Moving to Greece from the UK: Post-Brexit Guide for British Citizens

Thinking of moving to Greece from the UK to enjoy island life, retire in the sun, or work remotely? This guide explains how British citizens can relocate to Greece post-Brexit — legally, safely, and confidently — with or without EU ties.


🧳 Why Move to Greece from the UK?

  • ☀️ Warmer climate and slower pace of life

  • 🏝️ Hundreds of islands and beaches

  • 💶 Lower cost of living than the UK

  • 🏛️ Rich history, culture, and food

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Large expat communities in Crete, Corfu, Athens, and Rhodes


🛂 Post-Brexit: What UK Citizens Need to Know

Since the UK is no longer in the EU:

  • You can visit Greece visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period

  • To stay longer, you must apply for a Greek residence permit


🏡 Visa & Residency Options for UK Nationals

Here are your top options depending on your goals — whether you want to work, retire, invest, or reunite with family.


1. 💻 Digital Nomad Visa (Remote Workers)

Perfect for remote workers or freelancers with clients outside Greece.

  • Income requirement: €3,500/month (plus 20% for spouse, 15% for child)

  • Initial 1-year visa, renewable for 1 year

  • Apply from the UK or within Greece

  • Family members can join you

  • Cannot work for Greek companies


2. 👴 FIP Visa (Financially Independent Person)

Ideal for retirees or those living off savings, pensions, or investments.

  • Minimum income: €2,000/month (proven via pensions or assets)

  • Health insurance required

  • Work not allowed in Greece

  • Renewable every 2 years

  • Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship


3. 🏠 Golden Visa (Real Estate Investment)

If you’re investing in Greek property:

  • Investment threshold: €250,000–€500,000 depending on location

  • Includes spouse, children, and parents

  • 5-year renewable residence permit

  • No requirement to live in Greece

  • Eligible for citizenship after 7 years if you reside in Greece


4. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Reunification Visa

For those with spouses or relatives already residing in Greece.

  • Sponsor must be a legal resident or Greek citizen

  • Must prove accommodation and financial stability

  • Allows family members to live, study, and eventually work in Greece


5. 🇬🇷 Greek Citizenship by Descent

Have Greek ancestry? British citizens with a Greek parent or grandparent may apply for citizenship by descent.

  • No residency requirement

  • No Greek language test required

  • Apply at the Greek Embassy in London or Edinburgh

  • Get a Greek passport and full EU rights


📑 Documents Required

  • Valid UK passport

  • Proof of income or assets

  • UK police certificate (ACRO)

  • Greek tax number (AFM)

  • Private health insurance

  • Lease or ownership of a Greek residence

  • Marriage/birth certificates (if applying with family)

  • Documents must be apostilled and translated into Greek


📍 Where to Apply from the UK

  • Greek Embassy in London

  • Greek Consulate in Edinburgh

  • OR enter Greece visa-free and apply at the local Aliens Bureau (Μεταναστευτική Υπηρεσία)


⚖️ Borderless Lawyers Can Help

Our Greek immigration lawyers support British citizens with:

✅ Visa application and legal strategy
✅ Assistance with property purchase for the Golden Visa
✅ Citizenship by descent research and documentation
✅ Tax and bank setup in Greece
✅ Translations and certified copies of UK documents

🌍 We work with clients across London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Scotland, providing online consultations and full legal representation in Greece.


🗂️ Visa Comparison Table

Visa Type Income Needed Can Work? Includes Family Citizenship Path
Digital Nomad Visa €3,500/month ✅ (remote only) ✅ (after 7 yrs)
FIP Visa €2,000/month
Golden Visa €250K–€500K
Family Visa Sponsor dependent
Citizenship by Descent N/A N/A ✅ (full citizen)

🧠 Tips for UK Expats Moving to Greece

  • Apply for a Greek tax ID (AFM) before submitting your visa

  • Set up private Greek health insurance to avoid delays

  • Consider long-term rental or real estate if applying for residency

  • For citizenship by descent, gather full birth/marriage records early

  • Use an immigration lawyer to streamline translations and legal filings


📞 Get Professional Legal Help

Whether you’re moving for retirement, investment, or family, we’ll make your relocation to Greece stress-free.

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