Residence permit based on work (expert knowledge, labour shortage, service contract) (Dvalarleyfi vegna atvinnu)
Residence permit based on work (expert knowledge, labour shortage, service contract) is a residence route in Iceland (Työ). Employer-specific; work permit from Directorate of Labour + UTL residence permit; expert = degree/specialist skills; pay per collective agreements. Fee ISK 80,000 (spouse 110,000, child 60,000, 2026). No self-employed, investor or financial-independence route for non-EEA.
Requirements at a glance
Spouse and children can usually be included. Permanent residence: after 4 years. Citizenship can be possible after about 7 years.
How holders are taxed
Worldwide income; foreign experts may get 25% of salary tax-exempt for first 3 yrs (approval needed).
Next steps
Check the official page for the current rules and fees, compare this route with the other programmes on the interactive map, and talk to a licensed immigration lawyer or authorised agent before applying.
| Luokka | Työ |
|---|---|
| Sijoitus | — |
| Maksut (perhe) | CHF 1'620 |
| Tulot / v | — |
| Varat | — |
| Väh. oleskelu | — |
| PR | 4 |
| Kansalaisuus | 7 |
| Työ | yes |
| Kelpoisuus | Non-EEA/CH nationals with Icelandic employer |
| Verot | Worldwide income; foreign experts may get 25% of salary tax-exempt for first 3 yrs (approval needed). |
| Tilanne | 2026-10 |
General information only — not tax, legal, immigration, investment or financial advice, and no client relationship. Figures are simplified, indicative and may be out of date. Always verify with the official authority and a licensed professional in the country concerned before acting. Partner links, if any, are marked and may earn us a fee.