Icelandic Language Barrier Limits Job Opportunities for Foreign Doctors

2026-03-11 - 11:46

Foreign doctors seeking work in Iceland’s healthcare system often struggle to secure positions due to insufficient Icelandic language skills, according to a senior physician at Landspítali. Speaking to RÚV about recruitment challenges, pulmonologist and chief physician of specialist basic training Inga Sif Ólafsdóttir said that language proficiency is the primary obstacle preventing qualified overseas doctors from entering clinical roles. What's the Story? Foreign-trained doctors in Iceland often cannot enter clinical roles due to insufficient Icelandic language skills, according to the specialist training leadership at Landspítali Doctors trained outside the EU/EEA must complete a six-month supervised adaptation period before receiving a full medical licence in Iceland Ukrainian otolaryngologist Daria Peremot has lived in Iceland for nearly four years but works in a service job despite holding a medical licence The National University Hospital (Landspítali). Photo: Facebook. Healthcare Hiring Challenges While Iceland’s healthcare system is open to international staff, she said effective communication is essential for patient safety. “We at Landspítali require B2 language skills in Icelandic, which is on par with what is expected in our neighbouring countries, by which I mean Norway and Denmark. We have made these requirements for B2 language skills and that has actually been what has stopped most people from entering our adjustment period.” Staff at Landsspítalinn hospital. Photos: Golli Doctors from European Union and European Economic Area countries can have their qualifications recognised through the national health authorities. However, those trained outside the EEA must complete a six-month supervised adaptation period before receiving a full medical licence. “This adaptation period is six months and the person concerned will not receive a medical license until after they have completed that period. This period is to assess the individual’s clinical skills, whether they are compatible with the standards that exist in Iceland – and it is very important that this is done well.” The issue was highlighted by Ukrainian ear, nose and throat specialist Daria Peremot, who told a recent television report she has been unable to find work as a doctor despite passing certification exams and obtaining a licence. After nearly four years in Iceland, she currently works in a service job. Landspítali CEO Runólfur Pálsson has also called for clearer information and support for foreign-trained healthcare professionals seeking work in Iceland. Efforts to expand language training may also be required.