Looking to relocate employees to Greece for a branch office, startup, or long-term assignment? This guide outlines the legal, visa, and logistical requirements for personnel relocation to Greece β whether for intra-company transfers, hiring non-EU talent, or expanding global teams.
π Why Choose Greece for Personnel Relocation?
-
π Strategic location bridging Europe, the Middle East, and Africa
-
πΈ Competitive cost of living and office space
-
π§βπ» Access to tech and remote talent hubs (Athens, Thessaloniki)
-
π Attractive lifestyle for expats and families
-
π Growing sectors: tech, finance, energy, shipping, tourism
π Visa Options for Personnel Relocation to Greece
Here are the most relevant visa and residence permit options when relocating staff to Greece:
1. π§³ Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit
For multinational companies relocating managers, specialists, or trainees to a Greek branch.
-
Valid for 1β3 years (depending on role)
-
For non-EU employees already employed at least 3 months
-
Includes family reunification
-
Must be on the Greek entity’s payroll
2. π©βπΌ Highly Skilled Employee Visa (EU Blue Card)
For non-EU nationals with high qualifications and job offers in Greece.
-
Minimum annual salary threshold
-
Requires higher education or equivalent professional experience
-
Valid for 2 years, renewable
-
Fast-track path to permanent residency and citizenship
3. π» Digital Nomad Visa (Remote Work)
For remote personnel not hired by a Greek company but working online from Greece.
-
β¬3,500/month income threshold
-
Cannot work for Greek clients or companies
-
Family members can relocate as dependents
4. π§Ύ Standard Work Visa (National Type D Visa)
For employees hired by a Greek company.
-
Requires employment contract and proof of labor market need
-
Sponsored by the Greek employer
-
Converts to a residence permit upon arrival in Greece
π¦ What Does Personnel Relocation Involve?
Relocating personnel to Greece involves more than just a visa. Here’s what your team needs:
β
Visa and residence permit
β
Greek tax number (AFM)
β
Social security number (AMKA)
β
Health insurance registration
β
Bank account setup
β
Local address and rental contract
β
Spouse/family visa support
β
Language and cultural integration (optional)
ποΈ Where to Apply
-
βοΈ Employees typically apply for work visas at the Greek Consulate in their home country
-
π’ Residence permits are finalized in Greece at the local Aliens and Immigration Office
π Relocation Destinations in Greece
-
Athens β Headquarters and tech/startup hub
-
Thessaloniki β Ideal for regional offices and cultural appeal
-
Heraklion & Patras β Academic partnerships and tech research
-
Chania & Rhodes β Remote work teams or creative industry placements
βοΈ Borderless Lawyers: Your Personnel Relocation Partner
We help companies and HR teams relocate employees to Greece with full legal compliance.
Our Corporate Relocation Services Include:
πΉ Visa and permit processing (ICT, Blue Card, Digital Nomad, D visa)
πΉ Employee and family onboarding
πΉ Tax ID, healthcare, banking setup
πΉ Property rental assistance
πΉ Employment contract review (under Greek labor law)
πΉ Ongoing immigration compliance
π© Contact us for a custom corporate quote or multi-employee relocation package.
π Summary Table: Visa Options for Relocating Personnel to Greece
| Visa Type | For Whom | Can Include Family | Max Duration | Path to Citizenship |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intra-Company Transfer | Non-EU internal staff | β | 3 years | β (with extension) |
| EU Blue Card | Skilled professionals | β | 2 years | β |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Remote workers | β | 1β2 years | β (after renewal) |
| Standard Work Visa | New hires in Greece | β | 1β2 years | β |
π§ Employer Tips for Smooth Personnel Relocation
-
Start visa planning at least 2β3 months in advance
-
Ensure employment contracts are compliant with Greek labor codes
-
Assign a relocation officer or use third-party legal support
-
Provide housing and tax assistance to employees and families
-
Consider language and cultural orientation sessions