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The Ísland.is App

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Digital Iceland Frontpage

Digital Iceland

Less hassle, more support: a simpler application for unemployment benefits

16th February 2026

The new unemployment benefits application, now available on Ísland.is, has been developed to make the process simpler and reduce the burden on people in vulnerable situations.

Photo/Government of Iceland

The new application was developed in collaboration between the Directorate of Labour and Digital Iceland, with software teams from Origo and Advania contributing to its development. The aim of the project is to simplify the process and ease the strain on those applying.

Key improvements for users

  • Clearer guidance
    The application is designed as a single, coherent process in which applicants are guided step by step. This reduces uncertainty and minimises the need to seek assistance from customer service.

  • Support to return to the labour market
    The application is not only about unemployment benefit payments. Job seeking is a core part of the process, and the aim is to connect applicants earlier with measures and support that can help them return to the labour market.

  • Relevant questions
    The questions have been simplified and appear at appropriate points in the application process. Applicants are asked only for information directly related to their circumstances — whether concerning entitlement or support with job seeking. This saves time and makes the process more focused.

  • The system supports applicants
    Where possible, information is retrieved automatically from other public systems. This speeds up the process, simplifies completion and reduces the likelihood of input errors that could delay processing.

  • Clearer communication
    The text in the application has been simplified. Rights and obligations are explained in plain language, making it easier to understand what is required and why. The aim is for applicants to be able to complete the process without assistance.

  • Save and return later
    It is now possible to save the application partway through, pause, and continue later without losing any information. This allows applicants to complete the process at their own pace.

“The updated application is both simpler and more user-friendly, and it also makes processing easier for our staff. By making better use of technology, retrieving data automatically and removing unnecessary barriers, we can better support people wherever they are,” says Leó Örn Þorleifsson, division manager at the Directorate of Labour.

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