Husavik

Country Coastal Beaches

Population: 2k

Cost of Living: High

Train Access: No

Bus Access: Yes (SBA-Norðurleið)

Weather: The weather in Húsavík is typically subarctic, with cool summers and cold winters, and the climate is influenced by the proximity to the Arctic Circle and the North Atlantic Ocean.

Húsavík is a small town in northeastern Iceland on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay. Known for its stunning natural beauty and as a prime location for whale watching, the town is often referred to as the whale watching capital of Iceland. Húsavík's picturesque setting is characterized by its colorful houses, the iconic wooden church Húsavíkurkirkja, and a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and rolling green hills. The town has a rich maritime history, which is celebrated in the Húsavík Whale Museum, one of its main attractions. Despite its small size, Húsavík offers a variety of activities for nature lovers, including horseback riding, hiking, and exploring the nearby geothermal areas and waterfalls. The town's harbor is a hub of activity, especially during the summer months when whale watching tours are in full swing. Visitors can also enjoy the GeoSea geothermal sea baths, which offer a unique bathing experience with views of the Arctic Circle. Húsavík's charm lies in its tranquil atmosphere, friendly community, and the harmonious coexistence of traditional Icelandic culture with modern tourism.

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Visa & Residency

Difficulty Obtaining: average

Popular Expat Visa/s: Residence Permit for Work, Residence Permit for Athletes, Residence Permit for Students

Popular Nomad Visa/s: There is no specific digital nomad visa for Iceland, but digital nomads can apply for a regular residence permit that allows them to live in Iceland for up to six months.

Obtaining a residency in Iceland involves several steps and the difficulty can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. The Directorate of (Útlendingastofnun) is the authority responsible for issuing residence permits in Iceland. The most common types of residence permits for expats include the Residence Permit for Work, Residence Permit for Athletes, and Residence Permit for Students. To apply for a Residence Permit for Work, an applicant must have a job offer from an Icelandic employer. The employer must demonstrate that the position could not be filled by a person from the EEA/EFTA. The application must include various documents, such as a criminal record certificate, a health insurance certificate, and proof of accommodation. For athletes, the Residence Permit for Athletes is available, which requires an employment contract with a sports club registered in Iceland and recognized by the Icelandic Sports and Olympic Committee. Students who wish to study at an Icelandic educational institution can apply for a Residence Permit for Students, provided they have been accepted into a program and can show proof of financial support and health insurance. The process can be considered average in terms of difficulty, but it requires careful attention to detail and complete documentation. Applications can be submitted online or through paper forms, and fees apply. Processing times can vary, but it generally takes around 90 days for a decision. It is important to apply well in advance of the intended move date to allow for any potential delays. For digital nomads, there is no specific visa category, but they can apply for a regular residence permit that allows them to live in Iceland for up to six months. This would require showing sufficient financial means, health insurance, and a detailed plan of their stay. Overall, while the process is bureaucratic and requires various documents, it is manageable with proper preparation and understanding of the requirements.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Húsavík is high, as is common in Iceland, due to its remote location, the cost of importing goods, and the general high standard of living in the country.

Weather

The weather in Húsavík is typically subarctic, with cool summers and cold winters, and the climate is influenced by the proximity to the Arctic Circle and the North Atlantic Ocean.

Restaurants in Husavik

Húsavík offers a variety of dining experiences, from the upscale Gamli Baukur restaurant located by the harbor, which serves Icelandic and international cuisine, to the cozy and moderately priced Salka Restaurant where guests can enjoy traditional Icelandic dishes. For those looking for a quick and casual meal, Naustið offers a selection of seafood, including their popular fish and chips. Café Hvalbakur is another casual spot, ideal for coffee and light snacks, and it's known for its delightful pastries and sandwiches.