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Guides · Iceland

Work permit renewal in Iceland

Written from published rules on 26 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Directorate of Immigration (Útlendingastofnun).

Renewing a work permit in Iceland generally involves applying for a renewal of the associated residence permit for employment purposes. The application is typically submitted to the Directorate of Immigration before the current permit expires.

Your timing

It is generally advisable to apply for renewal approximately 4-6 weeks before the current permit's expiry date. This allows sufficient time for processing and potential requests for additional information, avoiding a lapse in legal status. Processing times can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the volume of applications.

Start 30 days ahead

To ensure continuous legal residence and employment, and account for processing times.

The process

  1. 1Confirm eligibility for renewal, which typically requires meeting the same conditions as the initial permit, including continued employment.
  2. 2Gather all necessary documents, including a renewed employment contract, proof of salary, and valid travel documents.
  3. 3Complete the appropriate renewal application form for a residence permit based on employment.
  4. 4Pay the application fee as specified by the Directorate of Immigration.
  5. 5Submit the application and all supporting documents to the Directorate of Immigration, either online or in person if an appointment is required.
  6. 6Respond promptly to any requests for further information from the Directorate of Immigration during the processing period.
  7. 7Receive notification of the decision and, if approved, arrange to collect the new permit card.

What to bring

  • Completed application for renewal of residence permit (often the same form as the initial application or a specific renewal form)
  • Valid passport or travel document (original and copy)
  • New employment contract or confirmation of continued employment, specifying terms and duration
  • Proof of salary/income (e.g., recent pay slips, tax returns)
  • Proof of adequate health insurance (unless covered by Icelandic social security)
  • Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental agreement)
  • Receipt of paid application fee
  • Passport-sized photograph meeting official requirements

Who handles it

Directorate of Immigration (Útlendingastofnun)

https://www.utlendingastofnun.is/en/individuals/residence-permits/renewal

A fee is typically charged for the processing of a residence permit renewal application. The exact amount should be confirmed on the Directorate of Immigration's official website.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure the renewal application is submitted before the current permit expires to avoid potential complications or a lapse in legal status.
  • All required documents must be correctly translated into Icelandic or English by a certified translator, if not originally in one of those languages.
  • Any changes in employment or personal circumstances since the last permit was granted may affect the renewal process and should be disclosed.
  • Appointments may be necessary for in-person submission or biometric data collection; check the Directorate's current requirements.

Sources

Other documents in Iceland

Work permit renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

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