Iceland Immigration Services

Newland Chase offers full support with all aspects of corporate immigration to Iceland. Please find an overview of the typical corporate immigration processes below. Every situation is unique, so please do get in touch, either through your usual Newland Chase contact or using the details on the right hand side of the page. Our immigration experts will be glad to discuss your needs in greater detail.

Immigration Summary

The Residence Permit requiring expert knowledge is issued depending on the demand for qualified professionals in specialised areas. Application must be made to the Directorate of Labour for a work permit, and a residence permit approved by the Directorate of Immigration, before entry to Iceland. The permit may be issued for up to two years at a time, is renewable, and can be used as the basis for a permanent residence permit.

The Residence Permit based on a shortage of workers is issued for up to one year at a time and is renewable, but cannot be used as the basis for permanent residency. The employer must provide Information about their attempts to hire an employee who already has access to the Icelandic labour market before searching for personnel outside of the EEA.

A Residence Permit for specialised employees based on a service contract is issued for up to six months and is renewable, but cannot be used as the basis for permanent residency.

Some Temporary Assignments for up to 90 days for installation, testing, supervision and repair of equipment by the vendor under a service contract can be undertaken without a work permit.

Nordic citizens do not need to apply for work or residence permits in order to live or work in Iceland.

EU/EEA/EFTA nationals may stay or work in Iceland without a special permit for up to 90 days. However, if the stay will be for longer than 90 days (or 180 days if he/she is actively seeking employment), he/she must register legal domicile at the Icelandic National Registry (Þjóðskrá)/Registers Iceland.