Working Holiday / Youth Mobility Permit (Dvalarleyfi vegna vinnufrís)
IcelandIceland•Europe
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Working Holiday / Youth Mobility Permit (Dvalarleyfi vegna vinnufrís)

Working Holiday

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

ISK kr 12,000

Stay Duration

Varies (Can apply twice for total of 24 months)

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Overview

One-year residence permit for citizens aged 18–30 from Andorra, Canada, Chile, Japan, or the UK to work and travel in Iceland, renewable for one additional year.

The Working Holiday / Youth Mobility Permit is a cultural exchange program established through bilateral agreements between Iceland and specific partner nations, including Andorra, Canada, Chile, Japan, and the United Kingdom. It is designed for young adults aged 18 to 30 who wish to experience life in Iceland for up to one year. The primary purpose of this permit is to allow participants to travel and explore the country, with the ability to take up temporary employment as a secondary activity to help fund their stay. It offers a unique opportunity for youth to gain international perspective and professional experience in a foreign environment.

Participants are expected to be self-sufficient, demonstrating that they have the financial resources to support themselves without relying on social assistance. The permit is a one-time opportunity, meaning individuals cannot re-apply once they have completed their year in Iceland. Because this is a temporary arrangement, it does not count toward permanent residency. Applicants must ensure they meet all health and financial requirements before arrival. This program fosters international cooperation and provides a structured way for young people to live and work in Iceland, contributing to the country's diverse cultural landscape while enjoying its unique natural beauty.

Eligible Nationalities (5)

AndorraAndorraCanadaCanadaChileChileJapanJapanUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must be a citizen of Andorra, Canada, Chile, Japan, or the United Kingdom.

Must be aged 18–30 at the time of application.

Must have a valid passport.

Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support oneself during the stay.

Must have valid health insurance.

Must not have previously participated in the Icelandic Working Holiday program.

Must intend to primarily holiday in Iceland, with work being an incidental part of the stay.

KEY CRITERIA

Min. Income

742,716 ISK/yr

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Age proof

Proof of funds

Criminal background check

Health insurance

Proof of accommodation

Application Process

1

Confirm qualification

Check if your country has bilateral agreement with Iceland

2

Gather documents

Passport, proof of funds, accommodation proof

3

Complete application

Submit paper application to Directorate of Immigration

4

Pay fee

ISK 12,000

5

Receive permit

Working Holiday permit granted

Application Forms

Go to application portal
Working Holiday Permit Application—

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