Nordic country or if you are married to Icelandic nationals and have lived in the country for at least two years. The Immigration Service of Iceland is the department responsible for issuing residence permits and application forms are also available there.

When entering Iceland, you will need a valid passport and a visa may also be required. If you are a foreign national who has entered the country for employment purposes, then you must have a work permit before you accept a job. This is also the same if you intend to operate your own business in the country. These work permits must be secured before you depart for Iceland. However, there are chances that you will not be granted work permit, unless you have already secured a residence permit beforehand.