International protection for children of refugees

A residence permit based on international protection as a refugee's child is granted for three years at most, but never longer than the permit of the person on whom the right is based.

Children granted international protection through family reunification, receive the same rights and obligations as the refugee they are reunited with in Iceland. The child is defined as a refugee, according to Icelandic law and international agreements, and can therefore not travel back home without the risk of the international protection and residence permit in Iceland being revoked.

International protection is granted on the presumption that it is unsafe for a refugee to return home. Going back would imply that the situation in the country of origin has improved and that the refugee is no longer in need of international protection.

Right to work

You can work in Iceland without a work permit.

Right to a travel document for refugees

You have the right to apply for a travel document for refugees for travel abroad.

Right to permit renewal

You must apply for a residence permit renewal before your permit expires. If you still need protection, your permit may be renewed.

Right to family reunification

The residence permit does not entail the right to family reunification.

Right to permanent residence permit

You can apply for a permanent residence permit after you have held a residence permit on grounds of international protection for four years.

You have to meet various requirements to get a permanent permit, including Icelandic language knowledge.

Another requirement is that you have not resided abroad for more than 90 days in total each year during the period of validity of the residence permit, counting from the date of issuance of the permit.