Living and working in Greenland
Greenland is known for having a fascinating and majestic landscape of snow, glaciers and ice sheets. And of course dog sledding! But what would it be like moving to Greenland?
Here we will try to give you a little more of a local point of view on the cool country.
Latest available jobs in Greenland
Currency
The Danish krone (DKK, kr) is the official currency in Greenland
Famous people
Some famous Greenlandic people are Nukaaka Coster-Waldau, Knud Johan Victor Rasmussen, and Rasmus Lyberth
Population
Greenland has ~56600 residents, many living in Nuuk and Sisimut
Typical food
Suaasat (stew of potato, onions, rice and seal), fish roe, roasted ptarmigan (poultry)
Avg. working week
Greenland has a 40 hour work week, 8 hours daily, 5 days a week
Location
Greenland is situated in the North Atlantic Ocean with no border countries. The capital city is Nuuk
Languages
The official language is Greenlandic, Klaallisut, and they use Latin script
Healthcare
Residents of Greenland has free healthcare as in other Nordic countries
Everything you need to know about working in Greenland
Greenland’s job market reflects its unique economic landscape. The most common jobs are found in industries crucial to their own needs. Fishing and fish processing play a significant role, given Greenland’s reliance on its rich marine resources. Tourism-related positions, including guides and hospitality staff, cater to the growing interest in Greenland’s stunning landscapes. Public administration jobs are essential, supporting the territory’s governance. Additionally, there is a demand for skilled professionals in fields such as healthcare, education, and construction to sustain and develop the local infrastructure. Greenland’s job market combines traditional industries with emerging sectors to meet the distinct needs of its population and visitors. Carpentry, painters, and mechanics are also fields of employment in Greenland.
The Inuit heritage also affects the work culture in Greenland. They emphasise collaboration, community, and respect for nature. The pace is generally relaxed, and relationships play a crucial role. Flexibility is valued because work often adapts to and depends on the demands of the environment. Communication tends to be open which creates a sense of unity in the workplace as well as in the general community.
Taxes in Greenland
Greenland follows the Danish tax regulations, because they are an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. The tax rates in Greenland can vary based on factors such as income level, type of income, and residency status. Greenland also imposes a municipal tax, contributing to local services and infrastructure. Corporate tax rates apply to businesses operating in Greenland. The country offers various tax incentives to encourage economic development, including deductions for research and development activities.
What you need to fix when working in Greenland
- Residence + work permit; you need both before you can move to Greenland
- Register with tax authorities; this makes sure you avoid double taxation issues
- Healthcare; register for healthcare, which is free in Greenland
- Open up a bank account; needed for salary payments and more
- Get a local SIM card
Popular cities in Greenland
Speak to one of our recruiters
Life in Greenland
Imagine waking up to the sight of icebergs floating by, surrounded by snow-covered mountains that stretch as far as the eye can see. Experience dogsledding adventures across the frozen tundra, witness the incredible Northern Lights, or hike along winding trails, surrounded by stunning Arctic landscapes. The Inuit culture and traditions are deeply rooted in Greenlandic society. Enjoy the rich cultural heritage, where storytelling, drum dancing, and traditional clothing connect past and present.
5 fun facts about Greenland
- Greenland is home to the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with breathtaking icebergs.
- The island has a unique blend of Inuit traditions and Danish influences, creating a distinct cultural identity.
- Greenlandic is the world’s largest language by land area, but spoken by a very small population.
- Dog sledding is a traditional and popular mode of transportation in winter.
- The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, can often be seen in Greenland’s clear night skies.
Greenland's culture
Greenlandic culture is deeply rooted in Inuit traditions, with a strong emphasis on community and connection to the land and sea. Traditional practices like dog sledding, kayaking, and drum dancing are still cherished. Festivals such as the National Day of Greenland celebrate the island’s autonomy, and local events showcase Inuit art, music, and dance. Despite the vastness of the island, a sense of community prevails, and social gatherings play a vital role in Greenlandic life.
When it comes to sports, dog sledding races, kayaking competitions, and football are popular activities. The Greenlandic Games reflect Greenland’s cultural heritage with traditional sports like the one-foot high kick.
Typical dishes in Greenland
Greenlandic cuisine reflects the Arctic environment with a focus on seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Traditional dishes include:
- Kiviak: A delicacy made from fermented sea birds, a unique Greenlandic dish.
- Suaasat: A traditional Greenlandic soup often prepared with seal, whale, or reindeer meat.
- Mattak: Whale blubber and skin, a traditional and culturally significant food.
- Arctic Char: A popular fish in Greenlandic cuisine, often served grilled or smoked.
- Crowberries: A small, dark berry used in jams, desserts, and beverages.
Finding accommodation in Greenland
Sometimes your company will offer housing as part of your contract. But if you’re looking for accommodation on your own, it can be a unique experience due to Greenland’s remote location and limited urban development. While larger towns like Nuuk offer housing options, it’s essential to plan ahead. Online platforms, social media groups, and local real estate agencies can assist, but availability may vary.
You can expect this for the monthly rent costs in Greenland:
- 1-bedroom apartment: €750-€1,500
- Room in a shared apartment: €300-€800
Cost of living in Greenland
- Groceries: €335-€600 a month
- Simple meal in a restaurant: €13-€20
- Coffee in a café: €5-€7
- Beer in a bar: €8-€11
- Gym membership: €40-€80 a month
- Cinema ticket: €11-€16
Still not convinced about Greenland?
Greenland offers breathtaking natural landscapes and unique experiences:
- Explore the capital city of Nuuk, where you can learn about Greenlandic culture and history at the National Museum and enjoy panoramic views from the nearby mountain.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to go on a dog sledding adventure or take a boat tour to witness the magnificent whales and wildlife that inhabit the surrounding waters.
- Experience the thrill of hunting and fishing, essential activities that preserve traditions. Take part in kayaking, a skill passed down through generations, and feel the connection to the surrounding waters.
FAQ
Yes some EU citizens has to apply, but citizens of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway or Sweden does not need it. You can read all about it here.
The weather in Greenland is influenced by the Arctic location. It has a polar climate characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Average temperatures in winter range from -20 to -10 degrees Celsius, while summer temperatures hover around 5 to 10 degrees Celsius. Coastal areas tend to have milder temperatures due to the moderating effect of the ocean. The climate is also marked by strong winds, frequent snowfall.
Greenland has a limited transportation system compared to more densely populated regions. In larger towns and cities, you will find some local transportation options such as buses and taxis. However, in more remote areas, transportation options can be limited to boats, helicopters, or small airplanes. Traveling between different towns or settlements often requires air or sea transportation. It’s important to plan your transportation needs in advance and be aware of the schedules and availability of transportation options, especially if you are exploring more remote areas of Greenland.
Healthcare in Greenland is provided by the Government of Greenland and follows the Danish healthcare system. The country has a network of health clinics and hospitals that offer primary and specialized care to the population. Due to the remote nature of many settlements, medical services can be limited in certain areas. However, emergency medical evacuations are available for critical cases. Greenland’s healthcare system prioritizes the health needs of the population, considering the unique challenges posed by the Arctic environment and the dispersed communities across the vast Greenlandic territory.
English is not widely spoken in Greenland, as the official language is Greenlandic (Kalaallisut). However, due to the country’s tourism industry and its status as an autonomous territory of Denmark, many people, especially those working in tourist-related businesses, have some knowledge of English. In larger towns and cities, you are more likely to find English speakers, but in more remote or rural areas, communication in English may be more challenging. It can be helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Greenlandic or Danish, or have a translation tool available when visiting Greenland.