Ilulissat, with a population of around 4,600 people, is a relatively small town located in the western region of Greenland. It is best known for its breathtaking icebergs and UNESCO-listed ice fjord, which have become symbols of Greenland's stunning natural beauty. Ilulissat is the third-largest urban center in Greenland and serves as an important commercial and cultural hub for the region. While relatively isolated, it has a growing expatriate community made up of professionals working in various industries.
Tips for expats in Ilulissat
Visa requirements
Working in Greenland requires a specific permit, which can be obtained from the Greenlandic Immigration Authority. A residency permit is also required for expats to live in Greenland, and they are valid for up to three years. The Immigration Authority is based in Nuuk but has an office in Ilulissat. Applications for work and residency permits are accepted at any time of the year, although it's recommended to apply for your residency permit at least 3 months before your intended move to Greenland.
Language resources
The main languages spoken in Greenland are Greenlandic and Danish, with Greenlandic being the sole recognized national language. Expat children are encouraged to attend school in Greenland in order to learn the local languages and customs, which helps them to better integrate into the community. The country's schools provide language courses and there are also language courses offered at various institutions throughout Greenland, including Danish language courses specifically for expats. It's also worth considering taking language courses before you move to Greenland in order to help you better understand and accommodate the language barrier.
Cost of living for expats in Ilulissat
Housing
There are a variety of housing options available in Ilulissat, and costs vary depending on the standard of living desired. A room in a shared house can range from $400 to $650 USD per month, while a one-bedroom apartment starts around $850 USD per month. A two-bedroom apartment typically costs $1,250 USD to $1,800 USD, and a three-bedroom or larger house is around $2,500 USD per month. It's important to note that utilities are relatively expensive in Greenland, and can add an additional $250 to $500 USD per month to the housing costs.
Groceries
Grocery costs in Ilulissat are relatively high due to the remote location of the town and the high import costs of many goods. Fresh produce is often imported from Denmark, which makes it expensive and is typically only available in the grocery stores. The average monthly grocery bill for a family of four is approximately $2,000 USD.
Transportation
Transportation costs in Ilulissat are reasonable, with a monthly public transportation pass costing approximately $85 USD. Taxis are also readily available but can be quite expensive, with fares starting at $12 USD for a short journey.
Climate in Ilulissat
Ilulissat is located in the Arctic Circle, which means it experiences long, harsh winters and short, mild summers. Winter lasts from December to March, and the temperatures can drop as low as -34°C (-29°F). The summer, from June to August, is relatively mild, with an average temperature of 4°C (39°F). The region is also prone to strong winds, making it chilly even during the summer months.
Job market in Ilulissat
Ilulissat offers a variety of employment opportunities, particularly in industries such as fishing, transportation, education, and tourism. Many citizens work for the local government or in administrative roles. The job market is relatively stable, with few layoffs or seasonal fluctuations. The average salary in Ilulissat is around $66,00 USD per year, with wages often dependent on the specific role and industry.
Healthcare in Ilulissat
Ilulissat offers a range of healthcare services, although hospitals are located further afield in Nuuk. The Qaqortoq District Hospital is the nearest hospital, approximately 400 kilometers south of Ilulissat. The local healthcare center provides basic medical care, including emergency services, child and maternal care, and GP services. The hospital also has a pharmacy and dental center on the premises.
Transport in Ilulissat
Ilulissat is easily navigated on foot or bike, with most of the town's amenities concentrated in the center. There is a small local harbor, which operates regular boat tours of the ice fjord. Taxis are available for those who prefer not to walk or bike, but they can be quite expensive compared to other modes of transportation.
Safety in Ilulissat
Ilulissat is generally a safe place to live, but it's recommended to take standard precautions, such as ensuring that doors and windows are locked at all times and keeping expensive items hidden from view when walking around the town.
Neighborhoods in Ilulissat
Ilunaat
This is the central district of Ilulissat and benefits from being close to most of the town's amenities. The district offers a mix of residential and commercial properties, making it a popular choice for expats. The rental costs are slightly higher than elsewhere in the area, but it's a convenient location for those working in central Ilulissat.
Qajarnaat
This neighborhood is situated to the east of Ilulissat and offers a more residential feel. It's a quiet area, perfect for families looking for a more peaceful location. The housing costs in this neighborhood are often lower than those in Ilunaat, making it a desirable choice for expats.
Aqqusinersuaq
This district is located to the south of Ilulissat, alongside the traditional settlement Akook. The houses in this area offer amazing views of the fjord and surrounding mountains. While it's a bit further from the town center, it's a popular choice for families looking for bigger houses and larger outdoor spaces.
Attractions in Ilulissat
Ilulissat Icefjord
Located just outside of Ilulissat, this UNESCO-listed site is one of Greenland's most iconic natural wonders. Measuring over 32 kilometers in length, it's a breathtaking sight with enormous icebergs rising out of the water that have calved from the nearby glaciers. Boat tours of the icefjord are available throughout the year, and offer a unique perspective of this stunning attraction.
Sermermiut
The old settlement of Sermermiut is located about 5 kilometers north of Ilulissat and dates back to the 13th century. It's a historic site filled with processed whale and seal bones, reindeer horns, and other Inuit cultural artifacts. Visitors can hike or bike to the area, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjords.
The Greenland Heritage Museum
Located in the heart of Ilulissat, this museum offers a fascinating insight into Greenland's cultural heritage. It features traditional Inuit homes, bone carvings, and ice sculptures, as well as other artefacts related to Greenland's Inuit past. The museum is open throughout the year and entry is free.
International Schools in Ilulissat
Invictus Academy
Estoqsifjørði
Invictus Academy is a co-educational day school that provides English education to expat children. It offers classes from kindergarten to the ninth grade. The school aims to provide a safe and caring environment which fosters social, physical, and intellectual growth, while supporting students to realize their full potential.
Gimnasioulinn Helger efftir Sukoriaq
Pariterfitsuup Aqqusinik
This is an Inuit-owned primary school located in Aqqusinersuaq. It serves students from kindergarten to the fifth grade, with classes offered in both Greenlandic and Danish. It's a great option for families with younger children who prefer a smaller, more intimate environment.
