Steps to Obtain a Family Visa for Elderly Dependents in Iceland
Introduction:
Iceland offers a family visa for elderly dependents who wish to join their close family members residing in the country. This visa allows eligible individuals to live and reside with their family in Iceland for an extended period. Obtaining a family visa for elderly dependents involves a multi-step process with specific requirements and documentation.
Eligibility Requirements:
- The applicant must be 67 years of age or older.
- The applicant must be a close family member of an Icelandic citizen or a foreign national legally residing in Iceland with a valid residence permit.
- The applicant must be financially dependent on their family member in Iceland and unable to support themselves.
- The applicant must have a valid passport and meet the general health and character requirements for a visa.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Completed family visa application form
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Birth certificate and marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of financial dependency (e.g., bank statements, pension documents)
- Medical certificate confirming good health
- Police clearance certificate from the applicant’s country of origin
Step 2: Submit Application to the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration (Útlendingastofnun)
The family visa application should be submitted to the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration (Útlendingastofnun) in person or by mail. The application fee is currently 6,500 ISK (approximately 40 EUR).
Step 3: Interview and Document Verification
After submitting the application, the applicant may be invited for an interview with an immigration officer. The purpose of the interview is to verify the applicant’s identity, eligibility, and the supporting documents.
Step 4: Decision and Visa Issuance
The Directorate of Immigration will review the application and make a decision based on the submitted documents and interview. If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a family visa, which is typically valid for two years and can be renewed thereafter.
Additional Considerations:
- The applicant must maintain financial dependency on their family member in Iceland throughout the duration of their visa.
- The family member in Iceland must have sufficient income and housing to support the applicant.
- The applicant may be required to undergo a medical examination in Iceland.
- The applicant may need to learn basic Icelandic language skills for integration purposes.
Timeline:
The processing time for a family visa for elderly dependents can vary depending on the caseload and individual circumstances. Generally, it takes around 3-6 months to complete the process.
Conclusion:
Obtaining a family visa for elderly dependents in Iceland allows eligible individuals to reunite with their close family members and receive support in their later years. By following the outlined steps and providing the required documentation, applicants can navigate the process smoothly and secure a visa to live in Iceland with their loved ones.