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Long-stay visas (Type D)

Icelandic Permanent Residence Permit

An indefinite settlement permit for non-EEA nationals granted after a qualifying period of continuous legal residence in Iceland.

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Under review — check current rules

The qualifying residence period (commonly four years), any Icelandic-language-course condition, and the fees (60,000 / 30,000 / 8,000 ISK) should be reverified on the current island.is permanent-residence page, as requirements and fees change.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Iceland government website before you apply.
On this page
Issued by
Directorate of Immigration (Útlendingastofnun)
Status
Indefinite right of residence
Card validity
Residence-permit card issued for 5 years, then renewed
Processing fee
60,000 ISK for adults; 30,000 ISK for children under 18
Verify current amounts
Card renewal fee
8,000 ISK for a new card on expiry

Who it's for

  • Non-EEA/EFTA nationals who have lived legally in Iceland for the required qualifying period on temporary permits
  • People wanting to settle indefinitely without renewing purpose-specific permits
  • Family members of EEA/EFTA citizens and UK nationals who have completed five years of continuous legal residence (via their own EEA track)

Requirements

  • A qualifying period of continuous legal residence in Iceland (typically four years on temporary permits, subject to conditions)
  • A current, valid temporary residence permit at the time of application
  • Meeting the specific conditions set by the Directorate of Immigration (including, where applicable, completion of an Icelandic-language course)
  • Application submitted before the current permit expires
  • Payment of the processing fee

What you can do

  • Live in Iceland indefinitely without a purpose-specific temporary permit
  • Work freely without a separate work permit tied to one employer
  • Renew only the residence-permit card (every five years) rather than reapplying for status
  • Build toward eligibility for Icelandic citizenship

How to apply

Applications are submitted online through the official portal, which requires an electronic certificate for identification.

The processing fee (60,000 ISK for adults, 30,000 ISK for children under 18) is paid at the final step of the online application.

Apply before your current residence permit expires; processing takes considerably longer than an ordinary renewal. When the five-year card later expires, you simply book a photo appointment and pay 8,000 ISK for a new card.

Documents

  • Completed online application (with electronic certificate)
  • Proof of continuous legal residence for the qualifying period
  • Current valid residence permit
  • Where required, proof of completing an Icelandic-language course
  • Receipt for the processing fee

Frequently asked questions

  • The permit is indefinite, but the card is issued for five years. When it expires you book a photo appointment and pay 8,000 ISK for a new card rather than reapplying for the permit.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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