Greenland is one of the few regions in the world that combines autonomy, Arctic nature and strict migration rules. Find out if it's realistic to move to Greenland, what visas are needed, how immigration works, employment and life on the island is really like

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In early 2026, the popularity of the query “moving to Greenland” increased dramatically on Google. The reason is not only the romanticized Arctic and the desire to “escape civilization”, but also loud political statements in the USA about possible financial incentives for Greenlanders in case of support for separation from Denmark.

However, regardless of political speculation, Greenland is a real but difficult country to move to. Below we will understand who can move to Greenland, under what conditions and what challenges you will have to face.

Greenland’s immigration rules are complex: separate visas, work permits, special tax conditions.

A Visit World migration lawyer will help you assess your chances, prepare documents correctly and avoid rejection at the application stage.

Get professional advice before moving from qualified Visit World specialists.

Legal features: what is Greenland and who governs it?

To understand the migration rules, it is important to start with the status of the territory.

Greenland is the largest island in the world and an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.

Key legal points of the island of Greenland:

- Greenland is not a member of the European Union, although Denmark is a member of the EU;

- The territory is not part of the Schengen area;

- The island has its own parliament and extensive autonomy in internal matters;

- At the same time, immigration policy is controlled by Denmark, not the local government.

The population of Greenland is about 56-57 thousand people. Most residents live in coastal cities, primarily in the capital Nuuk, where the administration, education and jobs are concentrated.

Entry rules to Greenland

Despite autonomy, entry rules to Greenland are quite strict and often come as a surprise to foreigners.

Nordic citizens

Citizens of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland have the most privileges. They can:

1. Enter the island freely;

2. Live without restrictions;

3. Work without a visa or residence permit.

The only formality is to register your address after 6 months of residence.

EU and Schengen citizens

For short trips, the conditions are simpler, but with important nuances:

1. No visa required;

2. A valid passport and return ticket are required;

3. The maximum period of stay is up to 90 days.

Important! Even if you have a Schengen residence permit, it does not automatically give you the right to enter or live in Greenland.

Third-country nationals (USA, Canada, Australia, etc.)

For most foreigners, the rules are much stricter:

- A separate Danish visa with the word “Greenland” is required;

- Application is made through the diplomatic missions of Denmark;

- A valid EU visa or residence permit is not automatically valid.

This rule applies to both tourist and long-term trips.

Transit through Iceland

Even the travel route matters. When flying through Iceland, you must: have an entry permit for Iceland, a separate entry permit for Greenland.

The absence of one of the documents can disrupt the entire trip.

How to legally move to Greenland in 2026?

The most common way to move to Greenland is through employment.

Nordic nationals

They can work without general restrictions, but for certain professions, a municipal permit or confirmation of qualifications is required.

Citizens of other countries

For third-country nationals, moving and employment in Greenland is only possible if they have a work and residence permit. In some cases, a municipal permit may also be required, as well as a separate Danish visa with the Greenland mark.

The application for a permit is submitted to the Danish Immigration Service (nyidanmark.dk). The procedure is free of charge, and the employer can help with the preparation of documents. At the same time, the decision on the application is sent directly to the applicant.

The consideration of documents usually takes about three months. You can only start working in Greenland after receiving an official permit - employment without it is prohibited.

The work and residence permit is issued in the form of an official letter or a plastic card, which must be carried with you at all times. It is important to note that the permit:

- Is tied to a specific position and employer;

- Usually issued for a period of up to one year;

- Is not universal - in case of a change of job or company, you must apply for a new permit in advance.

Short-term work: stay of up to 3 months

In exceptional cases, third-country nationals may work in Greenland for up to three months without a work and residence permit. This is possible within the framework of the so-called “key competence rule”, which applies to specialists with a narrow specialization.

This rule applies, in particular, to persons who:

- Work as specialists in licensed mining projects;

- Install or maintain technical equipment, machines or IT systems;

- Are scientists, artists, lecturers or speakers;

- Are involved in film production as actors, cameramen or directors;

- Are on business trips as company representatives or sales agents;

- Are employed by a foreign employer who is temporarily working in Greenland.

If you fall under the “technical specialist rule”, a municipal permit and a work and residence permit are not required.

Occupations with additional control

The labor market in Greenland is small, so the state protects local residents. In order to hire a foreigner, the employer must prove that there are no suitable candidates among the local population.

These areas include:

- blue-collar professions;

- social workers;

- teachers;

- maritime professions;

- unskilled labor.

Life after moving: what awaits expats in Greenland?

Life in Greenland is significantly different from most European countries - and not only because of the climate.

Housing

The real estate market is very limited: you can buy real estate, but not land, and in addition - there are few offers, prices are high; the most common option is renting or cooperative housing.

Moving things

Moving is possible without paying duty, but with strict restrictions: alcohol, tobacco and perishable goods are prohibited, all cargo is transported through Denmark, usually through Aalborg.

Taxes

Tax obligations arise quickly: after 6 months of residence - full tax residency, you must apply for a tax card, when moving from Denmark - apply for exemption from Danish taxes.

VAT

One of the few financial advantages: there is no VAT in Greenland, you can get a VAT refund for new purchases made in Denmark before moving.

Social guarantees, medicine and education

After legal registration, foreigners gain access to basic social services: free medicine, social insurance depends on the employer, mandatory pension contributions, education is free - from school to university.

At the same time, there are almost no international schools, and student grants are mostly available to Danish citizens or residents.

Language, culture and daily life

Adaptation in Greenland is not only about documents, but also a cultural challenge: the official language is West Greenlandic, in addition, it is necessary to know Danish and English.

Strong influence of Inuit culture.

Cuisine is based on fish, seafood and meat.

Fruits and vegetables are expensive and mostly imported.

Transport and mobility

The island's infrastructure is unique: there are practically no intercity roads, travel is by airplanes, helicopters, boats, dog sleds, the main air hub is Nuuk, internal logistics depends entirely on the weather.

Climate: the romance of the Arctic without illusions

Life in Greenland requires endurance:

- even in summer, the temperature rarely exceeds +10°C;

- dry air and strong winds;

- polar day and polar night;

- incredible landscapes and the northern lights are a nice bonus for local residents.

Is it realistic to “just take and move” to Greenland?

The short answer is no.

The long answer is yes, but only if you have legal status, work or study, are willing to be isolated, and adapt to the climate and culture.

Greenland is not a backup plan, it is a choice for those who consciously accept a difficult but unique lifestyle.

The popularity of the query moving to Greenland is a combination of political noise and real curiosity about an alternative lifestyle.

However, Greenland is not for sale, does not give away money for moving, and does not simplify immigration. Instead, it offers: stability, security, nature, and a unique cultural experience – for those who are ready to play by the rules.

Planning to move to Greenland? Start with a consultation

Greenland is not Schengen and not “easy migration”. Even experienced expats face rejections due to the nuances of Danish legislation.

A migration lawyer will help you choose the right visa, check your documents and plan a legal move without risks.

Sign up for a consultation with a migration lawyer at the link!

Reminder! We have already talked about the TOP-10 destinations for living, working and studying. Find out which countries expats choose, and how to simplify moving with the help of migration specialists and health insurance.

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