Digital Nomad Life in Keflavik, Iceland

"Expats in Keflavik often appreciate the local culture for its strong sense of community and camaraderie. They admire the locals' resilience and adaptability in dealing with the harsh weather conditions. The Icelandic tradition of storytelling is also something that expats find fascinating, as it provides a deep insight into the country's history and folklore. Many expats also appreciate the locals' respect for nature and their efforts to preserve the environment. The local cuisine, particularly seafood, is another aspect of the culture that expats enjoy. Lastly, the local music scene, which is vibrant and diverse, is something that many expats in Keflavik find appealing," said one expat in Keflavik.

"Expats in Keflavik often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Icelandic is a complex language with unique phonetics and grammar, making it difficult for foreigners to learn and understand. Another challenge is the weather. The harsh and unpredictable climate, especially during the winter months, can be a significant adjustment for those not used to such conditions. The high cost of living in Iceland can also be a challenge for expats. Everything from groceries to housing tends to be more expensive compared to other countries. The cultural emphasis on independence and self-reliance can also be difficult for some expats. Icelanders value their personal space and privacy, which can sometimes come across as aloofness to newcomers. Lastly, the slower pace of life and the lack of hustle and bustle that one might be used to in larger cities can be a challenge for some expats. This, coupled with the long, dark winters, can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness," explained one expat living in Keflavik, Iceland.

"The type of residency documents or visas you need to stay in Keflavik depends on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. If you are a citizen of a country within the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to enter Iceland. However, if you plan to stay for more than three months, you must register your right of residence with the Directorate of Immigration. If you are a non-EEA citizen and plan to stay in Iceland for more than three months, you will need to apply for a residence permit. The type of permit you need depends on the purpose of your stay, such as work, study, or family reunification. If you are visiting Iceland for less than 90 days and are a citizen of a country that is part of the Visa Waiver Program, you do not need a visa. However, if your country is not part of this program, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa. Regardless of your nationality, if you plan to work in Iceland, you will need a work permit in addition to your residence permit. It's important to note that all these documents must be obtained before you arrive in Iceland. Remember that immigration rules can change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information from the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration or the nearest Icelandic embassy or consulate," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Keflavik.

"In Keflavik, it's considered rude to show up unannounced at someone's home. Always make sure to call ahead and arrange a visit. Avoid comparing Iceland to other Scandinavian countries. Icelanders are proud of their unique culture and heritage and may not appreciate the comparison. Do not litter or disrespect the environment. Icelanders are very environmentally conscious and take great pride in their country's natural beauty. Avoid discussing whaling. It's a controversial topic in Iceland and can lead to heated debates. Do not expect everything to run on a strict schedule. Icelanders have a more relaxed attitude towards time, which can be frustrating for visitors used to punctuality. Avoid being overly loud or boisterous in public places. Icelanders tend to be reserved and value their personal space. Do not assume everyone speaks English. While many Icelanders are fluent in English, it's polite to learn a few basic phrases in Icelandic. Avoid making jokes about elves or trolls. Many Icelanders take their folklore seriously and may not appreciate the humor. Do not overtip. Tipping is not customary in Iceland as service charges are usually included in the bill. Avoid walking on moss-covered lava fields. The moss is delicate and can take decades to regrow if damaged," said one person in Keflavik.