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Iceland Work Visa: Everything You Need To Know

Last Update: 16-07-2024

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Aditya Jain

Iceland Work Visa

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. What is an Iceland work visa?
  3. Types of Iceland Work Visas
  4. Iceland Work Visa Requirements
  5. Application Process for Iceland Work Visa for Indians
  6. Iceland Work Visa Processing Time for Indian Applicants
  7. Iceland Work Visa Status Check from India
  8. Final Thought
  9. FAQs

Introduction

Moving to work in Iceland is a significant step for many professionals, particularly from India. This guide will assist you through the process of obtaining the appropriate working visa for Iceland.


Whether you are a researcher, an entrepreneur, or joining the Icelandic workforce under various employment schemes, understanding the application requirements, types of visas, and the process is crucial.


This guide provides essential information on finding the right visa type, understanding the application process, and learning about the processing time and fees.

What is an Iceland work visa?

An Iceland work visa is a permit that allows foreign nationals to work in Iceland legally. It is typically required for individuals who wish to take up employment or conduct business activities in the country. The work visa ensures that the applicant meets Iceland's immigration and employment regulations and is eligible to work in Iceland for a specified period.


To obtain a work visa for Iceland, applicants usually need to secure a job offer from an Icelandic employer, meet specific qualifications and requirements, and submit the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, and sometimes a criminal background check.

Types of Iceland Work Visas

  1. Iceland Temporary Work Visa: This short-term work visa is tailored for Indian nationals seeking employment in Iceland under a local employer for specific, project-based assignments requiring defined skills and a set duration. Valid for up to two years, it allows for extension if the job's duration and demands expand beyond the initial period. Before applying for approval, the employer in Iceland must submit an Iceland work permit application on behalf of the applicant.
  2. Iceland Resident Permit Work Visa: To qualify for long-term projects and employment contracts with an Icelandic employer, you must apply for a residence permit work visa. This process is the same as the temporary work visa. Valid for up to four years from issuance, this visa can be renewed as long as you remain employed by the same employer in Iceland. The employer must provide sponsorship for both your residence permit and Iceland work permit applications. Additionally, holding this visa enables you to apply for permanent residency in Iceland once you fulfill specific criteria, enhancing your prospects for establishing a stable life in Iceland and accessing various residency benefits.

Iceland Work Visa Requirements

Valid Passport

  • Issued within the last 10 years.
  • Should be valid for at least 3 months after the intended return.
  • Must have at least 2 blank pages.
  • Old/cancelled passports – including any valid visas for Schengen or USA/UK (issued in the last 3 years).

Completed visa application form

Application must be submitted online, no handwritten forms accepted.

Travel Health Insurance

  • Minimum coverage of € 30,000.
  • Valid for all Schengen countries. 
  • Should cover the costs of emergency medical treatment in case of and even repatriation in case of death.
  • must clearly specify the period of validity and must cover the entire duration of the trip including the date of arrival & departure.

Proof of Accommodation

  • Hotel booking reservation, or
  • Proof of rental home, or
  • Campus residence reservation.
  • If you intend to stay with family/friends, provide proof of private accommodation from the host or proof of sponsorship
  • If you’re travelling to other Schengen states, proof of accommodation in each of them.

Employment contract with signatures

Agreement outlining terms between employer and employee.

Colour Photograph

  • White background.
  • Dimensions:  35mm x 45mm.  
  • Should be taken in the last 6 months.

Signed Invitation Letter

Containing contact details of the inviting party; the applicant's identity; the purpose of the journey (meetings, conferences, training, or business-related events); and the period and place of intended stay.

Cover Letter from Employer on Company Letterhead

  • confirming the applicant’s identity, and the purpose of the journey (meetings, conferences, training, or business-related events).
  • The dates, place, and purpose of the trip.

If the Visit is Sponsored

  • Proof of sponsorship and a letter from the sponsor. 
  • Copy of the sponsor’s photo ID (e.g., passport, residence permit card).
  • If sponsored by a spouse, provide a marriage certificate.
  • Bank account statement of the sponsor of the trip. It should be accompanied by a signed sponsorship letter and a signed copy of the sponsor’s passport.

Income Tax Return Acknowledgement

ITR-V of the last 2 years.

Application Process for Iceland Work Visa for Indians

Step 1: Gather required documents

  1. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for an Iceland work visa and understand its requirements for Indian citizens.
  2. Gather information on the Iceland work visa cost and necessary documentation.
  3. Ensure all your documents are in English.

Step 2: Submit your Iceland Visa Application Form

  1. Applicants who wish to apply for Resident Permits or D Visa for Iceland must first submit their application to the Directorate of Immigration department. You can contact the embassy via email.
  2. Once the application is accepted by the Directorate of Immigration, they will request the applicant to visit the nearest visa application centre.
  3. After applying, print and sign the forms.
  4. Submit the forms with supporting documents and provide biometrics at the VFS Visa Application Centre.

Step 3: Appointment at VFS Global

  1. Schedule an appointment at the Iceland VFS Visa Application Centre to submit your application form and documents.
  2. Personal attendance is required.

  1. Submit your printed application form and documents at the VFS Global office.
  2. Pay the fee (if not paid online) and submit your biometrics in person.

Step 5: Pay Your Visa Fees

  1. Pay the Icelandic work visa fee online, which is approximately €80.
  2. Be aware that VFS Global has additional service charges.

If you choose to print the form and bring it to the Visa Application Centre, payment will be made during your appointment.


  1. Once the visa authorities have made a decision on your application, you can collect your documents from the VFS Global office.
  2. You can either collect them in person or use their courier services for an additional fee.

  • Original ICR
  • Copy of your Government ID Proof

Immediate family members (parents, siblings, spouse, or children) or company representatives can collect the documents on your behalf. Third parties must carry:

  • Photocopy of the Government ID card of all applicants
  • Original ICR
  • Authorization letter from the applicant (on company letterhead for company representatives, along with their official ID card).

Note: If the ICR is lost, the applicant must collect the passport in person from the counter.


The decision on your Iceland visa application may take approximately 15 days. If your application is rejected, you have the option to appeal the decision or reapply.

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Teleport’s Expert Tip

VFS Global offers a ‘Visa At Your Doorstep’ (VAYD) service, which allows their representatives to visit you at your preferred location to collect biometric data and documents. This service helps streamline the visa application process, making it more convenient for you.

Iceland Work Visa Processing Time for Indian Applicants

The expected Iceland work visa processing time for applications is approximately 90 days upon receipt of sufficient documentation. Delays may occur if supporting documents are incomplete or missing.


Note: Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their applications promptly upon securing employment in the country to expedite processing.

Iceland Work Visa Status Check from India

There are two ways to check your Iceland work visa status:

Contact VFS Global

If your application was submitted through VFS Global, the service provider used by the Icelandic embassy, you can likely check the status online.

  1. Visit the VFS Global website for Iceland: VFS Global Iceland.
  2. Look for the "Track Your Application" section.
  3. Enter your application reference number and date of birth to access the information.

Contact the Iceland Embassy in New Delhi

You can also directly contact the Icelandic embassy in New Delhi, India, to inquire about your application status.

  1. Email: Send an inquiry to the embassy at [email protected]. Verify this email address on the official website to ensure accuracy.
  2. Phone: Call the embassy at +91 11 4604 4440. Check the operating hours before calling to ensure you reach them during their working hours.

Learn more about Iceland visas

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Iceland Visa Appointment

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Iceland Visa for Indians

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Iceland Tourist Visa

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Iceland Blogs

Final Thought

Securing an Iceland work visa requires careful navigation through several essential steps, starting with gathering the correct documentation and selecting the appropriate visa type that aligns with your employment requirements. This guide provides you with a structured path to follow throughout the application process.


It's important to meticulously prepare each document, understand the payment procedures, and be aware of the steps involved in extending your visa if necessary. Should you encounter any challenges along the way, refer to this guide for guidance, and consider seeking advice from immigration professionals to ensure a smooth application process and a successful stay in Iceland.

FAQs

How to book a visa appointment for Iceland?

To book a visa appointment for Iceland, visit the VFS Global Iceland page, select your visa type, fill in your details, schedule an appointment online, prepare all required documents as listed on the VFS Global website, and attend your appointment at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre to submit your application and biometrics.

What should I do if my Iceland visa appointment is denied?

If your Iceland visa appointment is denied, review the reasons provided, rectify any issues, and reapply with the correct information. You can also contact VFS Global or the Icelandic embassy in New Delhi for further guidance on addressing the denial reasons.

How long does it take to get a decision after the Iceland visa appointment?

After your Iceland visa appointment, it typically takes about 15 days to receive a decision. However, Iceland work visa processing times can vary, so it's advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

How far in advance should I schedule my Iceland visa appointment?

You should schedule your Iceland visa appointment at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance of your planned travel date to allow sufficient time for processing and any potential delays.

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