Iceland has introduced a long-term visa program designed for remote workers, offering digital nomads—including freelancers, vloggers, and other professionals—the opportunity to live and work in one of the world’s most beautiful countries for up to 180 days.
As detailed on the official government portal Ísland.is, the initiative targets professionals from non-EEA/EFTA countries who work remotely for foreign employers or are self-employed, while enjoying Iceland’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
Key Features of the Long-Term Visa:
Duration: Allows eligible individuals to stay in Iceland for 90 to 180 days, depending on where they apply from.
Applicants outside the Schengen Area may be granted up to 180 days.
Applicants already within the Schengen Area may be eligible for a 90-day stay.
Work Restrictions: Visa holders cannot work for Icelandic employers or participate in the local labor market, keeping the focus strictly on remote work.
Family Inclusion: Spouses/partners and children under 18 can also apply for visas as dependents, provided they are exempt from the Schengen visa requirement.
Identification: Visa holders will not be issued an Icelandic ID number (kennitala), underscoring the temporary nature of their stay.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must:
Be a citizen of a non-EEA/EFTA country
Be exempt from needing a visa to enter the Schengen Area
Not have received a long-term visa from Iceland in the past 12 months
Intend to work remotely from Iceland for a foreign employer or as self-employed, with no plans for permanent residency
Show proof of monthly income of at least ISK 1,000,000 (approx. USD 7,200), or ISK 1,300,000 (approx. USD 9,400) if applying with a spouse/partner
Application Process:
Applications are submitted in paper form to the Directorate of Immigration in Kópavogur or district commissioner offices outside the capital.
A processing fee of ISK 12,000 (approx. USD 88) must be paid via bank transfer, and the receipt must be attached.
Required Documents:
Valid passport with copies of personal info, signature page, visas, and Schengen entry/exit stamps
Recent passport-size photo
Proof of valid health insurance for the duration of stay
Employment or self-employment verification, such as a contract or letter from a foreign employer
Proof of sufficient income (employment contract or project agreements)
Additional documents for family members (e.g., marriage or birth certificates, custody papers)
Incomplete applications may result in delays or rejection. Upon arrival in Iceland, applicants must contact the Directorate of Immigration to complete visa procedures.
Benefits and Limitations:
Enables remote professionals to experience Iceland’s natural beauty, safety, and modern infrastructure while continuing their careers.
Permits up to 90 days of travel within other Schengen countries during the visa period.
Does not support integration into Iceland’s labor market or lead to permanent residency.
