Iceland Digital Nomad Visa: How to Apply [5 Steps]

What if you could see the Northern Lights more than just once in your lifetime? With the Iceland digital nomad visa, you can see them every day for months at a time! 

Remote workers who meet the visa’s requirements can live in Iceland for up to 180 days and enjoy everything it has to offer. It’s perfect for those digital nomads who love getting lost in nature and exploring new terrain while witnessing some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

While Iceland is definitely a popular tourist destination, digital nomads now have the chance to get a genuine feel for the country. Spending six months on the island, you’ll surely become familiar with local customs, practices, and things you never knew before. 

Let’s not forget that the wifi in Iceland is outstanding! The average download speed is 162 megabits per second. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the happiest countries in the world. 

Iceland joins other European countries such as Croatia, Portugal, Malta, Greece, and Spain in welcoming remote workers with a digital nomad visa. 

What is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa allows remote workers to obtain a temporary residence permit to live in a foreign country. 

You must either be employed by, own a business, or be self-employed outside of the country you wish to receive a digital nomad visa. 

Typically, digital nomad visas last from six months to two years, depending on the country. 

It’s important to note that a digital nomad visa does not allow you to work for a local business. For example, you cannot apply for a job at a local office or restaurant. 

Iceland Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

As with all digital nomad visas, there are specific requirements you must meet to be eligible to receive the Iceland digital nomad visa. 

• Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid for at least three months after the visa term
• Not from EU/EEA/EFTA – You must not be a citizen in the EU/EEA/EFTA, only third-country nationals may apply
• Do Not Need an Entry Visa – You must be able to enter Iceland without an entry visa
• Did Not Hold an Iceland Visa in the Last 12 Months – You must not have held a long-term visa from Iceland in the last year
• Work Remotely – You must be employed by, own a company, or be self-employed outside of Iceland
• Earn at least $7,700/month – You must meet the minimum income requirement (1,000,000 ISK/month)
• Health Insurance – You must have health insurance coverage in Iceland for the duration of your visa
• Clean Criminal Record – You must have a clean criminal record

It’s important to note that if you plan to bring your spouse/partner with you, the income requirement increases to $10,000 per month or 1,300,000 ISK.

If you meet the requirements stated above, then you can move forward with applying for the Iceland digital nomad visa. 

Steps to Apply

The application process is quite simple and does not involve waiting for appointments at embassies or consulates. 

Step 1: Gather Documents

To make the application as simple and streamlined as possible, we recommend gathering all the necessary documents beforehand. You’ll need to submit the following documents with your application:

• Copy of Passport & Stamps
• Passport Photo (34mm X 45mm)
• Purpose of Stay – Proof of Remote Work
• Proof of Income (Bank Statements, Payslips, Contracts, etc.)
• Proof of Health Insurance
• Criminal Background Check

If applying with a partner or spouse, you must also submit a marriage certificate or proof you have lived with them for at least 12 months. 

Step 2: Pay Application Fee

Before submitting your application, you must pay a non-refundable application fee of $93.93 (or 12,200 ISK) per applicant. 

To pay the application fee, you must send it via bank transfer. You can find Iceland’s bank information on this website at the bottom of the page. 

IMPORTANT: Make sure to save the proof of payment receipt as you must submit it with your application and documents. 

Step 3: Submit Application

Next, you will fill out the application for the Iceland digital nomad visa. You can find it on the government website here. 

Print out the application and sign it. 

You will then mail the application or submit it via the dropbox if you’re already in Iceland at the following address:

Directorate of Immigration at Dalvegur 18, 201 Kópavogur

If submitting your application while already in Iceland, it’s important to know that they will subtract the number of days you’ve already spent in the country from the 180-day visa. 

Step 4: Wait for Approval

The Directorate of Immigration will contact you about whether your application was approved or not. In some cases, they may ask for more information or documents. 

Step 5: Obtain Digital Nomad Visa

Once you enter Iceland, you must obtain your visa. Upon your arrival, email [email protected] and they will issue your visa starting from your entry date. 

Iceland for Digital Nomads

You may not consider Iceland to be the most ideal digital nomad destination, but it certainly has a unique experience to offer. 

One of the top-selling points for Iceland is the optimal wifi speed. It’s perfect for photographers and videographers who need to upload and download large files or if you’re in Zoom meetings for most of the day. 

Many digital nomads spend their time in the capital city of Reykjavik. There are a handful of coworking spaces, cafes, and tons of restaurants and bars located in the city. It’s a vibrant and colorful city with tons to do and a great place to buckle down and focus on your work. 

Of course, Iceland has gorgeous natural views for you to enjoy when it’s time to close your laptop for the day. From black sand beaches to waterfalls to thermal baths like the Blue Lagoon, you’ll find a new appreciation for our incredible planet. 

It’s important to note that Iceland is not as budget-friendly as other digital nomad destinations. However, if you meet the income requirement for Iceland’s digital nomad visa, you will surely live comfortably and well even with the local prices.

Get Help Applying for Digital Nomad Visas

Even after reading step-by-step guides like this one, applying for a digital nomad visa may be confusing and overwhelming. 

Nomads Embassy makes it easy to apply for digital nomad visas worldwide. 

We are working with hand-selected partners who specialize in helping people apply for digital nomad visas. 

From deciding which digital nomad visa to choose to answering your specific questions, you can count on a smooth and straightforward process when getting your visa. 

To stay up to date with the latest digital nomad news and visas, make sure to join our newsletter too! 

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