Visa Types
Iceland Permanent Residency Path
How you can immigrate to Iceland, how to protect yourself from Fraud and What to expect after you arrive in Iceland.
Key Points for Iceland PR Visa >>>
Do you need a visa to travel to Iceland?
To visit Iceland, Indians will need a Schengen visa.
Iceland visa application is made online or offline?
You need to complete the visa application form online and also fill out the offline form completely (handwritten forms are not accepted). Once you’ve filled out the forms, you can print them and bring the printed copies to the VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
Do I need to give biometrics?
Yes, Biometrics are required to obtain a visa.
Is there an interview required to obtain a visa?
No, an interview is not usually required to obtain an Iceland visa, but it may vary. The embassy may interview you by phone or in person.
What is the maximum length of stay permitted on a PR visa?
You can live indefinitely on a permanent resident (PR) visa.
What kind of visa will we acquire from Iceland?
It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page in your passport
Current Visa fees: (Updated on 16-10-2023)
|
CATEGORY |
VISA FEE IN EURO |
|
Adult Visa |
90 |
|
Children Between 6 – 12 Years |
45 |
Note:
- Visa fees and service charges need to be paid in cash or by card.
- Keep in mind that each application is checked separately, and there’s no guarantee that a visa will be issued. Also, visa fees and service fees cannot be refunded.
Step-by-step guide
Let us walk you through the process
- First, figure out the visa type you need and make sure you're eligible to apply. Then, find out which documents you need to submit with your application, how long it might take, and the fees to pay.
- Make sure your application follows the guidelines for your specific visa category. If your documents aren't in English, consider getting them translated before you apply.
- Starting January 15, 2020, you should complete your visa application at http://visa.government.is/. After applying, print and sign the cover letter, and bring it along with supporting documents to the Visa Application Centre: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/isl/attend-centre. Remember to use the fully filled Visa Application form (Handwritten forms are not allowed starting from March 1, 2020).
- If you need help with your Schengen visa application, VFS can assist you. If you don't require assistance, please fill out the visa application at http://visa.government.is/ before visiting the visa application centre. This will speed up the submission process.
- After completing your visa form, you should schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre to have your fingerprints and photo captured, which is referred to as 'biometric information.'
- Upon booking your appointment, you will get an email confirming your appointment along with the appointment letter.
- For families or groups, each member needs to schedule their individual appointments.
- After submitting your application, you'll need to pay the visa application fee. If you download the form to print and take it to the Visa Application Centre, you can make the payment during your appointment.
- The visa fee is payable at the Visa Application Centre.
- You need to personally submit your fully filled visa application form at the Visa Application Centre.
- Learn about the processes that take place at the Visa Application Centre.
- You'll get an email when the decision is at the Visa Application Centre. For SMS updates or no easy email access, check for SMS tracking at your centre.
- Also, track your visa online with Reference Number and last name from the invoice.
- Once your visa application decision is made, you can collect your passport from the Visa Application Centre or choose to have it delivered by courier for an extra fee.
- To collect your passport in person, bring the receipt from the Visa Application Centre and a government ID. If allowed, a representative can collect on your behalf with a letter of authorization, their government ID, and your receipt.
- Check with the Visa Application Centre during opening hours for available document collection options.
DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
When applying for Permanent Residency in Iceland, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:
- Application Form: Obtain and fill out the appropriate application form for permanent residence in Iceland.
- Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
- Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Icelandic specifications.
- Proof of Identity: National ID card or other government-issued identification.
- Criminal Record Check: Provide a criminal record clearance certificate from your home country or any other country you’ve lived in for a specified period. This is to demonstrate you have no serious criminal history.
- Medical Examination: Some countries require a medical examination to demonstrate your good health and lack of contagious diseases.
- Proof of Residency: Show proof of continuous legal residence in Iceland, which could include rental agreements, utility bills, employment contracts, etc.
- Proof of Financial Means: Demonstrate your ability to financially support yourself and your family, which might involve bank statements, employment contracts, business income, etc.
- Employment Proof: If applicable, provide evidence of employment or job offer in Iceland.
- Proof of Language Proficiency: Depending on the case, you might need to demonstrate proficiency in the Icelandic language.
- Proof of Integration: Showcase your integration into Icelandic society through participation in community activities, social events, or cultural programs.
- Proof of Education: If applicable, provide your educational certificates and transcripts.
- Health Insurance: Show evidence of comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- Family Documents: If you’re applying with family members, provide their documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, etc.
- Fee Payment: Pay the required application fee.
- Statement of Intent: A written statement explaining your reasons for seeking permanent residence in Iceland.
- Background Information: Provide information about your background, work history, education, and any other relevant details.
- References: Letters of recommendation or references from employers, community leaders, or other relevant individuals.
- Personal Statement: Write a personal statement explaining your connection to Iceland and your plans for the future.
- Power of Attorney: If you’re using an immigration consultant or attorney, a power of attorney document might be needed.
- Translations and Notarization: If your documents are not in Icelandic or English, you might need to get them translated and notarized.
Employment-Based Pathway:
- Application Form for Permanent Residency.
- Passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
- Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Icelandic specifications.
- Proof of a Job Offer: Employment contract or letter from the employer detailing the job offer.
- Proof of Qualifications: Educational certificates and transcripts relevant to the job.
- Proof of Work Experience: Resume or CV detailing your work history and relevant experience.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or financial documents to demonstrate your ability to support yourself.
- Criminal Record Clearance Certificate from your home country or any other country you’ve lived in for a specified period.
- Medical Examination Report, if required.
- Proof of Residency: Rental agreements, utility bills, or other documents showing your legal residence in Iceland.
- Language Proficiency Certificate, if required.
- Any additional documents required by the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration.
Family Reunification Pathway:
- Application Form for Permanent Residency.
- Passport and identification documents for you and your family members.
- Birth certificates or marriage certificates to prove the family relationship.
- Proof of Family Member’s Icelandic Residency or Citizenship.
- Financial Documents: Proof of your ability to financially support yourself and your family members.
- Criminal Record Clearance Certificate from your home country or any other country you’ve lived in for a specified period.
- Medical Examination Reports for you and your family members, if required.
- Proof of Residency: Rental agreements, utility bills, or other documents showing your legal residence in Iceland.
- Language Proficiency Certificate, if required.
- Any additional documents required by the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration.
Student Pathway:
- Application Form for Permanent Residency.
- Passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
- Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Icelandic specifications.
- Proof of Higher Education Degree Completion in Iceland.
- Proof of Secured Employment in Iceland.
- Employment Contract or Letter from the Employer.
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or financial documents to demonstrate your ability to support yourself.
- Criminal Record Clearance Certificate from your home country or any other country you’ve lived in for a specified period.
- Medical Examination Report, if required.
- Proof of Residency: Rental agreements, utility bills, or other documents showing your legal residence in Iceland.
- Language Proficiency Certificate, if required.
- Any additional documents required by the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration.
Investor and Entrepreneur Pathway:
- Application Form for Permanent Residency.
- Passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
- Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Icelandic specifications.
- Proof of Investment Amount and Business Plan.
- Business Registration Documents.
- Financial Statements or Projections for the Business.
- Proof of Job Creation and Contribution to the Economy.
- Criminal Record Clearance Certificate from your home country or any other country you’ve lived in for a specified period.
- Medical Examination Report, if required.
- Proof of Residency: Rental agreements, utility bills, or other documents showing your legal residence in Iceland.
- Language Proficiency Certificate, if required.
- Any additional documents required by the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration.
Refugee or Asylum Seeker Pathway:
- Application Form for Permanent Residency.
- Passport and identification documents.
- Refugee or Asylum Status Documentation.
- Proof of Residency and Integration Efforts.
- Financial Documents: Proof of your ability to financially support yourself.
- Criminal Record Clearance Certificate from your home country or any other country you’ve lived in for a specified period.
- Medical Examination Reports, if required.
- Language Proficiency Certificate, if required.
- Any additional documents required by the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration.
Long-Term Resident EU Status:
- Application Form for Long-Term Resident EU Status.
- Passport and identification documents.
- Proof of Legal Residence in an EU Country for the required period.
- Proof of Integration Efforts and Language Proficiency, if required.
- Financial Documents: Proof of your ability to financially support yourself.
- Criminal Record Clearance Certificate from your home country or any other country you’ve lived in for a specified period.
- Medical Examination Reports, if required.
- Any additional documents required by the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration.
International Protection Pathway:
- Application Form for Permanent Residency.
- Passport and identification documents.
- Documentation of International Protection Status (Refugee or Subsidiary Protection).
- Proof of Residency and Integration Efforts.
- Financial Documents: Proof of your ability to financially support yourself.
- Criminal Record Clearance Certificate from your home country or any other country you’ve lived in for a specified period.
- Medical Examination Reports, if required.
- Language Proficiency Certificate, if required.
- Any additional documents required by the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration.
Note: Please note that the above checklists are general guidelines and might not cover all possible requirements. It’s recommended to consult official sources, such as the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration, for the most accurate and current information regarding document requirements for each pathway.
VISA APPLICATION FORMS
Before submitting your visa application, please ensure to review the list of required documents. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of your visa application being rejected due to incorrect or insufficient documents.
Application Form For Permanent residence permit
To get a permanent residence permit, you apply online. You pay the processing fee at the end of the online application. You need an electronic certificate to apply, and you can find registration sites for it. You don’t have to finish the application all at once; you can pause and finish it within 60 days.
VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES :
The process for applying for a Iceland Permanent Residence typically involves the following steps:
- Eligibility Criteria:
- To apply for permanent residency in Iceland, you typically need to have lived in the country for 4 Years under a valid residence permit.
- Residence Permit:
- Ensure that you have a valid residence permit in Iceland throughout the required residency period. Most individuals apply for temporary residence permits based on work, family, or other grounds initially.
- Legal Residency:
- You must have legally resided in Iceland during your residence period. This means you should not have had long periods of absence from the country.
- Stable Income and Financial Support:
- You should be able to demonstrate that you have a stable source of income and can support yourself financially without relying on Icelandic social assistance.
- Language Proficiency:
- Depending on your situation, you may be required to demonstrate proficiency in the Icelandic language. Language requirements can vary, but a basic knowledge of Icelandic is often necessary.
- Good Conduct:
- You must have a clean criminal record and be able to prove that you are of good character.
- Application Process:
- To apply for permanent residency, you will need to submit an application to the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration (Utlendingastofnun).
- You may also need to submit various supporting documents, such as proof of residence, employment history, financial statements, and language proficiency certificates.
- Interview or Assessment:
- Depending on your circumstances, you may be required to attend an interview or undergo an assessment to evaluate your eligibility for permanent residency.
- Decision:
- The Directorate of Immigration will review your application and make a decision. This process can take several months.
- Residence Card:
- If your application is approved, you will receive a residence card indicating your permanent residency status.
Note: It’s important to stay informed about any changes in immigration regulations or requirements since these can change over time. Consulting with immigration authorities or an immigration attorney in Iceland is advisable to ensure your application is accurate and up-to-date. Keep in mind that meeting all eligibility criteria and providing complete documentation are essential for a successful permanent residency application in Iceland.
Valid Residence Permit:
- You need an existing legal permit to live in Iceland before applying for permanent residency. Keep this permit valid during your application.
Four Years in Iceland (with exceptions):
- Typically, you must have lived in Iceland for four years continuously. Some exceptions exist, especially for certain permit types or family reunification cases.
Continuous Residency:
- Avoid prolonged absences from Iceland during your required residency period. Show that Iceland is your primary residence.
Icelandic Language Course:
- Depending on your situation, you may need to attend an Icelandic language course. Basic understanding may be necessary, but requirements vary based on your nationality and permit type.
Stable Financial Support:
- Prove you can financially support yourself without relying on Icelandic social assistance. Show evidence of a stable income or resources for living expenses.
Clean Criminal Record:
- Maintain a clean criminal record; no ongoing or unresolved criminal cases in Iceland or elsewhere. This ensures good character for permanent residency eligibility.
For more information about Permanent Residence Permit: Click here
Employment-Based Pathway:
- This pathway allows individuals to immigrate to Iceland for employment purposes. It typically involves obtaining a work permit, which can be temporary or long-term, depending on the job and qualifications.
- Applicants need a valid job offer from an Icelandic employer and must meet specific requirements related to qualifications, skills, and sometimes language proficiency.
Family Reunification Pathway:
- Family members of Icelandic citizens and permanent residents can use this pathway to join their relatives in Iceland.
- Eligible family members may include spouses, children, and, in some cases, other close relatives. The sponsoring family member in Iceland must meet certain criteria.
Student Pathway:
- This pathway is for individuals who want to study in Iceland. Students typically apply for a student residence permit to pursue their education.
- While studying in Iceland, some students may have opportunities for part-time work, depending on their program and circumstances.
Investor and Entrepreneur Pathway:
- This pathway is designed for individuals who wish to invest in or establish a business in Iceland. It often involves obtaining an entrepreneurial work permit or investor residence permit.
- Applicants are generally required to submit a business plan and demonstrate their financial capacity to invest in or start a business in Iceland.
Refugee or Asylum Seeker Pathway:
- This pathway is for individuals seeking refuge in Iceland due to persecution, conflict, or other humanitarian reasons. Asylum seekers apply for protection and undergo a legal process to determine their eligibility for refugee status.
- Once granted refugee status, individuals can access various services and rights in Iceland, including the right to work and reside in the country.
Long-Term Resident EU Status:
- This pathway applies to citizens of EU/EEA countries and their family members who have resided in Iceland for an extended period.
- After meeting specific residency requirements, individuals can apply for long-term resident EU status, which grants certain rights similar to permanent residency.
International Protection Pathway:
- This pathway is for individuals granted international protection in Iceland, such as refugee status or subsidiary protection.
- Once granted protection, individuals can live and work in Iceland and may have the opportunity to reunify with family members.
Note: The specific requirements and processes for each pathway may change over time, so it’s essential to consult with the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration or a qualified immigration expert for the most up-to-date information and guidance.