Iceland has launched a new visa programme aimed at attracting digital nomads, offering foreign remote workers the chance to live and work in the country for up to six months. The initiative targets professionals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) who work for overseas employers or run their own businesses.
Stay Options and Scope
The visa allows stays between three and six months, depending on the applicant’s location when applying. Those applying from their home country before entering Iceland can secure a visa for up to 180 days. Applicants already in the Schengen area may be granted a visa for up to 90 days.
The programme does not permit visa holders to work for Icelandic employers or participate in the local labour market. However, they can bring spouses and children under 18, provided these family members are exempt from Schengen visa requirements.
Visa holders will not receive an Icelandic ID number (kennitala), underlining the temporary nature of their stay.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
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Be citizens of non-EEA/EFTA countries.
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Be exempt from needing a visa to enter the Schengen area.
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Not have received a long-term visa from Iceland in the past 12 months.
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Work remotely for a foreign employer or as a self-employed individual, without plans for permanent settlement.
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Show proof of monthly foreign income of at least ISK 1,000,000 (about USD 7,200) for individuals or ISK 1,300,000 (about USD 9,400) when applying with a spouse or partner.
Application Process
The application must be submitted in paper form to the Directorate of Immigration in Kópavogur or District Commissioners’ offices outside the capital.
Applicants need to pay a processing fee of ISK 12,200 (around USD 88) via bank transfer and include the payment receipt with their application. Required documents include:
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A valid passport with copies of personal data, signature, visas, and Schengen stamps.
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A recent passport-sized photograph (35×45 mm).
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Proof of health insurance for the duration of the stay.
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A contract or official letter from a foreign employer, or proof of self-employment.
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Evidence of meeting the income requirement.
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For family members: marriage, birth, or custody documents.
Applicants must contact the Directorate of Immigration upon arrival in Iceland to finalise visa issuance. Incomplete applications can lead to delays or rejection.
Benefits and Limitations
Visa holders can explore Iceland’s landscapes while continuing their work remotely and may also visit other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
The programme is designed solely for temporary remote work and does not lead to residency or employment in Iceland’s local job market.
With this initiative, Iceland joins a growing list of countries appealing to digital nomads, combining its natural beauty, safety, and strong infrastructure with a unique remote work opportunity.
For further details and to apply, visit Ísland.is.