How to Register a Company in Iceland as a Non-resident? 

Introduction

If you’re exploring international expansion or seeking a strategic European base for your business, registering a company in Iceland as a non-resident could be a game-changing move. Known for its political stability, low corporate tax rates, and access to the European Economic Area (EEA), Iceland offers a uniquely favorable environment for foreign entrepreneurs and investors. 

Why Iceland? 

Iceland consistently ranks among the top countries for ease of doing business and quality of life. Its business-friendly policies, highly educated workforce, and robust infrastructure make it a magnet for global entrepreneurs. Iceland continues to attract foreign investment across sectors such as renewable energy, biotechnology, tourism, and fintech. 

Here are some standout advantages for non-residents considering Icelandic company formation: 

• Low corporate tax rate: Iceland offers a competitive 20% corporate tax rate, lower than in many EU countries. 

• EEA market access: As an EEA member, Iceland provides seamless access to European markets without being part of the EU. 

• Stable economy: Iceland boasts low inflation, low unemployment, and a resilient economy built on sustainable industries like fishing, energy, and tourism. 

• Transparent legal framework: Iceland has a clear, efficient regulatory system that supports foreign ownership of companies. 

• High quality of life: With its clean environment, low crime rate, and strong social systems, Iceland is a comfortable and secure place to live and do business. 

Who Is This Blog For? 

This guide is crafted for: 

• Non-resident entrepreneurs looking to start a company in Iceland as a non-resident. 

• Foreign investors interested in Iceland company formation. 

• Business owners seeking to expand into the European market via a stable and innovative jurisdiction. 

• Digital nomads and remote founders exploring international incorporation options. 

Whether you’re launching a tech startup, setting up a holding company, or expanding your consultancy, this blog will walk you through every step of company registration in Iceland as a non-resident. 

What You’ll Learn 

This comprehensive guide will cover: 

•   Legal structures available to non-residents 

•   Step-by-step registration process 

•   Required documentation 

•   Taxation and compliance obligations 

•   Costs and timelines 

•   Common challenges and how to overcome them 

Why Choose Iceland to Start a Company as a Non-Resident? 

Given below are the reasons why Iceland is an ideal choice for company registration-  

Strategic Advantages: Geography, Economy, and Regulation 

Iceland’s location between North America and Europe makes it a prime gateway for international trade and digital services. Its robust infrastructure, high-speed internet, and educated workforce support innovation across sectors like fintech, creative industries, and IT services. 

The country’s political stability, low corruption, and transparent regulatory framework further enhance its appeal. Iceland ranks high in global indices for economic freedom and competitiveness, making it a safe and efficient jurisdiction for foreign entrepreneurs. 

Taxation Basics: Low Corporate Tax Rate 

One of Iceland’s most attractive features is its low corporate tax rate of 20% for private limited companies (ehf.), which is significantly lower than many EU countries. This flat rate applies to net profits and is complemented by no capital duty, no wealth tax, and no restrictions on profit repatriation, making it ideal for international founders. 

EEA/EFTA Membership: Seamless Market Access 

As a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), Iceland offers unrestricted access to the EU Single Market. This means non-resident entrepreneurs can: 

• Trade goods and services across 30 EEA countries. 

• Benefit from harmonized regulations and standards. 

• Move capital freely for business operations. 

• Set up subsidiaries or branches in other EEA states. 

This is especially valuable for digital businesses, SaaS providers, and creative agencies targeting European clients. 

Ease of Doing Business and Legal Protection 

Iceland’s business registration process is streamlined and digital, with most steps completed online. Foreign investors benefit from: 

• Strong legal protections for property and contracts. 

• Efficient dispute resolution mechanisms. 

• Transparent public records and corporate governance standards. 

The government actively promotes foreign investment through R&D incentives, startup grants, and sector-specific support, particularly in tech, tourism, and creative industries. 

Investment Rules for Non-residents 

Foreign ownership is generally unrestricted in Iceland, with clear guidelines under the Act on Investment by Non-residents in Business Enterprises No. 34/1991. This law defines a non-resident as any individual or entity domiciled abroad and outlines permitted investment types, disclosure requirements, and exceptions (e.g., fisheries, energy). 

Key highlights: 

• Full foreign ownership is allowed in most sectors. 

• No minimum capital requirement for certain company types. 

• No residency requirement for shareholders or directors (though a local representative may be needed). 

A Fit for Creative Content Writers and Service Businesses 

Iceland’s digital-first economy and emphasis on innovation make it a natural fit for content creators, consultants, and remote service providers. With English widely spoken and a strong demand for international expertise, non-resident creatives can: 

• Offer services across the EEA without additional licensing. 

• Benefit from low taxes and minimal bureaucracy. 

• Tap into Iceland’s growing startup and freelance ecosystem. 

Whether you’re launching a boutique agency, a remote writing studio, or a digital consultancy, starting a company in Iceland as a non-resident offers flexibility, credibility, and access to a thriving European market. 

Understanding the Legal Forms of Companies in Iceland 

When planning to register a company in Iceland as a non-resident, choosing the right legal structure is essential. Iceland offers several business entity types, each with its own requirements, benefits, and limitations. Here’s a breakdown of the most relevant options for foreign entrepreneurs. 

1. Private Limited Company (Einkahlutafélag / “ehf.”) 

This is the most common and practical form for non-residents. An ehf. is suitable for small to medium-sized businesses and offers limited liability to shareholders. 

•   Minimum share capital: ISK 500,000, fully paid at incorporation. 

•   Ownership: Can be 100% foreign-owned. 

•   Management: No residency requirement for shareholders or directors, but a local representative may be needed for certain filings. 

•   Flexibility: Ideal for startups, freelancers, and service providers. 

This structure is especially popular among digital entrepreneurs and creative professionals due to its simplicity and low entry barriers. 

2. Public Limited Company (“hf.”) 

Designed for larger enterprises, especially those planning to list shares publicly. 

•   Minimum share capital: ISK 4,000,000. 

•   Governance: Requires a board of directors and more complex reporting. 

•   Use case: Suitable for large-scale ventures or businesses seeking external investment. 

While robust, the hf. Structure is less common among non-residents due to its higher capital and administrative requirements. 

3. Branch of a Foreign Company 

Foreign companies can establish a branch in Iceland without creating a separate legal entity. 

•   Registration: Must be filed with the Directorate of Internal Revenue. 

•   Requirements: Submit company documents, pay registration fee, and appoint a local representative. 

•   Use case: Ideal for expanding existing businesses into Iceland without full incorporation. 

This option is useful for companies testing the Icelandic market or managing local operations from abroad. 

4. Self-employed Business, Partnerships, and Others 

These include sole proprietorships, general partnerships, etc. 

•   Sole proprietorships: Simple to set up, but offer no liability protection. 

•   Partnerships: Require at least two partners and shared liability. 

These forms are typically reserved for local residents or small-scale operations. 

Best Option for Non-residents: Private Limited Company (ehf.) 

For most foreign entrepreneurs, the ehf. structure offers the best balance of flexibility, affordability, and legal protection. Its low capital requirement (ISK 500,000) and straightforward setup make it ideal for: 

• Freelancers and consultants. 

• Creative agencies and content studios. 

• Tech startups and remote-first businesses. 

Residency and Local Director Requirements 

Non-residents can fully own and manage Icelandic companies. However: 

• Electronic registration requires an Icelandic electronic ID, which non-residents may not possess. 

• Local representative: Often needed for tax filings and legal correspondence. 

• Nominee services: Available through professional firms to meet local compliance. 

These requirements are manageable and do not prevent foreign ownership or control. 

Non-resident Requirements & Restrictions: 

Understanding the legal definition and regulatory boundaries for non-residents is crucial when planning an Icelandic company formation for non-resident investors. Iceland’s laws are generally welcoming to foreign entrepreneurs, but certain conditions apply depending on your country of origin and business sector. 

Who Is a “Non-resident” Under Icelandic Law? 

According to the Act on Investment by Non-residents in Business Enterprises No. 34/1991, a non-resident is defined as: 

“An individual residing abroad, irrespective of nationality, a company, institution, fund or other legal person domiciled abroad, a foreign state or state enterprise, as well as a business enterprise under foreign control.” 

This broad definition ensures that both individuals and entities based outside Iceland are covered under the investment framework. 

Residency/Domicile Restrictions for Founders 

While non-residents can own and operate Icelandic companies, founding a Private Limited Company (ehf.) may require at least one founder to be a resident of Iceland or a citizen/resident of an EEA, EFTA, or OECD country. This requirement helps ensure regulatory alignment and accountability. 

If you’re from outside these regions, you may need to: 

• Appoint a local representative or nominee director. 

• Choose a legal form that permits full foreign ownership (e.g., branch office). 

• Work with a professional incorporation service to meet compliance. 

Implications for Non-EEA/EFTA/OECD Founders 

If you’re a non-resident from outside the EEA/EFTA/OECD, here’s what you should check before proceeding: 

• Legal form: The ehf. structure may still be viable, but you’ll need to verify founder eligibility or use nominee services. 

• Local directors: Some filings may require a resident director or representative. 

• Auditing: Depending on turnover and company size, annual audits may be mandatory. 

• Electronic ID: You’ll need an Icelandic ID number (kennitala) and an electronic ID for digital filings. 

These requirements are manageable but must be planned early to avoid delays. 

Sector-specific Restrictions 

Certain sectors in Iceland, especially banking, insurance, fisheries, and energy, have additional licensing and ownership restrictions. For example: 

• Banking and insurance: Require regulatory approval from the Financial Supervisory Authority (FME) 

• Energy and natural resources: May involve environmental permits and local ownership rules 

• Fisheries: Foreign ownership is heavily restricted 

If your business falls into one of these categories, consult a legal advisor or incorporation specialist to ensure compliance. 

Banking Considerations for Non-residents 

Opening a bank account in Iceland as a non-resident involves several steps: 

• Icelandic ID number (kennitala): Required for all banking services. 

• Electronic ID: Needed for online account setup and verification. 

• In-person appointment or app-based onboarding: Depending on the bank. 

Major banks like Landsbankinn, Íslandsbanki, and Arion Banki offer services to non-residents, but identity verification and documentation requirements vary. 

Step-by-Step: How to Register a Company in Iceland as a Non-Resident 

Step 1: Choose & Check the Company Name 

Before you register a company in Iceland as a non-resident, you must select a compliant and unique company name. 

• Naming rules: For a Private Limited Company, the name must end with “ehf.” (Einkahlutafélag). It must not be too similar to existing registered names or misleading in nature. 

• Search the registry: Use the Icelandic Company Register or services like Info-clipper to check name availability. 

• Branding tip: Ensure the name aligns with your international brand and complies with Icelandic naming conventions. 

Step 2: Decide on Legal Form, Share Capital & Board Structure 

For most non-residents, the Private Limited Company (ehf.) is the preferred legal form due to its simplicity and low capital requirement. 

• Minimum share capital: 

• Private Limited (ehf.): ISK 500,000, fully paid before registration. 

• Public Limited (hf.): ISK 4,000,000, with stricter governance requirements. 

• Board structure: 

• No residency requirement for directors, but non-residents may need a system ID number (kennitala) via Form RSK 17.62. 

• Tip for service businesses: Start with minimal capital and a lean board to simplify setup. 

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents 

To start a company in Iceland as a non-resident, you’ll need to compile and submit several legal documents: 

• Required forms: 

• RSK 17.21 – Notice of establishment 

• Memorandum of Association 

• Articles of Association 

• Minutes of the founding meeting 

• RSK 17.27 – Notification of beneficial owners 

• Language: Most documents must be in Icelandic. Translation services may be required. 

• System ID: Non-resident directors must apply for a system ID using RSK 17.62 

• Tip: Hire a local lawyer or accountant to ensure compliance and smooth processing. 

Step 4: Deposit Share Capital & Open a Bank Account 

Before registration, the share capital must be deposited into an Icelandic bank account. 

• Capital deposit: Must be fully paid and documented before submission. 

• Bank account setup: 

• Requires identity verification, business purpose, and sometimes a business plan. 

• Non-residents may need to visit the bank or use international onboarding services. 

• Tip: Choose a bank experienced with foreign clients (e.g., Landsbankinn, Arion Banki) and ensure multi-currency support. 

Step 5: Submit Application to the Register of Enterprises 

Once documents are ready and capital is deposited, submit your application to the Directorate of Internal Revenue. 

• Submission: Via email or electronically through Skatturinn’s portal. 

• Processing time: Typically, 3–5 working days for electronic submissions. 

• Registration fee: Approximately ISK 131,000 for a private limited company. 

• Outcome: You’ll receive a company identification number and registration certificate. 

Step 6: Post-Registration Formalities 

Once you’ve successfully registered your company in Iceland as a non-resident, there are several post-incorporation obligations to fulfill to ensure legal compliance and operational readiness. 

• VAT registration: Mandatory if annual turnover exceeds ISK 2,000,000. 

• Employment tax: Register as an employer if hiring; handle withholding and payroll filings. 

• Beneficial ownership: File Form RSK 17.27 and maintain statutory registers. 

• Accounting: Set up bookkeeping, prepare annual accounts; some companies require a resident auditor. 

• Compliance: Ensure timely tax filings, AGMs, and updates to the company register. 

Step 7: Practical Considerations for Non-Residents 

Running an Icelandic company from abroad is entirely feasible, especially for digital-first and service-based businesses. However, there are a few practicalities to consider. 

• Remote management: You can operate from abroad with a local representative. 

• Registered address: Required—use a virtual office if needed. 

• Banking: Choose banks with multi-currency support and remote onboarding options. 

• Taxation: Check for double-taxation treaties and local tax residence rules. 

Costs, Timelines & Key Figures: 

Understanding the financial and time commitments is crucial when planning to register a company in Iceland as a non-resident. 

• Registration fee: Approximately ISK 131,000 for a Private Limited Company (ehf.). 

• Minimum share capital: ISK 500,000, fully paid before registration. 

• Timeline: Electronic registration typically takes 3–5 working days, provided all documents are in order. 

Other Cost Considerations 

• Bank account setup: May involve fees and documentation for non-residents. 

• Legal/accounting services: Essential for compliance and filings. 

• Translation costs: Most documents must be in Icelandic. 

• Auditing: Required for certain company sizes or sectors. 

Tip: Budget ahead and compare with your home country’s incorporation costs. Iceland’s currency is the Icelandic Krona (ISK), which may fluctuate against major currencies like USD or EUR, important for international businesses. 

Taxation, Reporting & Compliance for Non-Resident Companies 

Iceland offers a straightforward tax regime, but non-residents must be aware of reporting and cross-border implications. 

• Corporate tax rate: Flat 20% for private limited companies. 

• VAT regime: 

• Standard rate: 24%. 

• Registration threshold: Generally, ISK 1,000,000–2,000,000 annual turnover. 

• Auditing requirement: For some company types, at least one auditor must reside in Iceland. 

Reporting Obligations 

• Annual accounts and financial statements. 

• Beneficial owner registration. 

• Tax returns and VAT filings (if applicable). 

Double Taxation & Substance Risk 

• Check treaties: Ensure your home country has a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with Iceland. 

• Substance management: If strategic decisions are made abroad, your company may be taxed in your home country. 

• Tip: Consult a cross-border tax advisor to avoid unexpected liabilities. 

Special Considerations & Common Pitfalls for Non-Residents 

Starting a company in Iceland is feasible for non-residents, but certain challenges must be managed proactively. 

Common Issues 

• Language barrier: Legal documents must be in Icelandic; translation adds time and cost. 

• Local address: Required for registration and correspondence. 

• Local director/auditor: May be needed depending on company type. 

• Banking hurdles: Non-residents face stricter KYC; banks may request proof of business activity. 

• Currency risk: Operating in ISK can affect profitability if your revenue is in foreign currencies. 

• Compliance costs: Ongoing reliance on Icelandic service providers adds to overhead. 

• Tax residence risk: If managed entirely from abroad, your company may trigger tax obligations elsewhere. 

Example Pitfall 

• Failure to register beneficial owners or missing filing deadlines can lead to penalties. 

Advice: Work with a trusted Icelandic advisor (lawyer/accountant), maintain clear records, and plan ahead for compliance and tax strategy. 

Practical Checklist for Non-Residents to Start Now: 

Use this checklist to streamline your Icelandic company formation: 

1. Decide on your business model and jurisdiction fit. 

2. Choose legal form (ehf. recommended) and check name availability. 

3. Engage an Icelandic legal/accounting advisor. 

4. Prepare documents (memorandum, articles, etc.); arrange translations. 

5. Open a bank account and deposit share capital. 

6. Submit registration to the Icelandic company register. 

7. Post-registration: apply for VAT, tax ID, and set up bookkeeping. 

8. Maintain compliance: annual accounts, beneficial owner updates, tax filings. 

9. Monitor currency exposure, banking setup, and home-country tax implications. 

Why Use a Service Provider (like Enterworld) & How We Can Help 

For non-residents, navigating Iceland’s legal, linguistic, and regulatory landscape is smoother with expert support. At Enterworld, we specialize in helping foreign entrepreneurs establish and manage companies in Iceland and globally. 

What We Offer 

• Company formation: Legal structure setup, document drafting, translations 

• Bank account assistance: Liaising with Icelandic banks for non-resident onboarding 

• Tax registration: VAT, corporate tax, and beneficial owner filings 

• Post-incorporation compliance: Bookkeeping, auditing, annual filings 

Why It is Crucial? 

• Avoid delays and penalties. 

• Ensure full legal compliance. 

• Mitigate currency and tax risks. 

• Operate confidently from abroad. 

Registering a company in Iceland as a non-resident is not only feasible but it’s a strategic move for entrepreneurs seeking access to the EEA market, a stable economy, and a transparent legal system. With the right planning, legal structure, and local support, you can launch and operate your Icelandic business confidently from abroad. 

FAQs About Register a company in Iceland