Iceland work visa for Kenyans – how to apply in 2025

Wondering how to get a work visa for Iceland as a Kenyan citizen? Non-EU/EEA nationals, including Kenyans, must secure a work visa, a valid work permit, and a residence permit to be eligible for employment. Iceland’s immigration process can be complex, so it's important to understand the necessary requirements and documents before applying.

Iceland work visa types for Kenyan nationals

Depending on the type of job you’re planning to do in Iceland, you may need to apply for one of the following work visas:

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.

Who is eligible for an Iceland work visa? Requirements for Kenyans

To apply for an Iceland work visa as a Kenyan citizen, you need to satisfy the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
• Have an official job contract from an Icelandic employer.
• Hold the required qualifications or extensive professional experience.
• Your employer must demonstrate that no suitable candidate was found within the EU/EEA.
• Show proof of financial stability to cover your expenses during your stay.

Iceland work visa checklist: required documents

When applying for an Iceland work visa, you'll need to gather the following essential documents:

• Completed visa application form (downloadable from the Directorate of Immigration website).
• A valid passport with a minimum of 3 months' validity beyond your stay.
• Two passport-sized photos taken recently.
• A signed job contract outlining your job role, salary, and responsibilities.
• Proof of education and work experience (certificates, diplomas, letters).
• Comprehensive health insurance valid for the entire duration of your stay.
• Confirmation of accommodation in Iceland.
• Financial proof showing a minimum of USD 33.97 per day and a USD 169.81 entry fee.
• A police clearance certificate issued within the last six months.
• Travel details, such as a round-trip ticket or itinerary.
• Visa application fee payment receipt.
• Family-related documents (marriage or birth certificates, if applicable).

How to apply for an Iceland work visa – submission details

To apply for a work visa for Iceland, applicants should submit their documents to one of the following:

1. The Directorate of Immigration in Iceland, which oversees all visa applications.

2. The nearest Icelandic embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

Processing time: Applications are typically processed within 90 days, though delays may occur if further documentation is required.

Step-by-step process for obtaining an Icelandic work visa

To work in Iceland legally, follow these essential steps:

1. Get a job offer

An official job offer from an Icelandic employer is a must. The employer needs to confirm that no qualified EU/EEA worker could fill the role.

2. Apply for a residence permit

Submit your residence permit application through the Directorate of Immigration or an Icelandic embassy.

You'll need:

- A valid passport and filled-out application form

- Your employment contract

- Proof of education or work experience

- Health insurance valid in Iceland

- Confirmation of accommodation

- A recent criminal background check

3. Application submission

You or your employer can submit the application online or in person.

4. Pay the application fee

Fees range between ISK 15,000 and ISK 30,000, depending on the type of visa.

5. Processing time

Expect the process to take up to 90 days, though delays may occur.

6. Receive your permits

Once approved, you will be granted both work and residence permits.

7. Upon arrival in Iceland

• Register for an Icelandic ID number (Kennitala)
• Provide your address and employment information to the authorities

How long is an Iceland work visa valid, and can you bring family?

Work visa duration and extensions

In Iceland, work visas are initially granted for up to 12 months, with an option for renewal based on continuous employment. Over time, workers may become eligible for permanent residency if they fulfill the necessary conditions set by Icelandic immigration authorities.

Family reunification in Iceland

If you're moving to Iceland with a work visa, your spouse and children can apply for a family reunification permit, allowing them to stay with you. The application requires:

• Marriage or birth certificates as proof of relationship
• Financial evidence proving sufficient income to support family members
• Health insurance coverage for dependents

Iceland work permits for Kenyan nationals: what you need to know

For Kenyans looking to work in Iceland, a work permit is a key requirement. Iceland mandates that non-EEA/EFTA nationals secure this permit before starting any employment. Your future employer will handle the application on your behalf, and you'll need to arrange a residence permit to live legally in the country.

Types of Iceland work permits for citizens from Kenya

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.

Step-by-step Iceland work permit process for Kenyans

If you're a Kenyan citizen applying for a work permit in Iceland, your employer must handle the application process. The steps include:

Step 1: Job offer confirmation. The employer offers a formal contract outlining the position, salary, and employment terms.

They must confirm that no EEA/EFTA candidates were available for the role.

Step 2: Application submission. The employer submits the completed application to the Directorate of Immigration to verify residency criteria.

Step 3: Labor approval process. Once the residence permit is granted, the Directorate of Labor reviews the application and issues the work permit if requirements are met.

Step 4: Moving to Iceland. Upon approval, the applicant can relocate to Iceland and must register with Registers Iceland to receive an ID number (Kennitala).

Where to apply for an Iceland work permit?

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

What documents are needed for an Iceland work permit application?

To secure a work permit in Iceland, the employer must submit a complete set of documents, including:

• A filled-out work permit application form, obtained from the Directorate of Immigration.
• A passport with at least 3 months of validity beyond the applicant’s intended stay.
• Two recent passport-sized photographs, compliant with Iceland’s visa rules.
• A signed employment contract, stating the job details, salary, and employment terms.
• Evidence of professional qualifications, such as diplomas or work certificates.
• A criminal record certificate, issued no more than 6 months prior to submission.
• Valid medical travel insurance for the entire stay in Iceland.
• Documentation of accommodation arrangements, such as rental contracts.
• Financial proof, showing sufficient funds for living expenses.
• A receipt of the paid application fee, which varies between ISK 15,000 and 30,000.

How long does it take to get a work permit for Iceland?

Work permit applications for Iceland are generally processed within 90 days, but the timeframe may extend if additional documents are requested or if the application is incomplete.

Submitting a well-prepared application with all necessary documents can help minimize delays and ensure a smoother process.

Iceland work permit validity and extension guide

A standard work permit in Iceland is valid for up to one year, with the option to renew it if the individual remains employed. It is important to apply for a renewal at least 4 weeks before the expiration date to avoid any work disruptions.

After fulfilling the necessary employment period in Iceland, workers may apply for a long-term residence permit, providing them with extended stay privileges.

What Iceland work permit holders should know

If you're working in Iceland on a work permit, it's important to keep the following in mind:

1. Separate residence permit needed. Your work permit does not automatically grant you the right to live in Iceland; a residence permit must be obtained separately.

2. Job-specific permits. Work permits are generally tied to a specific employer and job role. Changing jobs requires a new application.

3. Legal protections. As a foreign worker, you are covered by Iceland’s labor laws, which include wage agreements and working conditions.

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 Kenyans / 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 Kenyans, 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 Kenyan 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 Kenyans

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 Kenyans

An Icelandic business visa for Kenyans 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 Kenyans 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.