Residence permit renewal

Students must demonstrate appropriate academic achievement in order to renew their residence permit on the basis of their studies.

• Confirmation of satisfactory academic performance.

• Confirmation of enrollment in full studies (30 ECTS per semester). It is important to include information on whether the student is enrolled for one or two semesters.

The following documents must accompany an electronic application for renewal of a residence permit on the basis of employment.

This also applies when an applicant for the renewal of a residence permit is working in Iceland but is not exempt from the requirement for a work permit. This includes individuals with a residence permit on the basis of studies, family reunification and legitimate purpose.

• Application for an appropriate work permit and employment contract, see further information on the website of the Directorate of Labour.

Holders of residence permits for humanitarian reasons and special ties with the country have the right to work in Iceland without a work permit.

The residence permit of a student who has completed university studies in Iceland, may be renewed for up to three years from the date of graduation in order for the graduate to seek employment in his/her field of expertise.

A necessary supporting document with such an application is:

• Certified copy of a graduation certificate from a university in Iceland.

If applicable:

• Certified copy of a graduation certificate from an undergraduate program at a university abroad, such as BA, BS, BEd or BFa, or a similar program.

An electronic application for renewal of a residence permit for a child must be accompanied by the signed consent of the custodial parent that does not fill in the application. If the parent filling out the application has sole custody of the child, this document does not have to accompany the application.

• Parent consent for a residence permit renewal application for a child