This article was originally published on June 13, 2022, and was updated on June 21, 2022, to reflect new information.
June 21, 2022 Update: The government of Iceland will no longer issue residence permit cards or passports by mail beginning June 20, 2022. Applicants will be required to pick up their cards or passports at the Directorate of Immigration office or request that the card or passport be sent to the offices of the district commissioners outside of the country’s capital area.
Applicants will receive notification via text message when their card or passport is ready to be obtained. The government stated that this decision was made to protect personal information better when issuing and sending these documents.
Original Post From June 13, 2022
Key Points
- Online platform launched for certain applicants seeking to renew residence permits in Iceland
Overview
The government of Iceland launched an electronic platform for renewing residence permits on May 12, 2022. This will allow applicants to submit the renewal application and make payments online.
Eligible applicants will be permitted to apply at least four weeks before the expiry date of their previous permit. These applicants must obtain an electronic certificate to complete the renewal process.
The processing time is expected to take a maximum period of 90 days if all satisfactory documents are submitted. Once the renewal is approved, the government will send a notice of approval to the applicant and request that the applicant schedule an appointment with the Directorate of Immigration or an office of a District Commissioner for the identification picture to be taken. The residence permit card will then be sent by mail to the applicant’s home address.
Holders of an au pair placement permit, working holiday/youth mobility permit or a volunteer work permit are not eligible for residence permit renewals. For additional instructions, check here.
What are the Changes?
On May 12, 2022, the government of Iceland launched an electronic platform that will allow eligible applicants to submit residence permit renewal applications and payments online. The government highlighted that this change aims to improve Iceland’s immigration services, increase efficiency and simplify the procedures for eligible applicants.
Looking Ahead
Continue to check the government of Iceland’s website for the latest updates and information.
Written by: Jessie Butchley, Global Immigration Writer, Envoy Global
Source: The Directorate of Immigration, Iceland
