Iceland Residence Permit: Types, Application Process, and Requirements

Learn about Iceland Residence Permit, the different types, the application process, required documents, and more in this comprehensive guide.

An Iceland residence permit allows non-citizens to live in Iceland for an extended period, typically over three months. This permit is crucial for individuals wishing to live, work, study, or reunite with family in Iceland. Understanding the types of residence permits, the application process, and the necessary documentation is essential for anyone considering moving to this Nordic country.

This article provides a detailed overview of Icelandic residence permits, covering who needs them, the types available, the application steps, required documents, and related costs.

What Is an Iceland Residence Permit?

An Iceland residence permit is a document that allows its holder to enter and stay in Iceland for more than three months. The Icelandic Directorate of Immigration grants these permits to applicants who meet specific criteria.

The permit enables its holders to enjoy many of the same benefits as Icelandic citizens, including the ability to work, although some residence permit types may require a separate work permit.

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Who Needs an Iceland Residence Permit?

Not all foreigners require a residence permit to live in Iceland. Citizens of certain countries enjoy the privilege of settling in Iceland without obtaining a residence permit. These countries include:

• EU Member States
• Iceland
• Liechtenstein
• Norway
• Switzerland

However, nationals of these countries must register with the Registration Office within three months of arrival in Iceland.

Types of Iceland Residence Permits

Choosing the right type of residence permit is crucial, as it determines the required documents and the activities one is permitted to engage in while in Iceland. The types of residence permits available are:

• Family Reunification: For spouses, cohabiting partners, children under 18, parents over 67, or parents of a child under 18.
• Work Permits: Including permits for work requiring expert knowledge, shortages of workers, athletes, and qualified professionals under collaboration and service contracts.
• Study/Education Permits: For university students, au pairs, volunteers, missionaries, and those with special ties or legitimate and special purposes.
• Remote Workers Residence Permit: For remote workers living in Iceland while working for foreign employers.
• Permanent Residence Permit: For those who wish to stay in Iceland indefinitely.

Required Documents for Iceland Residence Permits

Applicants must gather specific documents depending on the type of residence permit they are applying for. These documents are categorized into two main groups:

1. Basic Requirements: Common for all residence permit applications.
2. Detailed Requirements: Vary depending on the specific type of residence permit.

Basic Requirements for a Residence Permit

The basic documents required for any Iceland residence permit application include:

• Payment Receipt: Proof of fee payment for the residence permit.
• Application Form: Download, fill out, print, and sign the appropriate form.
• Passport Photo: A recent passport-sized photograph (35 mm x 45 mm).
• Photocopy of Passport: Copy all pages of your passport, ensuring it is valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
• Criminal Record Certificate: A certificate from the relevant authorities of the country where you have lived for the last five years, with apostille confirmation or double authentication.
• Health Insurance Certificate: A certificate from an Icelandic or authorized foreign insurance company, valid for six months from the registration date in Iceland.
• Proof of Financial Means: Proof of sufficient financial resources to support oneself and dependents during the stay.

Detailed Requirements for a Residence Permit

Specific documents must be submitted depending on the type of residence permit applied for:

• Family Reunification Permits: Marriage certificate, birth certificate, child custody documents, etc.
• Work Permits: Employment contract and application for the appropriate work permit.
• Study/Education Permits: University admission certificate or acceptance letter, and if applicable, a work permit application and employment agreement.
• Au Pair Permits: A written contract between the au pair and the host family.
• Volunteer Permits: Contract with a recognized NGO and a copy of the travel ticket from Iceland.
• Missionary Permits: Invitation confirmation to an unpaid position for a religious society.
• Special Ties Permits: Financial support proof and a report on social or family ties.
• Legitimate and Special Purpose Permits: Statement and documents confirming the need for the permit based on legitimate and special grounds.
• Permanent Residence Permits: Proof of financial support, tax-return forms, and a certificate for completing an Icelandic language course.

Application Fee and Cost

Applicants must pay a fee to process their Iceland residence permit applications. The costs are as follows:

• Residence permit: 15,000 ISK
• Residence permit renewal: 15,000 ISK
• Permanent residence permit: 15,000 ISK
• Temporary residence and work permit: 15,000 ISK
• Registration card for family members of EEA citizens who are not EEA or EFTA citizens: 15,000 ISK
• Accelerated procedure for a residence permit based on work: 45,000 ISK
• Reissuance of a residence card: 7,500 ISK

Application Processing Time for Iceland Residence Permits

The processing time for an Iceland residence permit application by the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration can take up to 180 days. If you are applying for a renewal, the process is shorter, taking up to 90 days.

Reasons for Refusal of Residence Permit Application

An Iceland residence permit application can be refused for several reasons, including:

• The applicant is not authorized to stay in Iceland.
• The applicant does not meet the requirements for a residence permit.

If an application is denied, the applicant has 15 days to appeal the decision. If the appeal is justified, the refusal may be overturned.

Can an Iceland Residence Permit Be Revoked?

Yes, a residence permit can be revoked under certain conditions, such as:

• Providing false or misleading information in the application.
• Failure to meet the conditions of the residence permit or permanent residence permit.

If the Directorate of Immigration revokes a residence permit, the individual must leave Iceland within a specified period.

Conclusion

Applying for an Iceland residence permit involves understanding the different types, gathering the necessary documents, and following the application process. It is crucial to choose the correct permit type to avoid delays or rejections. By meeting all the requirements set by the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration, you can ensure a smooth process for obtaining your Iceland residence permit.