Greece offers various residence permits for non-EU citizens who want to live, work, invest, or retire in the country. From employment to family reunification, the right permit depends on your goals and background.
This guide covers the most common residence permit categories, legal steps, and how to avoid delays or rejections.
🧾 Types of Residence Permits Available
Here are the main residence permits non-EU citizens can apply for:
| Permit Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Golden Visa | Investors in real estate or capital |
| Financially Independent | Retirees, digital nomads, self-funded |
| Employment-Based | Sponsored employees in Greece |
| Student Visa / Permit | University or graduate-level students |
| Family Reunification | Joining spouse or parent in Greece |
| Business or Freelance | Entrepreneurs, sole proprietors |
| Humanitarian / Asylum | Refugees, victims of violence or war |
👤 Who Can Apply?
You must be a non-EU or non-EEA citizen and meet the requirements specific to the type of residence permit.
🔹 Most applicants need:
-
A valid long-stay visa (D-type)
-
Clean criminal record
-
Private or public health insurance
-
Proof of sufficient income or job contract
📌 Requirements vary widely by category — legal review is essential.
📝 Required Documents
General requirements include:
📄 Passport valid for at least 1 year
📄 Long-stay visa issued by Greek consulate
📄 Proof of income or investment
📄 Rental contract or property deed
📄 Greek health insurance coverage
📑 Certified translations of all foreign documents
⚠️ Additional documents may be requested based on permit type.
⏱ Application Process
-
Enter Greece with a valid visa
-
Prepare residence permit documents
-
Submit application to the Decentralized Administration Office
-
Receive temporary permit receipt (blue paper)
-
Attend biometrics appointment
-
Wait for final residence permit card (typically 2–6 months)
🛑 Working or studying without the correct permit is illegal.
📍 Common Permit Categories Explained
🟢 Golden Visa (Investor Permit)
-
Minimum €250,000–€500,000 property purchase
-
Includes full family
-
No stay requirement
🟡 Financially Independent Person (FIP)
-
Minimum €2,000/month passive income
-
No work allowed in Greece
-
Must live in Greece 6+ months per year
🔵 Employment Permit
-
Requires Greek employer sponsorship
-
Permit tied to specific job/employer
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Applying under the wrong category
❌ Submitting incomplete documents
❌ Ignoring stay requirements (FIP, student visa)
❌ Missing biometric deadlines
📂 These errors can result in application rejection or non-renewal.
⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
With our legal guidance, you’ll avoid delays, rejections, and compliance risks. We offer:
📁 Document verification and translations
📝 Permit selection guidance
🛡 Full representation at immigration offices
📞 Support during renewals and appeals
📌 Local legal presence in Greece
Whether you’re applying for the first time or need help renewing, we’re here to support your journey.
📞 Ready to Apply for Residency in Greece?
Let us simplify the legal process so you can focus on living your life in Greece.
💬 Contact Borderless Lawyers today for a personalized consultation and get legal clarity on your residence permit options.
✉️ Move forward with confidence — wherever you’re from, Greece can be home.