Iceland Work VISA: Greetings from Iceland, the country of fire and ice, where breathtaking scenery meets a wealth of employment options! You need look no farther if you’re a seasoned professional considering a career change to Europe. In 2024, Iceland stands out as one of the finest places in Europe to find employment, particularly in industries where there is a scarcity of skilled workers. What improves it even further? The many, simple work visa choices that will make the shift easier than you could have ever thought.
Let’s get real now. Europe is full with nations with excellent employment markets and standard of living. Consider Sweden with its easy route to permanent residency (PR) and naturalization, the Netherlands with its efficient visa application procedure and tech-driven workforce, or Germany with its remarkable salary and strong economy. However, Iceland offers something genuinely exceptional with its well-paying occupations, quick immigration and work visa procedure, high standard of living, and simple route to permanent residence.
Top 3 Reasons to Immigrate to Iceland in 2024 on Work VISA
1# Simplified Work Visa Options: Iceland offers a range of visa options designed to cater to different professional needs. From the Residence Permit for Work, which caters to those with a secured job offer, to the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, Iceland makes it relatively easy to get your foot in the door.
2# High Quality of Life: While many European countries boast an excellent quality of life, Iceland takes it up a notch with its pristine environment, low crime rates, and strong community values. Imagine finishing your workday and heading out to witness the Northern Lights or taking a dip in a geothermal pool!
3# Skill Shortage Opportunities: The country has an ongoing demand for professionals in healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and tourism. If you possess skills in these areas, Iceland offers a golden ticket to fulfilling and well-compensated employment.
So therefore, Iceland is the best country to move to on a work visa, offering easier access and streamlined processes compared to Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. Enjoy similar job opportunities with a high quality of life in a stunning environment.
Types of Work Visas in Iceland in 2024
Lets take a look at your options to get your hands on Icelandic employment related visas in 2024:
1# Iceland’s Residence Permit for Work
This is the primary permit for individuals who have secured a job offer in Iceland. It allows you to live and work in the country for a specified period.
Eligibility Requirements:
- A valid job offer from an Icelandic employer
- Proof of qualifications and experience for the job
- Fulfillment of any specific requirements for your profession
2# Temporary Work Permit
Granted for shorter-term employment in specific fields, such as jobs requiring special skills, labor shortages, athletes, or specialized employees under service contracts.
3# Long-term Remote Work Visa (Digital Nomad Visa):
Introduced in 2020, this visa allows individuals who work remotely for companies outside Iceland to live and work in the country for up to six months.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be employed by a company outside Iceland
- Minimum monthly income of ISK 1,000,000 (approximately USD 7,300)
- Proof of health insurance and accommodation in Iceland
4# Job Seeker Visa
While Iceland does not have a specific job seeker visa, individuals can visit on a tourist visa and search for jobs. If a job offer is secured, they can apply for a residence permit for work from within Iceland.
5# Business Visa
Designed for individuals looking to conduct business activities in Iceland. This visa requires a detailed business plan and proof of sufficient funds to support the business and the applicant’s stay in Iceland.
General Eligibility Requirements for Iceland’s Work Visas
While specific requirements vary by visa type, general eligibility criteria include:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay in Iceland.
- Job Offer: A valid job offer from an Icelandic employer (except for the Digital Nomad Visa).
- Qualifications and Experience: Proof of relevant qualifications and experience.
- Clean Criminal Record: Certificate from the applicant’s home country and any other country where they have lived for more than six months.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for the entire duration of stay.
Where to find Work VISA Jobs in Iceland?
Finding job opportunities in Iceland can be streamlined by using various resources:
- Vinnumálastofnun (Directorate of Labour): https://www.vinnumalastofnun.is/en/employer/recruitment-services
- Starfsþjónusta ríkisins (State Human Resources Agency): http://www.hr.ri.gov/
- Adecco Iceland: https://www.adecco.com/find-a-job
- Heilbrigðisráð Íslands (Icelandic Nurses’ Association): https://icn.ch/membership/our-members/icelandic-nurses-association-ina
- Work in Iceland: https://www.government.is/diplomatic-missions/embassy-of-iceland-in-ottawa/work-and-live-in-iceland/
Top Recruitment Agencies in Iceland in 2024
Engaging with recruitment agencies can significantly enhance your job search. Here are some top agencies in Iceland:
- Hagvangur: Specializes in executive search, management assessment, and career counseling across various industries.
- Vinna.is: The largest online job board in Iceland, featuring a wide range of vacancies across different sectors.
- Kollegi: Focuses on connecting skilled professionals with interdisciplinary companies and institutions in Iceland.
- Storf: Specializes in recruitment for the technology and innovation sectors.
- HH Ráðgjöf: Provides comprehensive services, including recruitment, selection, assessment, and career counseling.
List of Skill Shortage Professions in Iceland (June 2024 Update)
Certain sectors in Iceland consistently experience labor shortages, making it easier for foreign workers to secure employment as per this and key areas include:
- Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals.
- Engineering: Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers.
- Information Technology: Software developers, IT specialists, and data analysts.
- Construction: Skilled tradespeople, project managers, and site engineers.
- Tourism: Hospitality staff, tour guides, and customer service representatives.
How to Apply for a Work Permit in Iceland?
The process involves several steps, typically initiated by the employer:
- Employer Submission: The employer submits the application to the Directorate of Labour, including job details and justification for hiring a foreign worker.
- Document Collection: The employer collects necessary documents from the applicant, such as a signed employment contract and proof of qualifications.
- Application Fees: The employer pays the application fees, while the applicant may need to cover additional costs such as travel insurance and living expenses proof.
- Approval and Healthcare Contributions: Upon approval, the applicant must pay healthcare contributions and may need to attend an interview.
Iceland Work Permit Application Costs
- 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
Iceland offers a variety of work visas tailored to different employment needs, making it an attractive destination for skilled workers. By understanding the visa options, eligibility criteria, and where to find job opportunities, you can take the first steps toward building a career in this unique and beautiful country. Connect with top recruitment agencies and explore sectors with skill shortages to maximize your chances of securing a job and obtaining a work visa in Iceland.
