For many foreigners who want to live and work in Iceland, a residence permit (dvalarleyfi) is the first requirement. The rules can be complex and depend on your nationality and your reason for moving. These are the basics.
EEA and EFTA citizens
Citizens of EEA and EFTA countries (the EU, Norway and Liechtenstein) and Switzerland do not need a residence permit. They can stay in Iceland for up to three months, or longer while looking for work, and must then register their residence with Registers Iceland (Þjóðskrá) to get an Icelandic ID number (kennitala).
The rest of this article applies to citizens of other countries.
Types of residence permit
A residence permit gives a foreign national the right to stay in Iceland for a set period, and often to work. There are different types of permit depending on the purpose of your stay, including work, study and family reunification, each with its own conditions.
Work-based permits usually also require a work permit issued by the Directorate of Labour (Vinnumálastofnun), and the employer often has to apply with you.
Applying
Applications are submitted to the Directorate of Immigration (Útlendingastofnun). As a rule you must apply before arriving in Iceland and include all required documents, such as proof of income, health insurance and a criminal record certificate.
An incomplete application can delay the process or lead to a refusal, so careful preparation matters.
Family reunification
Foreign nationals with a residence permit, and Icelandic citizens, can in some cases apply for family reunification so that spouses, partners or children can join them in Iceland. The rules on who qualifies and on financial support are specific, and advice is often useful.
If your application is refused
If your application is refused, you can usually appeal to the Immigration and Asylum Appeals Board (kærunefnd útlendingamála). The deadline to appeal is short, usually 15 days, so act quickly.
A lawyer can assess the decision and help with the appeal. These cases fall under immigration and human rights law.
When to involve a lawyer
In complex cases, after a refusal or when a lot is at stake, an experienced immigration lawyer can make a real difference. They know the procedure, check that the authorities follow the rules and protect your interests.
Find a lawyer under immigration and human rights law or browse lawyers in your region.