An important part of the Faroese government's integration policy is to ensure that residents who have a first language other than Faroese are given the opportunity to acquire solid skills in communicating in Faroese, gain a solid understanding of Faroese society and culture, and have the opportunity to pursue education within the Faroese educational system. It is considered crucial to ensure good integration.

According to the Immigration Office, there are approximately 2,420 residents in the Faroe Islands in 2024 who originate from countries outside of Europe and from European countries other than the Nordic countries.

In 2019, the government initiated a project to establish structured efforts in this area. It is now believed that the time is ripe for the initiative to be established on a permanent basis, with nationwide language instruction for residents whose first language is not Faroese.

On May 13, 2024, a bill from the Ministry of Children and Education regarding Faroese as a Second Language was passed, which sets a legal framework for the education of residents in the Faroe Islands whose first language is not Faroese. A nationwide offer of instruction in Faroese as a second language will ensure that all immigrants have the same opportunity to receive education.

It is also ensured that certain industries, where deemed necessary, may request special educational offerings for their employees. In such cases, the educational offering can be arranged for a fee according to rules set by the responsible minister.

Read the law on faroese as a second language here.

Faroese as a Second Language (referred to hereafter as FSA) for Adults

Courses for adult immigrants who wish to learn Faroese are organized in accordance with Parliamentary Act No. 58 of May 29, 2024, on Faroese as a Second Language.

Adult immigrants can attend courses and receive free language instruction following the curriculum for Faroese as a Second Language for adults, which concludes with a level or proficiency test. These are long FSL courses that take 1-4 years. The courses are offered in four locations across the country: FSL Kambsdalur, FSL Suðuroy, FSL Vágur, and FSL Tórshavn. The Ministry of Education coordinates the instruction in collaboration with partner schools.

Faroese for Foreigners

Municipalities in the country also offer short, free Faroese courses for foreigners. These courses are available nationwide and are organized as shorter courses that may end with an evaluation for Faroese as a second language.