Greece is one of the most attractive destinations for foreigners seeking a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, beautiful property, and access to the EU. Whether you want to retire, work remotely, or invest, there are multiple legal ways to get residency in Greece.
This guide explains the main residence permits available to non-EU citizens, how to qualify, and how Borderless Lawyers helps you through the entire process.
🧾 Do You Need a Visa or Residence Permit?
It depends on your nationality:
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🇪🇺 EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: No visa needed. You must register after 90 days.
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🌍 Non-EU citizens (e.g. US, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.): You’ll need either a national visa (Type D) or a residence permit.
🔑 Main Residency Options for Foreigners in Greece
1. 💶 Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa
Ideal for: retirees, remote workers with passive income
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Minimum income: €2,000/month (plus €400–€600 per dependent)
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Must not work for Greek clients
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Requires proof of savings, insurance, and accommodation
✅ Renewable annually
✅ Can lead to permanent residency
❌ Work not allowed in Greece
2. 🧑💻 Digital Nomad Visa / Permit
Ideal for: remote workers employed or freelancing for non-Greek clients
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Monthly income: €3,500+ (after taxes)
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Valid for up to 2 years (initial 1 + 1 renewal)
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Can include spouse and children
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Tax incentives may apply (up to 50% exemption in some cases)
✅ Quick approval
✅ Work remotely from Greece
❌ Must not have Greek clients or run a Greek business
3. 🏠 Golden Visa (Real Estate Investment Residence Permit)
⚠️ The Greek Golden Visa is still available, but only for minimum investments of:
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€250,000 in specific low-demand regions
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€500,000 in Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Thessaloniki
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Valid for 5 years, renewable
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No requirement to live in Greece
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Includes spouse, children, and dependent parents
✅ Fast-track residency
✅ No minimum stay
❌ No direct path to citizenship unless you reside in Greece
🧑⚖️ Borderless Lawyers provides real estate sourcing + legal due diligence + POA purchase for Golden Visa clients.
4. 🧑🎓 Student Visa (Higher Education in Greece)
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For non-EU citizens accepted into Greek universities
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Requires proof of tuition, accommodation, and funds
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Renewable annually during studies
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Can be a stepping stone to other permits later
✅ Low cost of living
✅ Legal stay during studies
❌ Limited work rights
5. 💍 Family Reunification / Spouse of Greek or EU Citizen
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For non-EU spouses or dependents of Greek or EU nationals residing in Greece
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Requires marriage certificate, residence proof, and health insurance
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Grants same rights as sponsor (including work rights)
✅ Fast-track processing
✅ Path to long-term residency
❌ Must prove ongoing family relationship
6. 🏢 Employment or Business Visa
For skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, or those establishing a Greek company.
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Requires employer sponsorship or company registration
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Higher documentation burden
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Often more bureaucratic than other paths
✅ Long-term stay potential
✅ Full work rights
❌ Requires business plan, tax numbers, and registration
🗂️ Documents Typically Required for Greek Residency
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Valid passport
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Visa (if applicable)
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Proof of income or employment
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Greek tax number (AFM)
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Health insurance (Greek or EU-compliant)
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Greek bank account (in most cases)
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Lease or property ownership deed
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Criminal record check (translated + apostilled)
📍 Where and How to Apply
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National Visa (Type D): Apply at the Greek consulate in your country
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Residence Permit: Apply in Greece through the Migration Department
🧑💼 Borderless Lawyers helps with both consular applications and in-country filings — including Power of Attorney if you’re not in Greece yet.
⏳ Processing Time & Validity
| Permit Type | Processing | Initial Validity |
|---|---|---|
| FIP Visa | 1–3 months | 2 years |
| Digital Nomad | 2–4 weeks | 1–2 years |
| Golden Visa | 2–4 months | 5 years |
| Student | 4–8 weeks | 1 year |
| Family/Spouse | 1–3 months | 1–2 years |
📅 Can You Renew or Switch Residency Type?
Yes. Most permits are:
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Renewable (as long as you meet the conditions)
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Possible to switch between categories (e.g., from FIP to business permit)
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Eligible for permanent residency after 5 years (with physical presence)
🧠 Important Tips
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🔒 Don’t overstay your tourist visa — apply before expiry
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🧾 Keep Greek tax filings up to date (even with zero income)
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💬 All documents must be translated to Greek by a certified translator
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🏦 Most processes require a Greek bank account
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🧑⚖️ Always have a local lawyer to avoid delays or rejections
💼 Why Borderless Lawyers?
We provide end-to-end immigration support:
✅ Help choose the best visa option
✅ Draft & translate all required documents
✅ Book consulate appointments
✅ Act under POA if you’re abroad
✅ Handle residence permit filings in Greece
✅ Assist with renewals, family inclusion & property tie-ins
Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or investing — we make Greek residency simple and secure.
❓ FAQ – Getting Residency in Greece
Q: Can I apply for residency without speaking Greek?
A: Yes. Most visa paths have no language requirement, including the FIP, Golden Visa, and Digital Nomad permit.
Q: Can I include my spouse or children?
A: Yes — most permits allow dependent inclusion with proper documentation.
Q: Can I get Greek citizenship later?
A: Yes, after 7 years of legal and physical residence, you may qualify to apply for Greek citizenship.
🏛️ Live Legally and Comfortably in Greece
Greece welcomes international residents — if you follow the legal process. Whether you’re moving for sunshine, investment, or freedom, Borderless Lawyers is your legal partner in making Greece your new home.
👉 Book a residency consultation today and let us match you with the right Greek permit.