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March 28th, 2024 at 05:03 am
Driving Jobs in Iceland with Visa Sponsorship For Foreigners ($19 – $28 an hour)
After entering the EU in 1994, Iceland’s economy expanded, making it simpler for expats to obtain job. Despite being particularly heavily struck by the 2008 economic crisis, Iceland appears to be on the verge of recovery.
Iceland Economy
Iceland’s economy follows the Scandinavian model of free markets and welfare states. Fishing, which accounts for 40% of export income, 12% of GDP, and 5% of employment, is the most important industry.
Before the 2008 financial crisis, life abroad in Iceland was favourable since unemployment was low, the economy was developing fast, and wages were evenly distributed. The crisis devalued the Icelandic Króna, and the government let the three largest banks fail, which was criticized. Iceland, on the other hand, has recovered greatly since receiving loans to restore its economy and start anew. The unemployment rate was 2.4% in 2021, similar to before the recession.
Biotechnology and software development have expanded the economy beyond fishing. Tourism is crucial; Iceland will have 4.5 times more visitors in 2021. Due to its position, the country possesses abundant hydropower and geothermal resources. These attract international investment, growing the economy.
How to Find a Job in Iceland
Expats who want to work in Iceland will need perseverance, patience, and possibly necessary certifications. It is essential to begin your job hunt before packing your bags; sites like EURES, for example, allow you to search for opportunities while also learning about the nation.
For expats, employment agencies (ráningarjónustur) are frequently the best solution. These services are frequently free for jobseekers and can assist ex-pats with specific expertise in finding their dream job. Registering with one or more agencies is a smart idea. You might also browse in the classifieds section of local newspapers like Morgunblai or Fréttablai; both newspapers have a specific employment section on Sundays; however, all job listings are in Icelandic.
Your local trade union (stéttarfélag) may also be able to assist. They are frequently up-to-date on current job openings in your industry. If all else fails, contacting a corporation with a speculative application is not a bad idea.
List of Driver Jobs in Iceland For Foreigners
1. Warehouse Delivery Driver
Responsibilities
- Makes safe and efficient deliveries of mattresses, foundations, and accessories to our customers.
- Assists in receiving freight, organizing, loading and unloading supplies, and driving trucks.
- Conducts weekly cycle counts and floor audits.
- Prepares products for delivery and customer pickup.
- Maintains outstanding service and representation of the firm.
- Compiles numerous reports using our inventory management system.
- Maintains knowledge of our POS, inventory tracking, and delivery systems.
- Works as part of a team to be efficient in the everyday duties that are requested.
- A willingness to study, and a positive attitude, are essential.
2. CDL Delivery Truck Driver
Responsibilities
- Operating a delivery truck to and from the delivery site.
- Unloading and stocking building materials on project sites as directed.
- Physically handling goods with a coworker.
- Overseeing the safe loading of the delivery vehicle to verify the order is correct and the products are of the greatest quality possible.
- Following all regulatory agency and company safety regulations.
- Following all driving laws and weight limitations.
- Supervising and expediting the unloading procedure at delivery sites to guarantee that all building materials are delivered safely and accurately.
- Responsible for site safety related to delivery.
- Distribute and arrange all necessary building materials exactly as indicated on the order ticket.
- Safely and effectively operate a boom, crane, or Gradall as needed, according to the customer’s individual requirements.
- Responsible for ensuring that the delivered goods are neatly put, ordered, and presentable as possible
- Responsibilities may involve warehouse operations, such as loading and unloading products onto or off of vehicles or into the warehouse as allotted.
- This position does not need over-the-road travel.
Iceland Visa Requirements
Expats who are not nationals of the EU or EEA and wish to work in Iceland must apply for a work and residency permit. The majority of expats should submit a permit application based on the professional qualifications they possess. To be eligible for this visa, you will need to demonstrate both specialized skills and a commitment to long-term employment. You will be eligible to apply for a D-visa if this permit is granted to you.
If you are merely looking for something temporary, the labour shortage presents the perfect opportunity. You are required to check that the profession in which you are interested is currently suffering from a shortage of workers before applying for this permission. If such is the case, this authorization will allow you to remain in Iceland for a predetermined amount of time. If you would like additional information on the visa requirements for Iceland, please check out our article on Moving to Iceland.
Iceland’s taxation system
Expats working in Iceland must pay the same taxes as Icelanders. Taxes are withheld from your pay automatically. Iceland’s income and municipal taxes are determined on the following levels as of 2021:
- 36.94% for monthly earnings of ISK 0-834,707
- 46.24% if your monthly income exceeds ISK 834,708
Anyone above the age of 16 can apply for a tax card, which provides taxpayers with a personal tax allowance. You must provide your tax card to your employer before receiving your first paycheck. You may profit from a double taxation arrangement between Iceland and your home country as a foreign citizen. To qualify for these tax breaks, you must be subject to full tax liability in your home country. More information on taxation in Iceland can be found at RSK Rkisskattstjóri.
Icelandic Business Etiquette
The good news is that English is a popular business language. Meetings must begin and end with a solid handshake. Because Iceland has flat hierarchies, you should treat all business partners equally, regardless of their professional status. Perfectionism and honesty are valued in Icelandic society, and people are known for being direct.
It’s crucial to arrive on time or a few minutes early in professional events. Basic manners should not be overlooked. Call your business partners immediately if you think you will be late. Using relevant, supporting, and direct information throughout a presentation is crucial. Since your Icelandic business partners want accurate and truthful information, you should not lie about anything.