How can Indians get a work visa for Iceland? Requirements and process

Looking for a job in Iceland as a Indian citizen? To work legally, you must apply for a work visa, along with a work and residence permit. Iceland offers many employment opportunities, but non-EU/EEA nationals like Indians must comply with strict immigration rules and submit the required paperwork.

What types of work visas are available in Iceland for Indian citizens?

If you're a citizen from India planning to move to Iceland for work, there are several work visa options based on your employment type:

1. Qualified professionals work visa

• Designed for individuals with specialized skills, higher education qualifications, or professional expertise.
• Suitable for sectors such as healthcare, engineering, IT, and finance.

2. General work visa

• For workers in various industries such as construction, fishing, manufacturing, and agriculture.
• Issued when no qualified EU/EEA candidates are available for the position.

3. Seasonal work visa

• Suitable for temporary work during peak seasons, especially in agriculture and tourism sectors.
• Typically valid for up to 6 months with the possibility of renewal.

How to qualify for an Iceland work visa as a Indian citizen

To successfully apply for an Icelandic work visa, Indian citizens must meet the following eligibility criteria:

- You must be at least 18 years old.

- Secure a confirmed job offer from an Icelandic employer.

- Hold relevant professional qualifications or substantial work experience.

- Your employer must provide proof that no EU/EEA candidate could fill the position.

- Show evidence of sufficient financial funds to support yourself in Iceland.

​​Iceland work visa duration and family reunification process

An Iceland work visa is usually issued for up to one year, with the possibility of extension based on ongoing employment. Over time, visa holders may apply for permanent residency, provided they meet all residency criteria and legal requirements.

Bringing your family to Iceland

Family members of work visa holders can join them by applying for a family reunification residence permit, which allows them to reside in Iceland legally. The application process requires:

• Official proof of relationship (such as marriage or birth certificates)
• Financial statements proving the ability to support dependents
• Health insurance for all family members

Iceland work visa process: all you need to know

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to get a work visa for Iceland:

1. Obtain a job offer. Before applying, you must secure a formal job offer from an Icelandic employer. They must demonstrate that no EU/EEA candidates were available for the position.

2. Apply for a residence permit. Once employed, apply for a residence permit via the Directorate of Immigration or an Icelandic diplomatic office.

You'll need the following:

• A valid passport and application form
• A job contract outlining salary and role details
• Documents proving your qualifications
• Health insurance for your stay
• Proof of accommodation
• A criminal record certificate issued within the last six months

3. Submitting your application. The application can be submitted online by you or your employer, or in person at an embassy.

4. Paying the visa fee. Visa fees range from ISK 15,000 to ISK 30,000, depending on nationality and visa type.

5. Processing timeline. Expect the process to take around 90 days, though extra time may be needed for document verification.

6. Receiving your permits. Once your application is approved, you will receive a work and residence permit.

7. Registering after arrival. Once in Iceland, be sure to:

• Register with Registers Iceland to obtain your ID number (Kennitala)
• Notify authorities of your address and job status

Step-by-step guide to Iceland work visa documents

To apply for a work visa in Iceland, applicants must prepare and submit the following documentation:

• A completed application form (downloadable from the Directorate of Immigration website).
• A passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended departure date.
• Two recent passport-sized photos meeting Icelandic visa photo standards.
• An official employment contract with details of the position, salary, and duties.
• Proof of educational qualifications and work experience (certificates, diplomas, reference letters).
• Comprehensive travel medical insurance covering the full duration of the stay.
• Evidence of accommodation arrangements in Iceland.
• Financial proof showing funds of at least USD 33.97 per day and an entry fee of USD 169.81.
• A police clearance certificate issued within the past six months.
• A confirmed flight itinerary (either a round-trip ticket or a travel plan).
• A receipt confirming the visa fee payment.
• Additional documents (marriage or birth certificates if applying with dependents).

Where to apply for an Icelandic work visa – key information

When applying for an Iceland work visa, you can submit your application through:

1) The Directorate of Immigration in Iceland, responsible for visa processing.

2) The nearest Icelandic embassy or consulate in your home country for convenient processing.

Processing time: The standard timeframe is approximately 90 days, but it may take longer if further details or documents are required.

Iceland work permit for Indian citizens

If you are a Indian citizen planning to work in Iceland, obtaining a work permit is a crucial step in the employment process. Iceland requires non-EEA/EFTA nationals to secure a work permit before starting any employment. The process involves your prospective employer applying on your behalf, along with securing a residence permit to legally stay in the country.

Types of Iceland work permits for Indians

Iceland offers different types of work permits depending on the nature of employment and the applicant's qualifications. The most common categories include:

1. Qualified professionals work permit

• For individuals with specialized skills or higher education in sectors facing labor shortages, such as healthcare, IT, and engineering.
• Requires relevant educational qualifications and work experience.

2. General work permit

• For workers in industries such as construction, fishing, agriculture, and hospitality, where labor shortages exist.
• Issued only if no qualified EU/EEA national is available for the position.

3. Temporary/seasonal work permit

• Granted for jobs with seasonal demand, such as in tourism and agriculture sectors.
• Typically issued for a maximum of 6 months, with a possibility for renewal.

Iceland work permit application process for Indians

The application for an Icelandic work permit must be submitted by the prospective employer, not the employee. The process involves the following steps:

Step 1: Job Offer and Employer Responsibilities

• The employer must provide a formal job offer, specifying the job position, salary, and employment conditions.
• The employer must demonstrate that efforts were made to recruit within the EEA/EFTA before offering the job to a non-EEA national.

Step 2: Submission to the Directorate of Immigration

The employer submits the completed application and required documents to the Directorate of Immigration, which assesses whether the foreign national meets residency conditions.

Step 3: Approval from Directorate of Labor

Once the residence permit is approved, the application is forwarded to the Directorate of Labor, which processes and grants the work permit if all conditions are met.

Step 4: Notification and Arrival in Iceland

• Once approved, the applicant is notified and may travel to Iceland to begin work.
• Upon arrival, they must register with Registers Iceland and obtain an Icelandic ID number (Kennitala).

Required documents for an Iceland work permit application

To apply for a work permit in Iceland, the following documents must be submitted by the employer:

• Completed work permit application form (provided by the Directorate of Immigration).
• Valid passport (must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended stay).
• Two recent passport-sized photographs (meeting Icelandic visa requirements).
• Employment contract, specifying job position, salary, and terms of employment.
• Proof of professional qualifications (e.g., degrees, diplomas, certificates).
• Criminal record certificate, issued within the last 6 months.
• Medical travel insurance, covering the entire duration of stay.
• Proof of accommodation, such as rental agreements or employer-provided housing.
• Financial proof, ensuring the applicant can sustain themselves during their stay.
• Receipt of application fee payment (ISK 15,000–30,000, depending on permit type).

Processing time for Iceland work permits

The standard processing time for a work permit application is up to 90 days, depending on the complexity of the case and the completeness of the submitted documentation. Delays can occur if additional documents are requested.

Work permit validity and renewal

• Work permits in Iceland are usually issued for up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal based on continued employment.
• The renewal application must be submitted at least 4 weeks before the permit expires.
• After continuous employment in Iceland, individuals may be eligible for a long-term residence permit.

Important considerations for work permit holders

1. A work permit does not grant automatic residency rights. A separate residence permit must be obtained.

2. Employment Restrictions: work permits are usually tied to a specific employer and job position. Changing employers requires a new application.

3. Compliance with Icelandic labor laws: foreign workers are protected by Icelandic labor laws, including wage agreements and work conditions.

Where to apply for an Iceland work permit?

The Iceland work permit application is processed through the following authorities:

1. Directorate of Immigration

Address: Dalvegi 18, 201 Kópvogur

Phone: (+354) 444-0900

Website: www.utl.is

2. Directorate of Labor

Address: Kringlunni 1, 150 Reykjavík

Phone: (+354) 515-4800

Website: www.vinnumalastofnun.is

3. Registers Iceland (for residence registration)

Address: Borgartúni 21, 105 Reykjavík

Phone: (+354) 515 5300

Website: www.skra.is

FAQs about Iceland work permits

1. Can I apply for a work permit myself?

No, only the prospective employer in Iceland can apply on your behalf.

2. Do I need a work permit if I am from an EEA/EFTA country?

No, EEA/EFTA nationals do not require a work permit but must register their stay.

3. What happens if my work permit application is denied?

If your application is denied, you can reapply after addressing the reasons for rejection or seek legal advice for appeal procedures.

4. Can I bring my family with a work permit?

Yes, family members can apply for a family reunification residence permit to join you in Iceland.

Icelandic labor law is important for regulating labor relations in the country. Here are the main aspects of Icelandic labor law:

1. Labor rights: All employees are entitled to fair working conditions, safety and hygiene in the workplace, and protection from discrimination. There is also a right to rest, vacation and paid holidays.
2. Working hours: The law sets a maximum working time, which is usually 40 hours per week. There are also restrictions on employees' working hours at night.
3. Vacations: Employees are entitled to paid annual vacations. The number of vacation days usually depends on the length of the employee's employment.
4. Employee protection: The legislation provides for measures to protect employees from any form of discrimination, violence, harm or abuse in the workplace

Entrepreneurship in Iceland for Indians / Business visa

Types of business entities available for company registration in Iceland 

Before starting the process of company registration in Iceland, it is important to understand the different types of business structures available.

The business structure you choose will impact operations, taxes, and the extent of your personal liability. Selecting the right structure ensures a balance between legal protection and business benefits.

Sole proprietorship or private company

A self-employed business is run by an individual. The requirements are relatively simple, and the independence of the owner is a significant advantage. However, the owner's liability is direct and unlimited, making this type of business less suitable for large-scale ventures.

Private limited company (Einkahlutafélög (ehf.))

A private limited company is one of the most common legal forms for foreign investors, including Indians, looking to establish a business in Iceland.

Key features:

• Limited liability protection for directors and shareholders.
• Requires at least one shareholder and one director (must be domiciled in Iceland, the EEA, or an OECD country).
• A registered office and agent are mandatory.

Minimum share capital: ISK 500,000.

When registering a private limited company, essential documents include:

• Articles of Association
• VAT certificate
• Board resolution and company establishment notice

Public limited company (Hlutafélög)

Public limited companies are typically used by larger businesses seeking capital from multiple investors. They are governed by stricter regulations compared to private limited companies.

Minimum share capital: ISK 4,000,000.

Requirements: a board of directors with at least three members, one of whom must be an Icelandic, EEA, or OECD resident.

Partnership companies (Sameignarfélög)

To establish a partnership company, at least two partners are required. Liability is direct and unlimited, meaning partners are personally responsible for the company's debts.

Advantages:

• Low start-up costs.
• Simplicity in liquidation and withdrawal of funds.
• Favorable tax conditions for profit distribution.

Limited Partnership

A hybrid between a partnership and a private limited company, requiring at least one partner with unlimited liability. Other partners may have limited liability.

Branch Office

A branch office allows foreign companies to operate in Iceland under the same conditions as local businesses. A local representative and office registration are required.

How to register a company in Iceland for Indian citizens

To legally establish a business in Iceland, follow these steps:

1. Choosing the optimal business structure

2. Fulfilling registration requirements

- One director/shareholder must be a local resident.

- Registered office address in Iceland.

3. Reserving a company name in the Icelandic Business Register.

4. Preparing corporate documents, such as articles of association and business plans.

5. Submitting documents to the Icelandic Companies Registry.

6. Opening a corporate bank account for depositing share capital.

7. Applying for a business license (if required for specific industries).

8. Registering for tax and VAT purposes.

Annual reporting and tax requirements for Indians

Corporate Income Tax: 20% on annual profits.

VAT: 24% (not applicable to export goods).

Social Security Contributions: 7.6% of employee wages.

Personal Income Tax: Ranges from 37% to 46%.

Iceland business visa for Indians

An Icelandic business visa for Indians is a short-term Schengen visa, allowing individuals to enter Iceland and engage in business-related activities for up to 90 days within a six-month period.

Documents required for an Iceland business visa

• Completed visa application form.
• Two passport-size photos.
• Valid passport (at least two blank pages, valid for three months after departure).
• Copy of passport pages.
• Full travel itinerary (flight tickets, accommodation details).
• Medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
• Proof of employment status (employment contract, bank statements).
• Proof of financial means (€29 per day for expenses).
• Invitation letter from an Icelandic company detailing the purpose of the visit.

How much does an Iceland business visa cost?

The standard fee for a business visa to Iceland is €90.

How long can Indians stay in Iceland with a business visa?

The maximum period of stay is 90 days within a six-month period, in compliance with Schengen visa regulations.

How to apply for a multiple-entry business visa for Iceland

If you frequently travel for business, you can apply for a multiple-entry visa, allowing you to enter Iceland multiple times without reapplying.

To qualify, you must provide proof of:

- Previous business trips to Iceland or Schengen countries.

- Invitations to future events and business meetings.

- Hotel and flight reservations for planned visits.