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Long-stay visas (Type D)

Icelandic Residence Permit for Students

Residence permit for non-EEA nationals admitted to full-time study, recognised research, an exchange programme or technical training at an Icelandic institution.

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Under review — check current rules

The 70,000 ISK fee should be reverified against the current island.is student residence-permit page, as fees change periodically.

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)
Covers
Full-time university study, research collaboration, exchange, internships, technical studies
Application deadlines
1 May for the autumn semester; 1 October for the spring semester
Processing fee
70,000 ISK
Paid by bank transfer; verify the current amount
Financial requirement
Must show secure means of financial support

Who it's for

  • Non-EEA/EFTA students admitted to a recognised Icelandic study programme
  • Postgraduate researchers working with Icelandic institutions
  • Exchange students and interns
  • Students in recognised technical or vocational studies

Requirements

  • Confirmed admission to a recognised full-time programme
  • Valid passport
  • Secure means of financial support for the stay
  • Confirmation of health insurance
  • Criminal-record certificate
  • Application submitted by the relevant semester deadline

What you can do

  • Live in Iceland for the duration of the approved study programme
  • Renew the permit while continuing eligible full-time study
  • Undertake limited work alongside studies subject to the applicable rules

How to apply

Confirm eligibility, gather the required documents (passport copy, criminal record, proof of health insurance and proof of admission), complete the application form and pay the 70,000 ISK fee by bank transfer.

Submit the application by post or drop box to the Directorate of Immigration before the semester deadline (1 May for autumn, 1 October for spring), then wait for processing.

A refusal can be appealed to the Immigration and Asylum Appeals Board within 15 days.

Documents

  • Completed application form
  • Copy of valid passport
  • Proof of admission to a recognised programme
  • Evidence of secure financial support
  • Confirmation of health insurance
  • Criminal-record certificate
  • Receipt for the processing fee

Frequently asked questions

  • Applications for the autumn semester must reach the Directorate of Immigration by 1 May, and spring-semester applications by 1 October.

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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