Moving to Greenland comes with unique challenges—and housing is one of the biggest. With a severe shortage of homes, especially in Nuuk and other large towns, it’s often difficult for newcomers to secure a place to live. Here’s what you need to know before making the move.
Staff Accommodation
Many jobs in Greenland come with staff housing. This is often the easiest way to secure a home, as the wait for a municipal rental in Nuuk can be 10–12 years.
- Public employers (Government of Greenland and municipalities) usually provide housing through INI A/S or Iserit.
- Private companies also offer staff residences to attract workers.
- Keep in mind: when your employment ends, you lose the right to stay in staff housing.
Economic and Personnel Agency: Housing in Nuuk
No Staff Housing?
If your job doesn’t include accommodation, you’ll need to turn to the private housing market. Options include:
- Local real estate agents
- Town newspapers or community noticeboards
- Facebook groups (e.g., Bolig søges/udlejes Nuuk/Nuussuaq/Qinngorput)
- Asking colleagues and friends for leads
Temporary & Permanent Rentals
Many new arrivals start in vacant housing (vakantbolig)—temporary, furnished apartments offered until permanent housing becomes available. Instead of paying rent, you are taxed on this type of accommodation.
Permanent rentals are mainly managed by:
- INI A/S – the largest public housing company
- Iserit – manages properties in Sermersooq Municipality (Nuuk, Paamiut, Ittoqqortormiit, Tasiilaq)
- Illuut (Agerskov Consulting) – private operator in Nuuk
The size of your household determines the apartment offered. In Nuuk, waiting lists are long, so flexibility is key.
Taxation of free accommodation
FAQ: Housing in Greenland
1. Is it hard to find housing in Greenland?
Yes. There is a serious housing shortage, especially in Nuuk, where waiting times for public rentals can be up to 10–12 years.
2. Do jobs in Greenland provide housing?
Many employers, including municipalities and the Government of Greenland, provide staff accommodation. Private companies often do as well.
3. Can foreigners buy property in Greenland?
Yes. Both individuals and companies can purchase homes. However, you must apply for site allocation to gain the right to use the land. NunaGis
4. What is vacant housing (vakantbolig)?
Vacant housing is temporary, furnished accommodation provided until permanent housing becomes available. Residents don’t pay rent but are taxed on the benefit.
5. Who manages public rental housing in Greenland?
The main housing providers are INI A/S, Iserit, and Illuut (Agerskov Consulting).
Source: Nordic Co-operation