How to Move to Greenland: Step-by-Step Guide

Moving to Greenland is possible, but it requires planning and the correct legal basis for entry and residence.

Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and follows Danish immigration rules for residence and work permits. Greenland is also outside the Schengen Area, so entry and stay rules can differ from standard Schengen expectations.

This guide walks through the relocation process in a practical order, from eligibility and permits to housing, shipping, and what to do after arrival.

Step 1: Confirm your legal basis to live in Greenland

Start by identifying which category you fall into. Your citizenship and purpose of stay matter.

  • Nordic citizens: can usually live and work in Greenland without a permit.
  • Most other citizens: typically need a residence and work permit for long-term relocation.

Related pages:

Step 2: Decide where you want to live in Greenland

Greenland is large, but most towns are small and isolated. Before you apply for anything, decide what kind of life you want and what location is realistic.

  • Nuuk: most jobs, most services, highest housing pressure.
  • Ilulissat: tourism hub, seasonal opportunities, limited housing.
  • Other towns: fewer jobs, stronger community feel, limited services.

If you are choosing locations based on jobs first, you can skip this step and return later after you have an employer.

Step 3: If you are not exempt, secure a job offer first

For most people, the realistic relocation route is employment. Many long-term permits depend on a job offer from an employer in Greenland.

Useful next step:

What to check in your job offer

  • Job title and responsibilities are clearly described
  • Salary and working hours are specified
  • Contract duration is stated
  • Housing support is clarified (if provided)

Step 4: Choose the correct application route and prepare documents

Permit applications are handled through Danish authorities (SIRI) based on Greenland approval. Your employer may help, but you remain responsible for providing correct information and documents.

Common documents needed (varies by case):

  • Passport (valid for the intended period)
  • Signed employment contract or official job offer
  • Any forms required for Greenland permits
  • Supporting documents requested in the application instructions

Start here:

Step 5: Apply and wait for approval before relocating

In most cases, you should not relocate to Greenland expecting to “fix paperwork later”. Start the application process early and follow the official instructions for submission.

Processing times and fees can change. Check official sources before submitting and do not rely on old screenshots or forum posts.

Step 6: Plan housing early

Housing is one of the most difficult parts of moving to Greenland, especially in larger towns. Plan housing before you arrive whenever possible.

Practical housing checklist:

  • Confirm whether your employer provides housing
  • If not provided, start searching as early as possible
  • Prepare a budget for higher rent and deposits
  • Have a backup plan (temporary accommodation for the first weeks)

If you will build a housing section later, this page should link to it. For now, keep this as a planning reminder.

Step 7: Budget for relocation and cost of living

Greenland is expensive because many goods are imported and logistics are complex. Build a budget that includes both one-time moving costs and monthly living costs.

One-time costs to plan for

  • Permit application fees (if applicable)
  • Flights to Greenland
  • Initial housing costs (deposit, first month)
  • Warm clothing and gear
  • Shipping personal belongings (if needed)

Monthly costs to plan for

  • Rent and utilities
  • Food and household items
  • Local transportation
  • Internet and mobile services

If you plan tools, add them here later:

Step 8: Decide what to bring and how to ship your belongings

Shipping to Greenland can be expensive and slow. Many people relocate with minimal luggage first, then ship essentials after settling.

Read:

Practical packing strategy

  • Carry essential documents and electronics with you
  • Bring quality cold-weather basics
  • Ship bulky non-essentials only if truly needed

Step 9: Prepare for arrival logistics

Before you fly, make sure you have a realistic arrival plan.

  • Where you will stay in the first days
  • How you will reach your town (flights, transfers)
  • How you will access money (cards, cash, banking)
  • How you will communicate (SIM, roaming, internet)

Step 10: After arrival, complete local registration and setup

After arriving, you will typically need to complete practical setup tasks. Exact steps depend on your status and where you live.

Common tasks include:

  • Registering your address (if required)
  • Setting up healthcare access (if applicable)
  • Getting a local phone number
  • Setting up banking and payments
  • Understanding local transport and services

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Assuming Schengen rules apply. Greenland entry rules are separate.
  • Relocating without legal approval. For many cases, permits must be approved first.
  • Underestimating housing. Limited supply can delay your move.
  • Budgeting like in mainland Europe. Costs can be higher due to imports.
  • Ignoring language reality. Long-term work often benefits from Danish or Greenlandic skills.

Related pages

Last updated: January 2026