Social security and residence abroad

Most students who stay temporarily in another country do not move their legal domicile and therefore remain covered by social insurance in Iceland. Exceptions are students who go to the Nordic countries.

A student who has legal domicile in Iceland and stays abroad while studying is insured during the course of study if he is not insured by the social security system of the country of study.

If a student takes up permanent residence or gainful employment in the country of study, he must report this to the National Registry, and is then no longer covered by Icelandic social insurance.

The Nordic Region

Those who go to study in Denmark, Finland, Norway or Sweden move their legal domicile to the country of departure. They are covered by the national social security rules of the country in question.

The aid is granted according to the rules in the country concerned and can vary between countries.

Studying in EEA countries and Switzerland

Students in Europe, outside the Nordic countries, can stay in Iceland during their studies and thus have the right to social security. Students must, however, be familiar with the rules of the country to which they are travelling.

Students and their families are entitled to medical care where necessary from the national public health system in accordance with the EEA rules on social security.

Applications must be submitted for legal domicile for students abroad.

Studying outside the EEA

Students studying in non-EEA countries and their families can maintain their legal residence in Iceland during their studies and maintain their right to social security.

Applications must be submitted for legal domicile for students abroad.