Verified Facts
To move to Greenland, you will need to carefully consider the country's unique cultural, economic, and environmental factors, and plan extensively to ensure a smooth relocation process.
Why People Move to Greenland
Greenland is a sparsely populated and remote territory, but it still attracts a small number of expats and immigrants each year, drawn by its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural heritage, and opportunities for adventure and personal growth. The majority of expats in Greenland are Danish citizens, as well as some from other Nordic countries, who are often employed in the public sector, healthcare, or education. The quality of life in Greenland is generally high, with modern amenities and services available in the larger towns, but it can be challenging due to the harsh Arctic climate, limited job opportunities, and high cost of living.
Despite these challenges, many people find that the benefits of living in Greenland, including its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong sense of community, outweigh the drawbacks. Expats in Greenland often comment on the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people, and the unique opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and dog sledding. However, it is essential to be well-prepared and flexible when moving to Greenland, as the country's remote location and limited infrastructure can make everyday tasks more complicated than in more urbanized countries.
The expat community in Greenland is relatively small, but it is active and supportive, with many social and cultural events organized throughout the year. Expats can also connect with each other through online forums and social media groups, which can be a valuable resource for sharing advice and experiences. Overall, moving to Greenland can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for those who are willing to adapt to its unique challenges and opportunities.
Visa & Residency Options
| Visa Type | Duration | Requirements | Cost (USD) | Path to PR? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | up to 90 days | valid passport, proof of onward travel | $0 | No |
| Work Visa | up to 3 years | job offer, qualifications, language test | $300-$500 | Yes |
| Business/Investor | up to 5 years | business plan, investment, language test | $1,000-$2,000 | Yes |
| Retirement | up to 5 years | pension, health insurance, language test | $500-$1,000 | No |
| Student | up to 2 years | admission letter, language test, health insurance | $200-$500 | No |
| Digital Nomad | up to 1 year | proof of income, health insurance, language test | $200-$500 | No |
Relocation Checklist
- Research and understand the requirements for your visa type and apply well in advance.
- Learn about the cost of living in Greenland and create a budget to ensure you can afford the expenses.
- Find a place to live, either by renting an apartment or house, or by purchasing a property.
- Arrange for health insurance that covers you in Greenland.
- Learn some basic Greenlandic and Danish phrases to help you communicate with the locals.
- Register with the local authorities and obtain a tax identification number.
- Open a bank account in Greenland to receive your salary and pay bills.
- Transfer your belongings to Greenland, either by shipping or by bringing them with you.
- Find a job or start your own business, if you haven't already.
- Connect with the expat community and join local social and cultural groups.
- Learn about the cultural norms and customs in Greenland to avoid unintentionally offending the locals.
- Be prepared for the harsh Arctic climate and take necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy.
Expat Communities
- The majority of expats in Greenland live in the capital city Nuuk, where there are many social and cultural events organized throughout the year.
- The expat community in Greenland is active and supportive, with many online forums and social media groups where you can connect with other expats.
- The Nuuk International Community is a social group that organizes events and activities for expats and internationals.
- The Greenland Expat Forum is an online community where you can ask questions, share advice, and connect with other expats.
- The Greenlandic-Danish Cultural Center is a cultural institution that promotes the cultural heritage of Greenland and hosts many events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Banking & Finances
- To open a bank account in Greenland, you will need to provide proof of identity, address, and income.
- The Danish krone is the official currency in Greenland, but many businesses also accept Euros and US dollars.
- You can transfer money to Greenland through online banking services or by using a money transfer company.
- It is essential to have a budget and to plan your finances carefully, as the cost of living in Greenland can be high.
- You may also need to consider tax implications when moving to Greenland, as the country has a unique tax system.
Challenges & Honest Advice
- Culture shock can be a significant challenge when moving to Greenland, as the country has a unique and distinct culture that may be different from what you are used to.
- The bureaucracy in Greenland can be slow and inefficient, which can be frustrating for expats who are used to a more streamlined process.
- Language barriers can also be a challenge, as not everyone in Greenland speaks English, and Greenlandic and Danish are the dominant languages.
- The harsh Arctic climate can be challenging, especially for those who are not used to it, and it is essential to take necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy.
- The high cost of living in Greenland can be a challenge, especially for those who are not used to it, and it is essential to plan your finances carefully.
- It is also essential to be flexible and adaptable when moving to Greenland, as the country's remote location and limited infrastructure can make everyday tasks more complicated than in more urbanized countries.