Dreaming of sun-soaked beaches, affordable living, and a peaceful European lifestyle? Greece offers retirees everything from ancient culture to coastal villages. This guide shows you how to retire to Greece legally, what lifestyle to expect, and how Borderless Lawyers can assist every step of the way.
🌞 Why Retire in Greece?
Greece is becoming one of the top retirement destinations for expats from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and South Africa thanks to:
-
🏖️ Over 200 islands with a Mediterranean climate
-
💶 Affordable cost of living and healthcare
-
🏥 Access to both private and public health services
-
🏛️ Rich history, culture, and cuisine
-
🛂 Residency options that lead to long-term stay or even citizenship
👴 What Visa Do You Need to Retire in Greece?
To retire in Greece as a non-EU citizen, the most common visa option is:
🧾 Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa
This is ideal for retirees who can support themselves without working in Greece.
Key requirements:
-
Monthly income: €2,000+ per person (from pension, investments, savings)
-
Valid passport
-
Private health insurance
-
No work allowed under this visa
-
Family members (spouse and children) can apply as dependents
-
Initial validity: 2 years, renewable
🛂 Path to Residency & Citizenship
| Permit Type | Duration | Renewable | Permanent Residency | Citizenship Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FIP Permit | 2 years | ✅ | After 5 years | After 7 years |
| Digital Nomad Visa (if semi-retired) | 1 year | ✅ | After 5 years | After 7 years |
Note: You must live in Greece at least 183 days per year to qualify for permanent residency or citizenship.
💶 Cost of Living in Greece for Retirees
| Expense | Avg. Monthly Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed apt) | €400–€700 |
| Utilities & Internet | €100–€150 |
| Groceries | €250–€400 |
| Private Health Insurance | €60–€120 |
| Dining Out | €10–€25 per meal |
| Total (Comfortable) | €1,200–€1,800 |
These figures vary depending on whether you live in Athens, Thessaloniki, or a Greek island.
🏥 Healthcare in Greece
-
Greece has universal public healthcare, but private coverage is recommended for retirees
-
You’ll need private health insurance for your FIP visa application
-
Many private hospitals in Athens and Thessaloniki offer English-speaking doctors
📍 Best Places to Retire in Greece
-
Chania (Crete) – Ideal island lifestyle with hospitals and an airport
-
Nafplio – Peaceful seaside town with Venetian charm
-
Thessaloniki – Affordable second-largest city with modern amenities
-
Rhodes – History, beauty, and expat-friendly
-
Peloponnese (Kalamata, Gythio) – Olive groves, quiet towns, authentic lifestyle
🧾 How to Retire in Greece: Step-by-Step
-
✅ Choose your visa: FIP Visa is ideal
-
🏛️ Apply at the Greek consulate in your home country
-
📄 Gather documents:
-
Pension statements or proof of income
-
Bank balance confirmation
-
Health insurance
-
Clean criminal record
-
-
✈️ Enter Greece and apply for residence permit within 90 days
-
🏠 Register your Greek address, tax ID (AFM), and healthcare
⚖️ Borderless Lawyers: Retire to Greece with Confidence
We support retirees from all over the world with:
✔️ Full visa application guidance
✔️ Translations and certified documents
✔️ Health insurance setup
✔️ Real estate and rental assistance
✔️ Residency renewals and citizenship support
✔️ Local tax registration and legal advice
📞 Free consultations available. Let our experienced legal team guide your retirement move.
🧳 Additional Tips for Retiring to Greece
-
Learn basic Greek to ease daily life
-
Visit different towns before deciding where to settle
-
Consider dual taxation treaties with your home country
-
Stay updated on healthcare access and insurance rules
📞 Ready to Start Your Retirement in Greece?
Contact Borderless Lawyers to plan your move stress-free.