Your Ultimate Guide to Settling Down in Greenland – Tips and Tricks

Are you an adventurous spirit looking for a new life experience? Have you ever considered moving to Greenland? In this blog post, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about how to settle in Greenland. From visas and job opportunities to housing and cultural adaptation, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started!

Visas and Work Permits

The first step in settling in Greenland is obtaining the necessary visas and work permits. As Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, the immigration laws for Greenland are the same as for mainland Denmark. If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you do not need a visa or work permit to live and work in Greenland for up to three months. However, if you plan to stay for a longer period, you will need a residence permit.

If you are not a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you will need a visa to enter Denmark and a work permit to work in Greenland. You can apply for both at your local Danish embassy or consulate. The process can take several months, so be sure to plan ahead.

Job Opportunities

Greenland’s economy revolves around fisheries and mining, so these are the main industries offering job opportunities. However, there are also positions available in education, administration, tourism, and healthcare. The majority of jobs are located in the capital city of Nuuk, but there are also opportunities in other smaller towns and villages.

If you do not have a specific job offer, you can still apply for a job seeker visa, which allows you to stay in Greenland for up to six months to search for work.

Housing

Finding a place to live in Greenland can be challenging, especially if you are looking for affordable housing in the larger cities. Most of the housing in Greenland is owned by the government or private companies, and there is limited availability of privately-owned housing. It is recommended to begin your housing search before you arrive in Greenland, as the process can be time-consuming.

If you are a student, you can apply for housing through your educational institution. There are also temporary housing options available, such as hostels and Airbnb accommodations.

Cultural Adaptation

Greenland has a unique culture and way of life, and it can take time to adapt to the local customs and traditions. The official languages of Greenland are Greenlandic and Danish, and a basic understanding of these languages is helpful in daily life. However, many people in Greenland also speak English.

The climate in Greenland is also a factor to consider, as the winters are long and harsh. It is important to prepare for the weather conditions and invest in warm clothing and gear.

Conclusion

As you can see, settling in Greenland requires a significant amount of planning and preparation. From obtaining visas and work permits to finding housing and adapting to the local culture, there are many factors to consider. However, for those who are adventurous and open to new experiences, living in Greenland can be a unique and rewarding opportunity. So, are you ready to make the move?