Immigrate to Greece from New Zealand: The Complete Guide

Looking to relocate from New Zealand to the sun-soaked Mediterranean? Greece offers a relaxed lifestyle, EU access, and several visa pathways for New Zealand citizens seeking to live, work, invest, or retire in Europe.

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✈️ Why Move from New Zealand to Greece?

• 🌍 Strategic location in Europe and the Schengen Zone

• 🏛️ Rich history, vibrant culture, and strong family values

• 🏖️ Mild climate and beautiful islands

• 💰 Lower cost of living than other EU nations

• 📚 Access to European healthcare and education systems

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🛂 Visa Options for New Zealand Citizens Moving to Greece

New Zealanders can enter Greece visa-free for up to 90 days. For longer stays, you’ll need a national visa (type D) and a residence permit. Here are the most popular immigration options:

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1. 🧳 Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa

Perfect for retirees or individuals with passive income.

• Prove income of €2,000/month (plus ~20% for a spouse and 15% for each child)

• Cannot work in Greece but can live freely

• Must show Greek private health insurance

• Apply at the Greek Embassy in Wellington

👉 More about the FIP Visa

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2. 🧑‍💻 Digital Nomad Visa

Ideal for remote workers employed by non-Greek companies.

• Must earn at least €3,500/month net

• Can bring dependents

• 1-year visa, renewable

• Fast approval timeline

👉 Apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa

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3. 🏘️ Golden Visa (Investment-Based Residency)

Great for long-term EU access and real estate investors.

• Minimum €250,000–€500,000 real estate investment

• Get a 5-year renewable residence permit

• No stay requirement to renew

• Family members included

• Path to citizenship after 7 years (if residing in Greece)

👉 Explore Golden Visa Options

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4. 📚 Student Visa

For New Zealanders accepted into Greek universities.

• Admission to accredited Greek institution

• Financial means to support study

• Health insurance required

• Can work part-time and apply for post-study residency

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5. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Reunification

If you have family already living legally in Greece.

• Includes spouses, children, and sometimes parents

• Sponsor must have valid residence in Greece

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📍 How to Apply from New Zealand

1️⃣ Determine your visa category
2️⃣ Prepare all required documents (translated and certified)
3️⃣ Apply via the Greek Embassy in Wellington
4️⃣ Attend a visa interview
5️⃣ Upon approval, travel to Greece and apply for your residence permit

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📋 Documents You May Need

• Valid New Zealand passport

• Visa application form

• Clean criminal record

• Proof of income or investment

• Health insurance

• Proof of accommodation in Greece

• Birth/marriage certificates (if bringing family)

📝 All foreign documents should be officially translated into Greek and apostilled.

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👨‍⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help

We help Kiwis make the move to Greece by offering:

✅ Visa and residency strategy
✅ Legal assistance with property investments
✅ Translations and documentation review
✅ Family reunification guidance
✅ Tax planning and permanent residency support

🌏 Trusted by clients from New Zealand, Australia, USA, UK, and Canada.

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📦 Greece Immigration Options: Quick Comparison

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🛂 Tips for a Smooth Move

• Start your application at least 3 months in advance

• Budget for Greek tax ID (AFM), legal fees, translations, and relocation services

• Join New Zealander expat communities in Athens, Thessaloniki, or Crete