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.
Visa requirements vary by nationality
A residence permit for remote workers employed by foreign companies or self-employed with clients abroad. Requires embassy application (Law 5275/2026). Initial visa valid 12 months, extendable to a 2-year renewable residence permit. Potential 50% income tax reduction for qualifying new tax residents.
Minimum $3,500/per_month
Alternative: Savings can be used as alternative proof. Minimum income increases by 20% for spouse and 15% per child.
This visa explicitly permits remote work for foreign employers or clients.
Extension: 730 days (max x)
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 2-year periods as long as income and employment requirements are met. Must apply via Greek consulate/embassy before entry (Law 5275/2026).
Digital nomads staying under 183 days have no Greek tax liability. After 183 days, you become tax resident and Greek progressive rates apply (9%–44%). Article 5C offers a 50% income tax reduction for 7 years for new tax residents, but requires employment with a Greek entity or self-employment in Greece — pure remote workers for foreign employers without Greek presence may not qualify. Apply to AADE by year-end of the first tax year.
Residence-by-investment program granting 5-year renewable residence permit through real estate or other qualifying investments. No minimum stay requirement.
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).
No minimum stay requirement to maintain the permit. Optional non-dom flat tax of €100,000/year on worldwide income available. Retirees can apply for 7% flat tax on foreign pension income for 15 years. Short-term rentals (Airbnb) prohibited on Golden Visa properties (€50,000 fine).
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.
No explicit rules on remote work during short tourist stays. Greece has a Digital Nomad Visa (EUR 3,500/month minimum) for longer stays.
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.
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.
No explicit rules on remote work during short tourist stays. Greece has a Digital Nomad Visa (EUR 3,500/month minimum) for longer stays.
Residence permit for financially independent individuals who can support themselves without employment in Greece. Popular with retirees and FIRE community. Valid for 3 years, renewable. Does not permit any work or business activity in Greece.
This visa does NOT permit any work or business activity in Greece. Holders must support themselves entirely from foreign income, pensions, or savings.
Tax residency triggered after 183 days/year. Worldwide income becomes taxable under Greek progressive rates (9%–44%). Retirees from specific countries can apply for a 7% flat tax on foreign pension income for 15 years. Double taxation treaties may apply. Optional non-dom regime available (€100,000/year flat tax on worldwide income).
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