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Iceland – Finding Employment

Iceland is a small country with a unique job market, known for its focus on renewable energy and sustainable industries. In this article, we will provide an overview of the job market in Iceland, workplace culture, major recruitment agencies and job sites, typical CV structure, and job application process. We will also cover the process of transferring qualifications from your home country to Iceland.

Job Market in Iceland

The job market in Iceland is relatively small and competitive, with a focus on the country’s key industries such as renewable energy, fisheries, and tourism. Salaries in Iceland are generally higher than in some other European countries, but the cost of living is also high.

Workplace Culture in Iceland

The workplace culture in Iceland is generally informal and egalitarian, with a focus on collaboration and work-life balance. English is widely spoken in Iceland, and proficiency in Icelandic may be required for some jobs.

Recruitment Agencies and Job Sites in Iceland

There are several recruitment agencies and job sites in Iceland that can help you find employment. Some of the major recruitment agencies include:

Some of the major job sites in Iceland include:

Typical CV Structure in Iceland

The typical CV structure in Iceland is similar to that of other countries, with a focus on education and professional experience. Here is an example of a typical CV structure in Iceland:


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  • Personal information: Name, contact information, date of birth, nationality
  • Education: List your academic qualifications, starting with the most recent. Include the name of the institution, degree obtained, and date of graduation. You may also include any relevant coursework or research.
  • Work experience: List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. Include the name of the company, job title, dates of employment, and a detailed description of your responsibilities and achievements.
  • Skills: List any relevant skills, such as language proficiency, computer skills, or specific industry knowledge.
  • References: Include the names and contact information of two or three professional references.

Job Application Process in Iceland

The job application process in Iceland typically involves submitting a CV and cover letter to the company or organization you are interested in. Some companies may also require you to complete an application form or provide additional documentation, such as academic transcripts or certificates.

If your application is successful, you may be invited to an interview, which could be in person or conducted via video call. Interviews in Iceland tend to be quite informal, and it is important to be prepared to discuss your skills and experience in detail.

Transferring Qualifications in Iceland

If you are seeking employment in Iceland and have qualifications from your home country, you may need to have them recognized in Iceland in order to be eligible for certain jobs. The process of transferring qualifications in Iceland is overseen by the Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture.

To have your qualifications recognized in Iceland, you will need to submit several documents, including your academic transcripts and certificates, as well as proof of identity and residency. The Ministry will review your qualifications and determine whether they are equivalent to those required for the profession you are seeking.

In some cases, you may also need to take additional courses or exams in order to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a particular field.