If you plan to move to Reykjavík, your immigration status will determine the administrative path you must take. Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) can enter and reside in Iceland without a visa. However, you must register your residence if staying longer than three months. Non-EEA citizens must apply for a residence permit and, if working, a work permit (often arranged by your employer). Application processing can take several months, so plan ahead.

Iceland does not offer a dedicated “digital nomad visa” but non-EEA remote workers can apply for a long-term visa that allows those who work independently for a foreign company or are self-employed outside of Iceland to live in the country for up to 180 days, provided they meet certain income requirements and don’t enter the local labor market. Students from outside the EEA must apply for a student residence permit, typically tied to enrollment in an Icelandic university.

To stay long-term, you’ll need a kennitala: an Icelandic ID number essential for all aspects of life from renting an apartment to opening a bank account. Your kennitala is issued after your residence permit is approved and you’ve registered with Registers Iceland (skra.is).

Written by Yessica Klein
Main photo by Business Insider