Reykjavik pond in winter
Job hunting
Job hunting in Iceland without speaking Icelandic can be tricky. While Google Translate has significantly improved, it only helps somewhat. Most likely, positions that match a non-Icelandic speaker will already be advertised in English (or both languages), so checking the job announcements is worthwhile.
Since Iceland is such a small country, identifying the companies that match your skill set is often worth identifying. Usually, it is best to contact them directly, follow their website for job notifications, or reach out to them through LinkedIn or their HR contact. While there are no guarantees for finding a job, these steps are invaluable for networking and getting your "foot in the door."
Spouses/partners
If your spouse or partner is relocating to Iceland with you and is not a citizen of the EEA, EFTA, or Faroe Islands, they must apply for a residence permit on family reunification grounds. All spouses granted a residence permit on these grounds must also apply for a work permit should they wish to work in Iceland. Work permits are applied for before or after arriving in Iceland. However, some spouses may be required to apply for a permit before entering Iceland to fulfill the minimum financial sustenance requirement.
Please be aware that you must not start employment before receiving the necessary work permit. Work permits are non-transferable and only valid with the employer sponsoring the permit application.
Processing periods can take 2-6 months.
Online job resources
These are some of the leading websites where jobs are advertised in Iceland:
Alfred This site works well in the app version, listing various jobs, mostly in Icelandic, with some in English. Upload your CV and personal info to apply for jobs through the app.
HH ráðgjöf Mostly jobs that do not require a university degree, all in Icelandic.
Job.is A wide variety of job listings and many specialist jobs. Upload your CV and personal info to apply and to be noticed for jobs through the app.
Morgunblaðið One of Iceland's most popular newspapers. Mostly in Icelandic.
Northstack This site has a finger on the pulse of Icelandic start-ups, innovation, and venture capital news in English. Occasional job postings too.
Reykjavik City Mostly jobs for caretakers, kindergartens, working with people with special needs or pensioners, teachers, special education, paramedics, etc. Mostly in Icelandic.
Starfatorg Advertisements for doctors, teachers, and administrative staff in the public sector, and more. Mostly in Icelandic.
Störf A variety of jobs in Icelandic and English.
Tvinna Mostly specialist jobs related to design, computers, and data, with creative and technical positions, in Icelandic and English.
Vinnumálastofnun Jobs in all sectors, with most local jobs announced in Icelandic and EURES jobs advertised in English.
Recruitment Agencies
In Iceland, recruitment agencies are often tasked with the hiring process for large companies for many positions that are not advertised. Contacting these agencies may be the best strategy to see if they have any positions fitting your expertise. They know the ins and outs of the marketplace and usually have extensive contacts.
European jobs
EURES is a European job portal with job listings for thousands of positions. Narrow the results by entering "Iceland" in the box "Enter a keyword."
