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Greece

Europe

Greece is a Schengen member offering visa-free access to EU citizens and many other nationalities. The country introduced a Digital Nomad Visa in 2021, allowing remote workers to stay for up to 2 years with a 50% income tax reduction. With its Mediterranean climate, rich history, affordable living costs, and growing digital infrastructure, Greece has become an attractive destination for digital nomads seeking European residency.

5
Visa Types
63
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:

Visa requirements vary by nationality

🎫 Available Visa Types

⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program

Digital Nomad Visa

A residence permit for remote workers employed by foreign companies or self-employed with clients abroad. Valid for up to 2 years with 50% income tax reduction for up to 7 years.

365 days
Duration
€225
$244 fee
+€650 additional

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $3,500/per_month

Alternative: Savings can be used as alternative proof. Minimum income increases by 20% for spouse and 15% per child.

✅ Key Benefits

✓Stay and work remotely in Greece for up to 2 years
✓Access to visa-free travel in Schengen Area (27 countries)
✓50% income tax reduction for up to 7 years (conditions apply)
✓Include spouse and dependent children in application
✓Path to permanent residency after 5 years
✓Path to citizenship after 7 years of residence
✓Access to Greek healthcare system
✓No minimum stay requirement in Greece
📋 Requirements (10)
  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Proof of remote employment or self-employment with clients abroad
  • •Employment contract or freelance agreements
  • •Proof of minimum monthly income of €3,500 after taxes
  • •Bank statements from the last 6 months
  • •Private health insurance valid in Greece
  • •Criminal record certificate from country of residence
  • •Proof of accommodation in Greece
  • •Two passport-sized photos
  • •Cover letter explaining remote work situation
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ 1 to 3 months
  1. 1Gather all required documents including proof of income and employment
  2. 2Obtain criminal record certificate from your home country
  3. 3Apply at the Greek Embassy or Consulate in your country
  4. 4Attend visa interview if required
  5. 5Wait for visa approval (typically 1-3 months)
  6. 6Travel to Greece and register with local immigration office
  7. 7Apply for residence permit at Aliens and Immigration Department
  8. 8Receive 2-year residence permit
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 730 days (max 1x)

Cost: €150

Process: Apply for renewal at the local Aliens and Immigration Department at least 2 months before expiry. Submit updated proof of income and employment.

Renewal: The residence permit can be renewed for additional 3-year periods as long as income and employment requirements are met.

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Apply at least 3 months before planned travel date
  • •Consider hiring a local immigration lawyer for smoother processing
  • •Obtain AFM (tax number) upon arrival for banking and housing
  • •If eligible for visa-free entry, you can apply for residence permit directly in Greece
  • •Athens and Thessaloniki have faster processing times than islands
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program

Golden Visa (Investor Residence Permit)

Residence-by-investment program granting 5-year renewable residence permit through real estate or other qualifying investments. No minimum stay requirement.

1825 days
Duration
€402,000
$436.2K fee
+€1,055,000 additional

✅ Key Benefits

✓5-year residence permit for investor and family
✓Includes spouse, children under 21, and parents of both spouses
✓No minimum stay requirement
✓Visa-free travel in Schengen Area
✓Can rent property for income
✓Path to permanent residency and citizenship
✓Access to Greek education and healthcare
📋 Requirements (8)
  • •Valid passport
  • •Proof of qualifying investment
  • •Property purchase deed (for real estate)
  • •Health insurance valid in Greece
  • •Clean criminal record
  • •Proof of legal source of funds
  • •Biometric data collection
  • •Property must be single unit, minimum 120 sqm (new rules)
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ 4 to 12 months
  1. 1Select investment type and location
  2. 2Engage Greek lawyer and real estate agent
  3. 3Obtain Greek tax number (AFM)
  4. 4Open Greek bank account
  5. 5Complete property purchase or investment
  6. 6Apply for residence permit with all documents
  7. 7Submit biometrics
  8. 8Receive 5-year residence permit
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 1825 days (max x)

Cost: €2,000

Process: Renewable every 5 years as long as investment is maintained. No minimum stay requirement.

Renewal: Renewable indefinitely. Can apply for permanent residency after 5 years or citizenship after 7 years (separate requirements apply).

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Investment thresholds increased significantly in 2024 - plan accordingly
  • •Tier 2 areas (€400,000) offer good value outside major cities
  • •Consider commercial-to-residential conversion option at €250,000
  • •Processing backlog exists - expect 6-12 months
  • •Hire reputable lawyer experienced in Golden Visa applications

Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)

TouristPopular

Standard Schengen visa for tourism, business visits, or family visits. Allows stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area.

90d
Duration
€90
$98 fee
+€100 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱15 to 30 working days
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Schengen visa fee (adult)Standard fee as of June 2024
€90$98
Additional (estimated)
Schengen visa fee (children 6-12)Reduced fee for minors
€45$49
VFS service feeIf applying through visa center
€25$27
Travel insuranceMinimum €30,000 coverage required
€30$33
Required Total
€90$98
+ Additional (estimated)
€100$109
Estimated Total
€190$206
💱1 USD = 0.92 EUR•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond stay
  • •Completed Schengen visa application form
  • •Two recent passport-sized photographs
  • •Travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
  • •Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, invitation letter)
  • •Round-trip flight reservation
  • •Proof of sufficient funds (approximately €50 per day)
  • •Employment letter or proof of business
  • •Bank statements from last 3-6 months
  • •Cover letter explaining purpose of visit

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Determine if you need a Schengen visa based on nationality
  2. 2Complete the online visa application form
  3. 3Schedule appointment at Greek Embassy, Consulate, or VFS center
  4. 4Gather all required documents with translations if needed
  5. 5Attend visa appointment and submit biometrics
  6. 6Pay visa fee (€90 for adults)
  7. 7Wait for processing (typically 15 working days)
  8. 8Collect passport with visa

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Maximum 90 days stay in any 180-day period
  • •Cannot work or engage in paid activities
  • •Cannot extend stay beyond 90 days
  • •Must have return ticket
  • •Must prove sufficient funds for stay

💡 Tips

  • •Apply at least 15 days but no more than 6 months before travel
  • •Apply to the embassy of your main destination country
  • •Request multiple-entry visa if planning repeat visits
  • •Book refundable flights until visa is approved
  • •Peak season (May-September) may have longer processing times

National Long-Stay Visa (Type D)

Special Program

National visa for stays exceeding 90 days for purposes such as work, study, family reunification, or retirement. Required as entry visa before obtaining residence permit.

90d
Duration
€180
$195 fee
+€150 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱1 to 3 months depending on category
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
National visa application feeStandard fee for Type D visa
€180$195
Additional (estimated)
Residence permit feeAdditional fee upon residence permit issuance
€150$163
Required Total
€180$195
+ Additional (estimated)
€150$163
Estimated Total
€330$358
💱1 USD = 0.92 EUR•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 12 months validity
  • •Completed national visa application form
  • •Two passport-sized photographs
  • •Criminal record certificate
  • •Health insurance valid in Greece
  • •Proof of purpose (work contract, university admission, etc.)
  • •Proof of accommodation in Greece
  • •Proof of sufficient financial means
  • •Additional documents based on visa purpose

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Determine the specific category of Type D visa needed
  2. 2Gather documents specific to your visa category
  3. 3Schedule appointment at Greek Embassy or Consulate
  4. 4Submit application and all required documents
  5. 5Pay visa fee (€180)
  6. 6Attend interview if required
  7. 7Wait for processing (varies by category)
  8. 8Travel to Greece and apply for residence permit

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Must apply for specific purpose (work, study, etc.)
  • •Cannot change purpose after arrival without new visa
  • •Must apply for residence permit after arrival
  • •Processing times vary significantly by category

💡 Tips

  • •Start application process at least 3 months before planned travel
  • •Each visa category has specific document requirements
  • •Consult Greek Embassy for exact requirements for your situation
  • •Consider legal assistance for complex cases

Schengen Visa-Free Entry

TouristPopular

Citizens from 63 countries can enter Greece and the Schengen Area without a visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

90d
Duration
€0
<$1 fee
+€37 additional
📍Apply: On Arrival
⏱Immediate entry at border
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Entry feeNo visa fee required for visa-exempt nationalities
€0<$1
Additional (estimated)
Travel insuranceStrongly recommended though not mandatory
€30$33
ETIAS authorization (future)Expected to be required from 2025 for visa-exempt travelers
€7$8
Required Total
€0<$1
+ Additional (estimated)
€37$40
Estimated Total
€37$40
💱1 USD = 0.92 EUR•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond stay
  • •Passport issued within last 10 years
  • •Proof of sufficient funds for stay
  • •Return or onward travel ticket
  • •Proof of accommodation
  • •ETIAS authorization (when implemented)

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Verify your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry
  2. 2Ensure passport meets validity requirements
  3. 3Obtain ETIAS authorization when required (expected 2025)
  4. 4Carry proof of accommodation and return ticket
  5. 5Proceed through passport control upon arrival
  6. 6Stay within 90-day limit in 180-day period

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Maximum 90 days in any 180-day period (entire Schengen Area)
  • •Cannot work or engage in paid activities
  • •Cannot extend stay or change status easily
  • •Must have proof of funds and accommodation

💡 Tips

  • •Use Schengen calculator to track your 90/180 days
  • •Keep proof of entry/exit stamps for all Schengen travel
  • •Can enter Greece visa-free and apply for Digital Nomad residence permit
  • •ETIAS will be required soon - apply online before travel

📊 Quick Facts

CapitalAthens
CurrencyEUR (€)
LanguageGreek
TimezoneUTC+2 / UTC+3 (DST)
Last UpdatedDec 1, 2025

🔗 Official Resources

Immigration BureauEmbassy Website

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does Greece have a Digital Nomad Visa
Yes, Greece launched its Digital Nomad Visa in September 2021 under Law 4825/2021. It allows non-EU remote workers to live in Greece for up to 2 years while working for foreign employers or clients. The minimum income requirement is €3,500 per month after taxes, increasing for family members. Applicants can also benefit from a 50% income tax reduction for up to 7 years if they become Greek tax residents.
Can I work remotely in Greece on a tourist visa
Technically, working remotely for a foreign employer while on a tourist visa is in a legal gray area. Greece does not explicitly prohibit remote work for foreign companies during short stays. However, if you stay more than 90 days or plan to work long-term, you should apply for the Digital Nomad Visa. If you become a tax resident (over 183 days), you may have tax obligations.
What is the 90/180 day Schengen rule
The Schengen Area allows visa-free visitors to stay for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day rolling period. This applies to all 27 Schengen countries combined, not just Greece. If you spend 90 days in Greece, you cannot visit any other Schengen country until 90 days have passed. Use the official Schengen calculator to track your days.
How do I apply for a Greek Tax Number AFM
To obtain an AFM (Arithmo Forologikou Mitrou), visit any local tax office (DOY - Dimosia Oikonomiki Ypiresia) in Greece with your passport. The process is free and usually takes about 30 minutes. Non-residents may need a tax representative. The AFM is required for opening a bank account, renting property, and many official transactions.
What are the Golden Visa investment requirements in 2025
As of 2024, Greece Golden Visa has tiered investment requirements. Tier 1 (€800,000) applies to Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with over 3,100 residents. Tier 2 (€400,000) applies to other regions. The €250,000 option remains for commercial-to-residential conversions and listed building restorations. Properties must be single units of at least 120 sqm under new rules.
Can I get permanent residency or citizenship through the Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad Visa can lead to permanent residency and eventually citizenship. After 5 years of continuous legal residence in Greece, you may apply for permanent residency. After 7 years of residence, you can apply for Greek citizenship through naturalization, provided you meet language requirements and other criteria. Greece allows dual citizenship.
What healthcare options are available for digital nomads in Greece
Digital Nomad Visa applicants must have private health insurance valid in Greece. Greece has both public (ESY) and private healthcare systems. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). For non-EU residents, private insurance is essential. Popular providers include Cigna Global, Allianz Care, and SafetyWing. Private hospitals in Athens and major cities offer excellent English-speaking care.
What is the cost of living for digital nomads in Greece
Greece offers affordable living compared to Western Europe. Monthly costs for digital nomads average €1,500-€2,500 including rent, food, and utilities. Athens apartments rent for €500-€900 per month. Thessaloniki and islands offer similar or lower costs. Coworking spaces cost €100-€200 monthly. The €3,500 income requirement for Digital Nomad Visa provides comfortable living with savings.
Do I need to pay taxes in Greece as a digital nomad
Tax liability depends on your residency status. If you stay less than 183 days per year, you are not a Greek tax resident and generally do not owe Greek taxes on foreign income. If you stay over 183 days, you become a tax resident. Digital Nomad Visa holders who become tax residents may qualify for a 50% income tax reduction for up to 7 years under Article 5C of the Greek Income Tax Code.
When will ETIAS be required for visa-free travel to Greece
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is expected to be implemented in 2025 for visa-exempt travelers visiting the Schengen Area including Greece. The authorization will cost €7, be valid for 3 years, and require an online application before travel. It applies to citizens of countries with visa-free access, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and others.
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Important Disclaimer

Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2025

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