Why this site exists

Companion Iceland exists because people took the time to help me when I first arrived in Iceland. Through the Icelandic Red Cross, I met people who answered my questions, guided me through unfamiliar systems, and made sure I didn’t have to figure everything out alone. Their kindness changed my experience of starting a new life here.

Not everyone arrives with that kind of support. Some people don’t know who to ask, where to begin, or how to understand systems that affect their work, healthcare, housing, or rights. Companion Iceland is my way of passing that support forward by sharing practical, reliable information that helps people make informed decisions with confidence.

We do not sell anything. We do not collect personal data. We are not affiliated with any government office. When we write about official processes we always link to the authority that has the final word.

If something here is wrong, outdated, or missing, write to us at hello@yourcompanion.is and we will fix it. The site is meant to grow with the community.

If you are visiting Iceland or planning a short trip, our sister site Fylgja Iceland has practical guidance for travellers, short stays, and first-time visitors.

Companion Iceland is for people moving to Iceland and for people living here. Fylgja Iceland is for people passing through. The two sites link to each other so that whichever side of Iceland you are on, you can find the right companion.

The site is currently written in English only. If you need it in another language, use Google Translate or your browser's translate tool. Proper translations are on the way, but we want the English guidance to be right before we translate it.

Settling into a new country is exhausting. We try to write the way we wish someone had spoken to us when we arrived: factual, calm, without urgency unless it is actually urgent.