Residence card issuance restricted

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Icelandic government has announced that it is restricting the issuance of residence cards.

Key Points:

• Icelandic authorities are limiting the number of residence card the country is issuing to foreign nationals until at least the fall of 2023.
• Instead of receiving a residence card, foreign nationals will receive a letter confirming the issuance of a residence permit, containing information on the validity of the residence and work rights.
• The letter will not be valid for reentering Iceland; foreign nationals who are planning to travel abroad must request a residence card by submitting travel documentation to utl@utl.is.

BAL Analysis: Icelandic authorities have limited the issuance of residence cards because of supply issues caused by an unexpected increase in residence permit applications throughout 2022. Individuals who are planning travel abroad should do so well in advance to avoid complications or delays when requesting a residence card.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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