How To Move To Iceland In 2024

13.01.2024 - 17:35 / forbes.com

From phenomenal volcanic landscapes to glaciers and waterfalls galore, Iceland is a nature lover’s dream. The country tops the list of desirable travel destinations for so many people with a keen interest in adventure travel, geology, or nature in general.

In the few years prior to the pandemic, more than two million people visited Iceland every year. With tourist numbers now recovering, it can seem in high season as if almost everyone you meet in Iceland is a foreign visitor.

That’s partly explained by the country’s relatively small population of just 376,000, of which two-thirds live within the Greater Reykjavik region.

Despite the perception of Icelandic society as homogeneous from a distance, over 15% of Iceland’s population now comprises first-generation immigrants. That’s a significant increase from about 10% just a decade ago.

The stunning landscapes of lava fields, geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and glaciers attract nature lovers, keen photographers, and those with a keen interest in adventure travel. There’s a lot to love about Iceland for outdoor enthusiasts, and living there means it would all be on your doorstep.

But there’s a lot more to everyday life in Iceland than what you experience on even the longest of trips.

Because of the island’s remote location and relative lack of agricultural land, most food aside from seafood is imported and therefore expensive. The cost of living in Iceland ranks as one of the highest in Europe.

Considering the small population, finding a job is a challenge outside the fields of tourism, fishing, and renewable energy. Even within those fields, the relatively high competence of English among Icelanders means that native English ability isn't the standout skill it would be in some countries.

Temporary employment in the tourism industry is one option to consider to get a taster for Icelandic lifestyle without uprooting your life.

If you’re considering a move to Iceland, it’s important to become familiar with the processes as soon as possible. The overall immigration process is managed by the Directorate of Immigration, although work permits are issued by the Directorate of Labor.

There are many different categories of residence permits, so it’s important to do your research before you begin the process.

Citizens of EU, EEA, or EFTA countries hoping to live and work in Iceland can take advantage of a simplified process. They can enter Iceland without special permits for a period of three months. If seeking employment, this initial stay can be extended to six months.

If intending to stay beyond this period, individuals must apply for a tax card and register as a foreign national living in Iceland. This provides access to a national ID number, essential for