Iceland Digital Nomad Visa: Discover the comprehensive guide to Iceland’s Remote Work Visa for Digital Nomads, including eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, and tips for remote workers looking to experience Iceland’s beauty and culture.
Welcome to the ultimate guide on Iceland’s Digital Nomad Visa—your ticket to working remotely in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. This guide will cover everything you need to know about securing a digital nomad visa to work from Iceland, including detailed requirements, step-by-step application procedures, and answers to frequently asked questions.
As of December 2023, Iceland holds the 36th spot on the VisaGuide.World Digital Nomad Index, a ranking of the best destinations for digital nomads, scoring 2.18.
The index evaluates countries based on factors like cost of living, internet speed, safety, and quality of life, making it a trusted resource for remote workers worldwide.
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Table of Contents
Can I Work Remotely in Iceland?
Absolutely! Iceland is not only open to remote workers but actively encourages them. The Icelandic remote work digital nomad visa, introduced in October 2020, has since become a popular option for expats and digital nomads looking to start a new chapter in a land of stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and endless adventure.
Imagine starting your day with views of volcanic mountains or relaxing in hot springs after a productive day of work—it’s all possible in Iceland!
What Is the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa?
The Iceland Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the long-term remote work visa, is designed to allow non-EU/EEA/EFTA citizens to live and work in Iceland for up to six months.
This visa program was a strategic move for Iceland to attract remote workers and boost its economy during the pandemic. Unlike a tourist visa, this long-term remote work visa enables you to work for a foreign employer based outside of Iceland or manage your own business remotely.
However, it’s important to note that this visa does not permit employment with Icelandic companies or businesses. If you want to work for an Icelandic employer, you must apply for a standard Iceland work visa or an EU Blue Card.
Eligibility Criteria for the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa
To qualify for Iceland’s remote working visa, you need to meet several specific requirements:
- Non-EU/EEA/EFTA Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a country outside the European Union, European Economic Area, or the European Free Trade Association.
- Visa-Free Travel Agreement with Iceland: Your home country must have a visa-free travel agreement with Iceland.
- No Previous Long-Term Iceland Visa: You should not have been granted another Icelandic long-term visa within the last 12 months.
- Remote Work Purpose: You must prove that the purpose of your stay in Iceland is to work remotely, not to settle permanently.
- Temporary Stay Confirmation: You need to demonstrate that your stay in Iceland will be temporary.
- Proof of Sufficient Income: Your monthly income must be at least ISK 1,000,000 (approximately $7,700). If a spouse or partner is accompanying you, the income requirement increases to ISK 1,300,000 (around $10,000).
Benefits of the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa
If you’re not yet convinced to move to Iceland, consider the unique benefits you’ll enjoy with a long-term remote work visa:
- Work Comfortably from Anywhere: Forget about daily commutes and enjoy the freedom of working from the comfort of your own home—or from anywhere in Iceland! With a digital nomad visa, you can set up your office in a cozy Reykjavik cafe or amidst Iceland’s iconic landscapes.
- Set Your Own Hours: You have the flexibility to create your own work schedule. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, the choice is yours.
- Experience a Unique Work Environment: With a stable internet connection, you can work from any location in Iceland, whether it’s by a glacier, next to a waterfall, or while enjoying a warm cup of coffee in a quaint local cafe.
Iceland Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
To apply for the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa, you will need to gather several important documents. These include:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Iceland. You will need to provide a copy of your passport along with your application.
- Remote Work Visa Application Form: The application form can be downloaded from the official Icelandic government website. Make sure to fill it out electronically. If you’re applying with a spouse or partner, they will need a separate application form.
- Proof of Visa Payment: You must provide a receipt showing that you have paid the required visa fee of ISK 12,200 (approximately $94).
- Passport-Sized Photo: A recent photo (not older than six months) that meets the Schengen visa photo requirements.
- Health Insurance for Digital Nomads: Proof of medical insurance that covers the duration and geographical area of your stay.
- Proof of Employment or Self-Employment: A letter from your foreign employer confirming that you will be working remotely, or documents proving that you run a self-employed business.
- Proof of Stable Income: A bank statement or other document confirming a monthly income of around €7,000 (or ISK 1,000,000).
- Clean Criminal Record Certificate: Obtainable from your local police authority or government office.
If you are applying for a dependent, such as a spouse or partner, you will also need to provide:
- Marriage Certificate.
- Proof of Cohabitation for At Least One Year.
- Additional Payment: Approximately €2,000 (or ISK 300,000).
How to Apply for the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for an Icelandic remote worker visa:
- Pay the Iceland Remote Work Visa Fee: Start by making the required visa fee payment through a bank transfer. You can find the banking details on the Directorate of Immigration’s website. Make sure to keep the payment receipt as you will need to submit it with your application.
- Submit Your Documents and Await Approval: Gather all the necessary documents and submit them by post to the Directorate of Immigration in Kópavogur, Iceland. If you are already in Iceland at the time of your application, you can drop off the documents in person at the Directorate of Immigration’s lobby. The processing time typically takes three to four weeks.
- Arrive in Iceland and Get Your Visa Issued: Your visa is not issued until you enter Iceland. Upon arrival, you must contact the Iceland Directorate of Immigration to finalize your visa issuance. The validity of the visa will start from the date it is issued.
How Much Does an Iceland Remote Work Visa Cost?
The fee for the Icelandic remote work visa is ISK 12,200 (approximately $94). If you are applying for dependents, such as your spouse or children, you will need to pay a separate fee for each additional applicant.
How Long Is the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa Valid For?
The duration of the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa varies based on your situation:
- If you apply from your home country and do not enter Iceland until the visa decision is made, the visa will be valid for approximately 180 days.
- If you enter another Schengen country before the visa decision, the validity will be 180 days minus the days spent in the other Schengen area.
- If you apply while you are in a Schengen country, the visa is valid for around 90 days.
Can I Extend My Stay in Iceland as a Digital Nomad?
Unfortunately, the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa cannot be extended. However, you are eligible to re-apply for the visa after a period of twelve months.
Why Should I Live In Iceland?
There are countless reasons why living in Iceland is an incredible experience for digital nomads. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider:
- Blazing Fast and Reliable Wifi: Despite Iceland’s chilly climate, the country boasts some of the fastest and most stable internet connections in the world, which is a significant advantage for remote workers.
- Witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Iceland is one of the best places on Earth to see the Aurora Borealis, a mesmerizing natural light display visible from September to March—a sight you will cherish forever.
- Warm and Welcoming Locals: Icelanders are known for being some of the happiest people in the world. Their open-mindedness and kindness make visitors feel instantly welcome, with no discrimination.
- Safety First: Iceland has consistently been ranked as one of the safest countries in the world from 2008 to 2020, with extremely low crime rates, making it an ideal place to live and work peacefully.
Iceland offers an unparalleled opportunity for digital nomads to explore a unique blend of natural beauty, safety, and welcoming culture. With the Iceland Digital Nomad Visa, remote workers can truly enjoy a life of adventure, productivity, and tranquility.