Iceland suffers from a labor shortage and has many open positions in the areas of construction, cleaning, healthcare, energy and more!

The growing labor shortage in Iceland is creating new vacancies for foreign workers in different sectors.

Iceland, known for its extreme weather conditions and high quality of life, is facing a growing challenge: labor shortage. Despite its low unemployment rate, which hovers around 3%, and being one of the safest and most peaceful countries in the world, the country increasingly needs foreign workers to meet demand in key sectors. This situation has generated several vacancies for professionals from abroad who are willing to contribute to the continued development of the Icelandic economy.

Economy and labor market in the context of labor shortages

With a strong and diversified economy, Iceland maintains an unemployment rate of around 3%, indicating a situation of full employment.

The country is known for its political stability and vibrant economy, and is also a popular destination for tourists, with almost a million visitors per year.

The Icelandic economy is driven primarily by tourism, but also by sectors such as aluminum smelting, fish processing, geothermal and hydroelectric energy, and medical and pharmaceutical products.

In recent years, Iceland has demonstrated an increase in demand for foreign workers. Currently, around 13% of the country's workforce is made up of foreigners.

However, the scenario is changing, especially for unskilled workers. EURES data indicates that vacancies for these professionals may decrease in the next 3 to 5 years.

On the other hand, there is a growing demand for qualified professionals, with emphasis on specific areas that are on the rise.

Professions with labor shortages

For those who want to work in Iceland, it is essential to know the areas with the greatest labor shortage. Occupations most in need of foreign workers include:

1. Tourism and Hospitality: With a robust tourism sector, the demand for tourism and hospitality professionals remains high. This includes everything from tour guides to hospitality and customer service staff.
2. Geothermal Energy Sector: Iceland is a leader in geothermal energy, and there is a constant need for experts and technicians in this sector to support the development and maintenance of infrastructure.
3. Aluminum smelter: The aluminum smelting industry is a key part of the Icelandic economy, with a severe labor shortage.
4. Health care: The need for healthcare professionals is significant, with vacancies available for doctors, nurses and other medical professionals.
5. Information Technology: With the advancement of technology, the demand for IT professionals has increased, ranging from software developers to cybersecurity specialists.
6. Construction: The construction sector is expanding, creating opportunities for workers in a variety of specialties, from engineers to construction workers.
7. Cleaning Jobs: With the growth of population and industry, the need for cleaning services has also increased, offering vacancies for workers in this area.

Requirements for foreigners

To work in Iceland, foreigners must meet some specific requirements. Non-European Union citizens must obtain a work permit and a residence permit.

This process is usually initiated by the employer and involves obtaining a kennitala, which is a national identification number essential for carrying out any transaction in the country, such as opening a bank account and receiving wages.

Also, many empregos in Iceland with a labor shortage require knowledge of English, although learning the basics of Icelandic can improve social integration and expand job opportunities.

English-speaking professionals have an easier time finding jobs, but making the extra effort to learn Icelandic can be advantageous for both your daily life and your career.

How and where to search for open jobs in Iceland?

Job Sites: Use online platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed and Iceland-specific websites to find vacancies.

Icelandic Embassy in Brazil: The embassy can provide up-to-date information about the job market and assist with immigration-related issues.

Social networks: Use platforms like Facebook to find groups and communities of Brazilians in Iceland, where you can get valuable tips and information.

In addition to the EURES website, which brings together the best job vacancies open in Europe.

Click here to access.

Iceland is seeking to fill a number of vacancies in different sectors due to labor shortages.

For foreigners interested in working in the country, opportunities are especially available in the areas of tourism, geothermal energy, aluminum smelting, healthcare, information technology, construction and cleaning services.

Meeting legal requirements and having a good command of English are fundamental steps to taking advantage of these opportunities.