Asylum and Refugee Rights
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Icelandic Acts of the Althingi, statutory instruments, and official guidance.
What is this right?
Iceland provides international protection to those fleeing persecution:
- How to apply: In person at the Directorate of Immigration, to police (including at Keflavík Airport), or at the reception centre at Egilsgata 3, Reykjavík.
- Non-penalisation: You will not be penalised for entering Iceland illegally if you arrived directly from a region where you feared persecution and present yourself promptly.
Types of protection:
- Refugee status (1951 Convention) — 3-year permit.
- Subsidiary protection (death penalty, torture, armed conflict) — 2-year permit.
- Humanitarian grounds — 1-year renewable permit.
Rights during the process: Free legal aid, assigned housing, healthcare (including 3 free mental health appointments), weekly financial support, right to apply for a work permit, and school enrolment for children aged 6–16.
Appeal: 15 days to appeal to the Immigration and Asylum Appeals Board (5 days for "safe country" applicants). Free legal aid for the appeal. Deportation is paused during the appeal.
When does it apply?
- You are in Iceland and fear persecution, torture, or serious harm if returned to your home country.
What should you do?
- Apply in person at the Directorate of Immigration, police, or the reception centre.
- You will receive a free lawyer to assist you throughout the process.
- If your application is rejected, appeal within 15 days — you have the right to remain during the appeal.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't delay — apply as soon as possible after arrival.
- Don't miss the appeal deadline — 15 days (or 5 days for safe country nationals) is very short.
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