What is the Ríkisborgarapróf? Complete guide to Iceland's citizenship test

What is the ríkisborgarapróf?

The ríkisborgarapróf (literally "citizenship test") is Iceland's mandatory Icelandic language proficiency exam for anyone applying for Icelandic citizenship. If you are a foreign national who has lived in Iceland and wants to become an Icelandic citizen, passing this test is one of the legal requirements.

The exam has been a requirement since a 2009 amendment to the Icelandic Citizenship Act (Lög um íslenskan ríkisborgararétt, nr. 100/1952). It is administered by Mímir – Símenntun on behalf of Miðstöð menntunar og skólaþjónustu (the Education and School Services Centre).

When and where is it held?

The exam is held twice a year: once in spring (typically May/June) and once in autumn (typically November). Spring sessions are available in four locations: Reykjavík, Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Ísafjörður. Autumn sessions are usually limited to Reykjavík and Akureyri.

Registration is handled online through mimir.is. Spots are limited, and registration closes on a fixed deadline — it is not possible to register after the deadline, so plan ahead.

How much does it cost?

The exam fee is 40,000 ISK (as of 2026). Payment must be made at the time of registration — your registration is not valid until payment is confirmed. No refunds are given after registration.

What level is the exam?

The ríkisborgarapróf is set at CEFR A2 level. This corresponds to the final goals of the 240-hour basic Icelandic programme for foreigners, as defined by the Ministry of Education's curriculum. At A2 level, you are expected to:

• Understand sentences and common expressions related to everyday life (family, shopping, work, local geography).
• Communicate in simple, routine tasks on familiar topics.
• Describe your background, immediate environment, and basic needs in simple terms.

The 4 sections of the exam

The ríkisborgarapróf tests four language skills, each carrying equal weight:

You must achieve a passing score overall. All four sections contribute equally to your final result.

How to prepare

Preparation should focus on all four skills equally, since each carries the same weight. Here are practical strategies:

Reading (lesskilningur)

Practice reading simple Icelandic texts every day — news articles for learners (such as those on Vísir or RÚV), public signs, advertisements, and short stories. Focus on understanding the main idea, not every word.

Listening (hlustun)

Listen to Icelandic radio, podcasts for learners, and simple TV programmes. The key is exposure to natural speech patterns and everyday vocabulary at A2 level.

Writing (ritun)

Practise writing short texts: postcards to a friend, messages to a landlord, simple letters. Focus on clear communication rather than perfect grammar — at A2 level, minor errors are expected.

Speaking (tal)

Find opportunities to speak Icelandic — with colleagues, at shops, in language cafés (tungumálakaffi). The exam tests your ability to participate in simple conversations about familiar topics, so practise talking about your daily life, work, and family.

Tip: Our platform offers realistic simulations of all four sections, with AI-powered evaluation and instant feedback. It's the most efficient way to prepare if you can't attend a classroom course.

What happens after the exam?

Miðstöð menntunar og skólaþjónustu reviews the exams and sends results directly to candidates. If you pass, you receive confirmation that you have met the language requirement. You can then proceed with your citizenship application through Útlendingastofnun (the Directorate of Immigration) — which involves a separate application fee of 60,000 ISK and additional residency and conduct requirements.

Key facts at a glance