Ibrahim Gardner
Iceland is a popular destination for international students, who make up 5% of the student population in Icelandic higher education. The country boasts a unique natural environment, a high literacy rate, and a low unemployment rate. International students can take advantage of inexpensive tuition prices and part-time work opportunities to fund their studies and gain work experience. In this article, we will explore the topic 'Can international students work in Iceland?' by examining the visa requirements, work permits, and employment options available to international students in Iceland.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Work restrictions for international students | International students with EEA/EFTA citizenship will not need a work permit and don't have work restrictions. |
| Non-EEA/EFTA citizens must apply for a work permit and can work up to 15 hours per week during the school year. | |
| Work permits for graduates | Non-EU/EEA students can get their visa extended for 6 months or get a 6-month permit to seek employment by applying to the directorate of immigration. |
| There are three types of Iceland post-study work visas for non-EU/EEA students: Qualified professionals visa, Temporary Work Permit for Expert Knowledge, and Temporary Work Permit for Labor Shortages. | |
| Tuition fees for international students | Public universities do not charge international students' tuition. They only need to pay the registration fee of around ISK 75,000, which is around 520 euros. |
| Private universities are a different story. Their tuition fees can be quite expensive and they change depending on whether you’re an EU/EEA or non-EU/EEA student. | |
| Scholarships | There is a partially funded scholarship for Pakistani and other international students in Iceland. This scholarship is only for master's and PhD candidates in specific departments and subjects. |
| Accommodation | International students can find accommodation in student flats near universities, which cost around ISK 92,634 ($727) per month. |
| International students may also choose off-campus accommodation, which is typically more expensive and includes renting a flat alone or sharing it with others. Private accommodation prices range from ISK 108,073 ($848) to ISK 200,695 (1,575). | |
| Living costs | The average living cost for international students is between 800 and 1200 Euros per month. |
| Residence permits | International students can apply for permanent residence after completing 5 years in the country with legal residence status. |
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What You'll Learn
- Work permit requirements for international students in Iceland
- Work hours and income for international students in Iceland
- Iceland's post-study work visa options
- Iceland's labour shortages and employment opportunities for international students
- Cost of living and expenses for international students in Iceland
Work permit requirements for international students in Iceland
International students in Iceland are allowed to work while they are studying. However, the work permit requirements vary for students depending on whether they are EEA/EFTA citizens or non-EEA/EFTA citizens.
Work Permit Requirements for EEA/EFTA Citizens
Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA), European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and the Faroe Islands do not require a work permit to work in Iceland. They are also allowed to stay in Iceland without a special permit for up to three months from the time of their arrival. However, if they plan to stay longer and look for work, they can stay for up to six months, after which they must register with Registers Iceland.
Work Permit Requirements for Non-EEA/EFTA Citizens
International students who are non-EEA/EFTA citizens need to apply for a work permit to work legally in Iceland. They are allowed to work up to 15 hours per week during the school year. To obtain a work permit, non-EEA/EFTA citizens must meet the following requirements:
- Complete an application form with all the relevant details.
- Provide a copy of their passport, which must be valid for at least 90 days after the date of the work permit expiration.
- Submit proof of graduation or other documents justifying their education and providing details about it.
- Show proof of insurance with the required coverage.
- Have a residence permit as a student in Iceland for the duration of their course.
- For researchers, hold a residence permit as a skilled worker and have a registered employer in Iceland at their university or research institute.
- Meet the eligibility criteria for the post-study work permit, including completing their education program or degree in Iceland.
Non-EEA/EFTA citizens can also apply for a post-study work visa extension of up to six months to look for employment opportunities after graduation. This visa application must be submitted to the Directorate of Immigration and can be one of the following three types:
- Temporary Work Permit for Expert Knowledge: This is for jobs that require specialist or expert knowledge.
- Temporary Work Permit for Labor Shortages: Issued when there is a lack of specific skills in certain fields, allowing foreign nationals to fill those roles.
- Qualified Professionals Visa: Granted to individuals who can prove that they can perform their job better than Icelandic or EEA citizens.
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Work hours and income for international students in Iceland
International students in Iceland are allowed to work while they study. However, work hour restrictions and requirements differ based on the citizenship of the student. International students with EEA/EFTA citizenship do not need a work permit and do not have work hour restrictions. On the other hand, non-EEA/EFTA citizens are allowed to work up to 15 hours per week during the school year and must apply for a work permit.
The work permit process for non-EEA/EFTA citizens involves applying to the Directorate of Immigration for a six-month visa extension or a six-month permit for job-seeking. The application requires several documents, including a completed application form, a copy of the passport, graduation certificate or other educational documents, and insurance. Additionally, non-EEA/EFTA citizens must have completed their graduation, held a residence permit as a student, and met other rules and regulations to qualify for the post-study work permit.
Iceland has a flexible labour market, with employment contracts being verbal or written. Written contracts are mandatory within two months of employment if the employee works for more than one month and more than eight hours a week. Wages are typically paid directly into the worker's bank account, with collective agreements stating that wages are paid monthly on the first weekday after the end of the month. The average maximum weekly working time over a four-month reference period should not exceed 48 hours, including overtime.
The cost of accommodation for international students in Iceland varies depending on the location and type of housing. On-campus student flats are available at most universities, costing around ISK 92,634 ($727). Off-campus accommodation is typically more expensive, ranging from ISK 108,073 ($848) to ISK 200,695 ($1,575).
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Iceland's post-study work visa options
Iceland offers several post-study work visa options for international students who wish to remain in the country after completing their studies. The specific visa requirements and options available depend on the student's nationality and the type of work they seek. Here is an overview of the post-study work visa options in Iceland:
- EU/EEA Students: Students who are citizens of countries within the European Economic Area (EEA) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) do not require a work permit to remain in Iceland after graduation. They are allowed to stay in the country for up to three months without any special visa requirements. After this period, they must register their work and stay with the relevant authorities.
- Non-EU/EEA Students: Students from outside the EU/EEA region will need to apply for a work visa or an extension of their student visa after completing their studies. This application is made to the Directorate of Immigration, and there are several visa options available:
- Qualified Professionals Visa: This visa is for individuals who can demonstrate that they possess skills or qualifications that are lacking in the Icelandic labour market. Applicants must provide evidence of vocational training at a university level or an approved technical standard. They must also prove that they can perform the job better than an Icelandic or EEA citizen.
- Temporary Shortage of Labourers Visa: When there is a shortage of workers in specific fields, Iceland may offer temporary work permits to foreign nationals. This visa can only be renewed once, and applicants must meet other eligibility criteria, such as having completed their degree in Iceland and held a student residence permit.
- Athletes Visa: Iceland offers visas to athletes, coaches, and sports professionals associated with the National Olympic teams, clubs, or the Sporting Association of Iceland.
- Temporary Work Permit for Expert Knowledge: This visa is for individuals with specialized knowledge or expertise.
- Temporary Work Permit for Students: A temporary permit that allows students to work while studying.
General Requirements: Regardless of the specific visa type, there are several general requirements that applicants should be aware of:
- Applicants must have a valid passport, proof of qualifications or expertise, and secure financial means to support themselves during their stay.
- A clean criminal record and comprehensive health insurance are often required for visa applications.
- Processing times may vary, so it is recommended to submit applications at least four weeks before the current permit expires.
- Applicants may remain in Iceland while their application is being processed, as long as their stay in the Schengen Area does not exceed 90 days in a 180-day period.
It is important to note that the information provided here may not be exhaustive, and specific requirements or procedures may change over time. Therefore, it is always advisable to refer to official government sources and seek up-to-date information from the relevant Icelandic authorities when planning your post-study work visa application.
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Iceland's labour shortages and employment opportunities for international students
Iceland has a unique natural environment and is one of the most innovative countries in Europe and the safest worldwide. The country's unemployment rate is quite low, and international students comprise 5% of the student population in Icelandic higher education.
International students with EEA/EFTA citizenship do not need a work permit and can work without restrictions. Non-EEA/EFTA citizens must apply for a work permit and can work up to 15 hours per week during the school year. International students can also apply for a post-study work visa to stay in the country and look for employment opportunities. EU/EEA students do not need a work permit for stays of up to 3 months, after which they must register their work and stay. Non-EU/EEA students must apply for a work visa or a student visa extension from the Directorate of Immigration. There are three types of post-study work visas for non-EU/EEA students: Qualified professionals visa, Temporary Work Permit for Expert Knowledge, and Temporary Work Permit for Labor Shortages.
Iceland has a simplified work visa process, making it an attractive destination for job seekers worldwide. The country offers a vibrant work culture and diverse opportunities, and the right of foreign nationals to work is governed by the Foreign Nationals' Right to Work Act No. 97/2002 and Regulation No. 339/2005. There are skill shortage jobs in Iceland, especially in Reykjavik, the country's economic, cultural, and education hub. These shortages are due to the high demand for certain skills that local talent cannot meet. International job seekers can find opportunities in sectors such as aluminum smelting, where companies are permitted to hire internationally due to the lack of local staff.
To find skill shortage jobs in Iceland, individuals can explore several official government websites and platforms, including Vinnumálastofnun (Directorate of Labour), which provides job vacancies, details about work permits, and skill shortages. The Directorate of Labour advises sending speculative applications to companies, as positions may not always be advertised. Social media platforms such as LinkedIn can also help build a network and discover opportunities. Most companies accept job applications via email, and employers typically look for a concise overview of achievements and skills in a one-page CV and cover letter. Interviews are usually face-to-face but can be conducted remotely if the candidate is out of the country.
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Cost of living and expenses for international students in Iceland
The Nordic countries are known for being expensive, and Iceland is no exception. The average cost of living in Iceland is around ISK 179,758 without rent. However, these living costs can vary significantly depending on the specific neighbourhood and individual lifestyle preferences. For reference, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Reykjavik is around 200,000 ISK ($1650). Many students in Iceland opt for dorms or shared accommodation, with dorms known as "corridors" in the country.
The cost of food in Iceland can be high, especially when dining out. A typical meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages around ISK 1,650. For students who prefer to cook at home, monthly grocery expenses can vary widely depending on diet and consumption habits but generally align with Iceland's overall high cost of living. Expect to budget for groceries between ISK 30,000 to ISK 50,000 per month.
Utility expenses in Iceland are moderate, with prices for heating, cooling, and cleaning management at ISK 13,793 per month. However, internet connection is much more expensive than in other European countries, and these costs can vary with the size of the home and seasonal usage. For a standard 85m^2 apartment, the monthly heating, electricity, and gas fee is around ISK 13,800.
Entertainment in Iceland can be expensive due to the high cost of living. International students can work up to 20-22.5 hours per week during the academic year, which can help manage living expenses. The minimum hourly wage in Iceland for basic jobs in supermarkets, restaurants, and service sectors is around ISK 120 per hour. During summer breaks, students can work full-time, providing further opportunities to save up.
Tuition fees at Icelandic higher educational institutions differ between institutions and depend on whether they are state-owned or private. Public universities do not charge tuition fees, although they require an annual registration or administration fee. Undergraduate fees for international students are no more than €5000 per year, while PhD programmes are paid positions with competitive salaries. Scholarships are also available to help manage living expenses, such as the UI Doctoral Grants Fund and the University of Iceland Research Fund.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students are allowed to work in Iceland. However, there are different rules for students from different countries. International students with an EEA/EFTA citizenship will not need a work permit and don’t have work restrictions. Those who are non-EEA/EFTA citizens do have to apply for a work permit and are allowed to work up to 15 hours per week during the school year.
Iceland offers various work permits tailored to different employment needs. Some of the work permits available for international students in Iceland include:
- Temporary Work Permit for Expert Knowledge
- Temporary Work Permit for Labor Shortages
- Temporary Work Permit for Students
The requirements for getting a work permit in Iceland depend on the type of permit and the individual's situation. Here are some general requirements:
- Employment contract: A signed agreement outlining job responsibilities and terms
- Proof of qualifications: Evidence of relevant expertise and credentials
- Labour Market Test: Demonstrate the inability to find suitable EEA/EFTA candidates
- Proof of foreign employment or self-employment (for the long-term remote work visa)
- Meet minimum income thresholds (for the long-term remote work visa)
- Comprehensive health insurance (for the long-term remote work visa)
- Clean criminal record (for the long-term remote work visa)
Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time in Iceland. The number of hours they can work varies between 15 hours per week and 22 hours per week, depending on the source and their student status. During holidays, students can work up to 40 hours per week.
The living costs for international students in Iceland vary depending on the city and the student's lifestyle. On average, students can expect to spend between 800 and 1200 Euros per month, with accommodation being the largest expense, ranging from 600 to 800 Euros per month.
