Foster care means the assigning of special foster parents by child protection services to take care of the child for at least 3 months. The aim of foster care is to ensure the child is raised and cared for within a family as best fits its needs. More about foster care from the National Agency for Children and Families.
Couples and cohabitants must apply together.
Application process
Applicant applies for authorization to the Quality and Supervisory Authority of Welfare (GEV) and returns supporting documents
The GEV checks if the necessary information and data are included in the application
A request for comment is sent to the National Agency for Children and Families
The National Agency for Children and Families will invite the applicant to a course and will submit a review to GEV.
The GEV takes a decision on the case and informs the applicant and the National Agency for Children and Families about the result.
Application supporting documents
Permission to obtain a criminal record certificate for all household members 15 years of age and older. The form must be printed out and completed.
Medical certificate from a general practitioner confirming the applicant's physical and mental health
Tax returns for the past two years. The returns can be accessed electronically from the Iceland Revenue and Customs service web (if new application, otherwise tax return in the last year if renewal)
Laws and regulations applicable to the license to operate:
- Legislation on Quality and Supervisory Authority of Welfare No. 88/2021
- Child Protection Act No. 80/2002
- Regulation on foster care no. 804/2004
Service provider
Quality and Supervisory Authority for Welfare