Live and work 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.
Popular cities in Greenland
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. Greenland’s vast wilderness invites you to explore its untamed beauty. Embark on thrilling dogsledding adventures across the frozen tundra, witness the incredible Northern Lights painting the sky with vibrant hues, or hike along winding trails, surrounded by stunning Arctic landscapes. The Inuit culture and traditions are deeply rooted in Greenlandic society. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage, where storytelling, drum dancing, and traditional clothing connect past and present. Engage with the friendly locals, learn Greenlandic phrases, and experience the warmth of their hospitality.
Quick facts about working in Greenland
- Average working hours per week: 40 hours, 8 hours daily
- Typical working day: Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Number of Vacation days: 25 days / 5 weeks
- Commute: Mostly by bus, taxi or boat
- Work culture: Mostly flat hierarchy
You will have colleagues from everywhere, but you will speak in your own native language, supporting customers from your country.
Read more about Moving to Greenland
Quick info about Greenland
Typical food
Suaasat (stew of potato, onions, rice and seal), fish roe, roasted ptarmigan (poultry)
Population
~56,600 people
Location
Greenland is situated in the North Atlantic Ocean. The capital city is Nuuk.
Languages
Greenlandic, Klaallisut
Famous people
Nukaaka Coster-Waldau, Knud Johan Victor Rasmussen, Rasmus Lyberth
Currency
Danish krone (ISO code: DKK, symbol: kr)
Avg. working week
40 hours
8 hours daily
Healthcare
Residents of Greenland has free healthcare as in other Nordic countries.
Other countries nearby
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.
Still not convinced about Greenland?
Greenland offers breathtaking natural landscapes and unique experiences. Visit Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where colossal icebergs calve off the glacier and drift into the frigid waters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. 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.
Life in Greenland revolves around resilience and adapting to the Arctic environment. Experience the thrill of hunting and fishing, essential activities that provide sustenance and preserve traditions. Take part in kayaking, a skill passed down through generations, and feel the connection to the surrounding waters.
Greenland offers a unique and exciting nightlife experience, especially during the summer months where the sun never sets. Nuuk is home to several bars and pubs that offer live music, dancing, and delicious cocktails. Additionally, you can enjoy the traditional Greenlandic culture by attending a local concert or festival.
Greenlandic cuisine celebrates the bounty of the sea and the Arctic landscape. Taste the unique flavours of local delicacies, such as Mattak (whale skin and blubber), Kiviak (fermented seabirds), and fresh seafood like shrimp and Arctic char. Let the traditional Greenlandic coffee, brewed with a touch of schnapps, warm you from the inside out.
