Can you move to Greece?

Greek citizenship can be acquired through naturalisation by eligible foreign nationals who satisfy the residence, integration, and nationality requirements established under Greek law. Applicants are generally expected to demonstrate continuous lawful residence, sufficient integration into Greek society, good character, and, where required, knowledge of the Greek language. Citizenship may also be acquired through descent, birth, or other legal pathways provided under Greek nationality legislation. Successful applicants receive the rights and responsibilities associated with Greek and European Union citizenship.

Greece offers a Digital Nomad Visa for eligible non-European Union nationals who wish to reside in Greece while working remotely for employers or clients located outside the country. The programme is intended to attract remote professionals whose income is generated primarily from foreign sources. Applicants are generally expected to demonstrate sufficient income, suitable accommodation, valid health insurance and compliance with Greek immigration requirements. Successful applicants may obtain residence that is renewable where the applicable legal conditions continue to be met. The visa has an initial issuance duration of up to 12 months.

Eligible foreign nationals who have legally resided in Greece for the qualifying period may apply for permanent residence in accordance with Greek immigration legislation. Permanent residence provides greater long-term stability and reduces the need for repeated renewal of temporary residence permits.

Processing times for Greek visas and residence permits vary depending on the visa category, the Greek diplomatic mission processing the application, and whether additional verification or supporting documentation is required. Seasonal demand and administrative workloads may also influence processing times. Following arrival in Greece, applicants may be required to complete residence registration, biometric enrolment, or additional administrative procedures depending on the residence category granted.

The documentation required for a Greek residency permit depends on the type of permit and the applicant's circumstances. A common fee for a residency permit is €150, and a card fee of €16 covers the printing of the separate document.

Greece provides residency pathways for financially independent foreign nationals who wish to retire in the country without undertaking employment. Applicants are generally expected to demonstrate stable income from pensions or other qualifying passive income sources together with suitable accommodation and health insurance. Employment in Greece may be restricted depending on the residence category granted.

Greece distinguishes between short-stay Schengen visas and long-stay national visas for foreign nationals. Citizens of European Union and European Economic Area member states generally benefit from freedom of movement and may reside in Greece subject to applicable registration requirements. Long-term residence permits are issued for employment, financially independent residence, investment, digital nomad activities, study and entrepreneurship. Residence permits are generally issued for a fixed period and may be renewed where the applicable legal requirements continue to be met. Eligible long-term residents may later qualify for permanent residence or Greek citizenship under Greek immigration and nationality law.

Greece provides several residence pathways for foreign nationals who have secured employment with Greek employers. Most applicants require a valid job offer and the appropriate work authorization before applying for a long-stay national visa. Residence permits are generally linked to the approved employment and may be renewed where the employment relationship continues and all legal requirements remain satisfied.