Iceland is one of the 26 European states of the Schengen Area. Located northwest of the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Norway. It is an island with impressive mountains, fjords, and geothermal spas where you can see the beautiful northern lights and visit the museums showcasing their ancient Viking heritage.
Obtaining a digital nomad visa in Iceland opens up a world of exciting opportunities for freelancers and remote workers. This visa program allows individuals to experience the benefits of living and working in Iceland while immersing themselves in its unique culture and breathtaking landscapes. From the mesmerizing waterfalls and geothermal hot springs to the stunning glaciers and volcanic landscapes, the country is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Digital nomads can take advantage of their flexible work arrangements to venture out and discover these awe-inspiring sights, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
While Iceland is currently not on the radar of most digital nomads, it is worth noting that they do offer a 6-month temporary visa for remote workers, as those travelling on a tourist visa can generally only stay for 90 days out of a possible 180-day period.
Iceland's cities provide a dynamic and cosmopolitan backdrop for the digital nomad lifestyle. Reykjavik, the capital, offers a vibrant blend of modern amenities, thriving arts and music scene, and a welcoming community. Exploring the city's unique cafes, restaurants, and cultural events allows nomads to experience the local culture firsthand while networking with fellow travelers and expats.
This visa provides enough time to travel and work in Iceland without having to pay taxes there. Iceland could be one of several stops for digital nomads interested in moving around to other destinations, such as Romania, Estonia, and Croatia. While citizens of most countries, such as the United States, can already stay in Iceland for up to 90 days on a tourist visa, it could still be helpful to apply for this visa.
Iceland's cities provide a dynamic and cosmopolitan backdrop for the digital nomad lifestyle
The digital nomad visa also provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in Icelandic culture. By living and working in Iceland, nomads can engage with the friendly locals, learn about their traditions, and even pick up the basics of the Icelandic language. This cultural exchange enriches the nomadic experience and creates a deeper connection to the country and its people.
Tourist attractions include whale watching, geothermal spas, the Northern Lights, volcanoes, glacier parks, and nature reserves. Iceland has virtually everything to offer outdoor enthusiasts, and many of these destinations are not far from the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik.
Reykjavik is located along Iceland's coastline, with a population of around 135,000, which makes up about 60% of Iceland's population. Naturally, this is the first stop for many digital nomads that want to connect with other people in the country. Reykjavik is also a relatively small and peaceful city, making travel easy.
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Reykjavik, the capital, offers a vibrant blend of modern amenities, thriving arts and music scene, and a welcoming community
One commonly known fact about Iceland is the relative lack of daylight during the winter. November through February can be some challenging months, as there can be as little as 4 hours of daylight in parts of Iceland during these months. The average temperature in December in Iceland can get as low as 28°F (-2°C), and a high of 39°F (4°C), so many tourists visit Iceland between Spring and Fall when the climate is warmer.
One thing about Iceland is the higher cost of living, which deters many digital nomads. Rent in Reykjavik can be around $1,371/month for a one-bedroom apartment. The average net salary in Iceland is $3,263/month, and applicants need to prove that they make well above this amount. However, digital nomads who meet the income requirements still should be able to live, save and travel, as the income requirement is more than double the average salary. One other thing to note is that wifi in Iceland is fast and steady, so working remotely will prove to be extremely easy.
For food enthusiasts, Iceland offers a chance to indulge in its culinary delights. From traditional Icelandic dishes like lamb stew and fresh seafood to innovative takes on international cuisine, the food scene caters to every palate. Whether it's exploring the local markets, dining in trendy restaurants, or even trying some of Iceland's unique street food, there's something to satisfy every food lover's cravings.
Another benefit of the digital nomad visa is the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow travelers and expats. Iceland attracts visitors from all over the world, creating a diverse and welcoming community. Networking with like-minded individuals allows nomads to exchange experiences, collaborate on projects, and forge long-lasting friendships. This flexibility allows for a balanced lifestyle, blending work and exploration seamlessly.
Iceland is a perfect place to explore if you are not set back by the higher income requirements and cost of living, and having a 6-month digital nomad visa gives you more time to explore Iceland.
The Iceland digital nomad visa allows foreign workers to spend up to 6 months working in Iceland. The program helps to boost tourism and provides a clear legal framework for digital nomads who previously chose to work in Iceland while on a tourist visa. Iceland has limited the visa length to 6 months, which ensures there is no need for digital nomads to pay taxes in Iceland.
Obtaining a digital nomad visa in Iceland provides a gateway to an incredible life of exploration, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. From the diverse landscapes to the vibrant cities, this visa program offers freelancers and remote workers the chance to experience Iceland's unique culture, connect with fellow travelers and expats, savor delicious food, and create unforgettable memories in one of the world's most captivating destinations.
This program is very attractive for digital nomads but still attracts fewer numbers due to the higher income requirements and the shorter visa length. Nevertheless, this visa is still highly ideal for those interested in Iceland who don't want to stay longer than 90 days.
Obtaining a digital nomad visa in Iceland provides a gateway to an incredible life of exploration, cultural immersion, and natural beauty
Below are some of the requirements for applying:
In order to apply, you need to submit an L-802 application form, along with all the necessary documents. The applicant needs to provide documentation such as:
If you are applying for a dependent (such as a spouse), you must also submit:
Criminal record checks if necessary. According to the Director of Immigration's Website, you may or may not be requested to provide a clear criminal record check. All of the other document requirements are always required. The Icelandic government wants to ensure that applicants have a sufficient income earned outside of Iceland and do not plan to stay in Iceland long term.
It is also essential not to apply within the Schengen area if you want to maximize your stay. If you apply from this region, the visa will only be granted for 90 days instead of 180 days.
To apply, follow these steps:
Pay the Digital Nomad Visa fee. You must first make payment via a bank transfer. The bank information details are listed on the Directorate of Immigration website. You have to attach the payment receipt to the rest of the required documents.
Submit your documents, then wait for an answer. All required documents must be submitted via postage to the Directorate of Immigration in Kópavogur. If you are already in Iceland at the time of application, you can drop them off in the lobby of the Directorate of Immigration. The processing time for a long-term visa application is approximately 3 to 4 weeks.
Enter Iceland and obtain your visa. Your digital visa is not issued until you arrive in Iceland. Once you enter Iceland, you must contact the Iceland Directorate of Immigration, and they will issue a visa for you. The validity period of the remote worker visa is calculated from the issuance date.
The fee is ISK12,200 (appx. $87 USD). If your spouse or children are joining you, you must pay a separate fee for each applicant.
The Iceland digital nomad visa allows foreign workers to spend up to 6 months working in Iceland
The digital nomad visa program in Iceland is an excellent opportunity for one to spend a somewhat longer period of time there. However, If you want to work for a company in Iceland, you need a residence and a working permit, so this visa will not be a good fit. Another benefit of this program is that your time in Iceland will not impact your application or travel to other countries in the Schengen area. Therefore, it is easy for someone to spend six months in Iceland and the remaining part of the year travelling throughout Europe. If the relatively short length of the visa and the high cost of living are not deal breakers for you, then this is a wonderful digital nomad visa program to consider.
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