Greece is one of the sunniest countries in Europe, attracting thousands of migrants every year, with immigration reaching 132,149 people last year — the highest level in the past five years. The cradle of Western civilization is also known for its relaxed lifestyle, warm climate, picturesque landscapes, and relatively affordable cost of living. The country offers accessible immigration programmes for various categories of applicants, including entrepreneurs, freelancers, and retirees wishing to settle in Europe and enjoy all the advantages of EU residency.

Moving to Greece is an opportunity to live in a country with a high level of wellbeing and safety while enjoying its cultural and natural heritage. Here you can find both dynamic metropolitan cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki and peaceful islands ideal for families. At the same time, immigration to Greece from abroad requires careful preparation and compliance with all legal requirements. In this guide, we will examine the available immigration programmes, the stages of legalising status, and the key aspects of life in a country where history and modernity coexist.

Reasons to Choose Greece for Relocation

Greece is a popular destination for relocation, especially among migrants from outside the EU, because of the advantages available to EU residents. The country offers convenient immigration programmes for investors, remote workers, and freelancers, while actively supporting entrepreneurship. Greece also provides broad employment and career opportunities, particularly in tourism, real estate, and agriculture. Tax rates are generally lower than in France, the Netherlands, and several other Western European countries.

Special attention should be given to the culture of this ancient country and the friendly mentality of local residents, which helps newcomers adapt more quickly. Greece is famous for its hospitality, respect for traditions, and unique atmosphere reflected in its ancient landmarks, colourful festivals, and cuisine. A high quality of life is supported by accessible healthcare, safety, and a comfortable climate. The country has both public and private schools, while higher education is represented by universities and technological institutes, including the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

When planning a move, it is important to choose the correct immigration basis and carefully evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of living in this Balkan country. The choice of immigration programme should depend on the purpose of relocation: a digital nomad visa may suit remote workers, a financially independent person residence permit may fit those with passive income, the Golden Visa programme may be relevant for property buyers and investors, while employment-based residence is suitable for those planning to work in Greece.

Experienced specialists can help develop the fastest and most suitable legalisation strategy based on your individual circumstances. You will not need to navigate complex immigration legislation alone, as legal professionals can manage the key stages of the process and ensure compliance with all migration requirements. Start your path toward relocation to Europe today by booking a free consultation.

Main Stages of Moving to Greece

Immigration to Greece is a multi-stage process that requires compliance with legal requirements, which is why it is advisable to seek professional assistance when organising the move. After choosing the immigration basis, it is necessary to obtain a visa that allows entry into the country and the acquisition of a residence permit. It is then important to register your place of residence, open a bank account, and obtain a tax identification number (AFM, Attribution of Tax Identification Number), which is mandatory for employment.

Choosing the Basis for Relocation

To move to Greece, applicants may use various immigration pathways that allow them to obtain a residence permit. The requirements for residence permit applicants, as well as the full list of grounds and supporting documents for each category, are set out in Law No. 5038/2023 “Immigration Code.” The current relocation options include:

• Family Reunification.
  If you have already been legally residing in Greece for at least 2 years, you may apply for family reunification. This usually applies to a spouse or registered partner, as well as children under the age of 18. The key requirement is to demonstrate that your family will have adequate living conditions, including accommodation, medical insurance, and stable income. The minimum required income starts from EUR 920 per month. If a spouse or partner joins you, an additional 20% must be added, and 15% more for each child. This means that a couple should generally show around EUR 1,104 per month, while a family with one child should demonstrate approximately EUR 1,242 per month. The residence permit duration for family members is usually linked to the sponsor’s permit. If you already hold long-term resident status, your family members may receive a 3-year residence permit with the possibility of extension.
• Marriage to a Greek Citizen.
  If your spouse or registered partner is a Greek citizen, you may apply for a type O.3 residence card. It is generally issued for 5 years if the couple can confirm the family relationship through marriage or a cohabitation agreement. After 5 years, the card may be converted into a 10-year M.2 residence permit, provided continuous residence in Greece can be proven. If this condition is not met, the card is usually extended for another 5 years. Citizenship may later be requested. Under the standard procedure, this becomes available after 7 years of legal residence in Greece, but for the spouse of a Greek citizen the period may be reduced to 3 years if the couple has a common child.
• Education.
  To move to Greece for study purposes, applicants must obtain a national visa and apply for a type H.1 student residence permit. The basis is admission to a Greek university or another legally recognised educational programme. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds for living expenses and return travel (approximately EUR 650 per month), medical insurance, and payment of tuition fees if applicable. Minors require parental consent, while knowledge of the Greek language is only required if requested by the educational programme. The residence permit is generally issued for 1 year with the right to extension or for the duration of studies if confirmed by the educational institution.
• Employment.
  If you have found an employer in Greece, a work residence permit may be obtained on the basis of an employment contract. In most cases, the contract must be concluded for at least 1 year, and the salary must meet the established minimum threshold: for full-time employment, this is from EUR 920 per month. The application must include medical insurance and documents confirming the right to work under the chosen category. In some cases, diplomas, proof of experience, or professional qualification documents may also be required.
  For highly qualified professionals, there is a separate option — the EU Blue Card. Under this scheme, the salary threshold is higher than the ordinary minimum, generally starting from EUR 2,660 per month. The permit is issued for 2 years and may later be extended for 3 years. After 5 years of legal residence in Greece, applicants may qualify for long-term resident status.
• Investment.
  One of the most convenient options for those wishing to obtain legal status in the EU through real-estate investment. The permit is issued for 5 years and may be extended for the same period provided the investment is maintained. The minimum investment threshold depends on the region: in most locations it starts from EUR 400,000, while in Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and major islands the threshold is from EUR 800,000. Investments starting from EUR 250,000 are possible for certain types of property, such as buildings requiring restoration or properties converted into residential use.
  Applicants must prove the lawful origin of funds, payment for the investment, and provide supporting property documents such as purchase agreements, construction or reconstruction contracts, long-term lease agreements, or timeshare contracts. The programme is attractive because it does not require permanent residence in Greece to renew the permit, and family members may also obtain status together with the investor. Long-term resident status may be requested after 5 years of actual residence in Greece.
• Financial Independence.
  This residence permit without work rights is suitable, for example, for freelancers with foreign income or retirees receiving pensions abroad who wish to relocate to Greece. To obtain this residence status, applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means — at least EUR 3,500 per month — and hold private medical insurance.
  The permit is issued for 3 years with the possibility of extension for the same period. It is convenient because it allows residence in Greece on the basis of foreign income without the need for employment or large investments. The permit does not grant the right to salaried employment or independent economic activity in Greece, but after 5 years of actual residence applicants may qualify for long-term resident status subject to additional conditions.
• Humanitarian Reasons.
  Residence permits are available for vulnerable categories of applicants, including victims of human trafficking, racist violence, domestic violence, or persons suffering from serious illnesses. The permit may also be issued to individuals who were not granted refugee status. Applicants must provide evidence of the objective impossibility of being returned to their country of origin or habitual residence and present a valid passport. The initial permit is generally issued for 1 year with the possibility of extension under similar conditions. Document processing expenses are covered by the state, although a EUR 16 fee is charged for issuing the electronic residence card.

Preparing the Required Documents

To immigrate to Greece, applicants must prepare a complete document package that allows them to obtain a residence permit. The mandatory documents for a residence permit application generally include:

• proof of payment of the application fee;
• a passport or another valid identity document;
• a type D visa;
• health insurance;
• proof of residence in Greece (not required for the E.4 work residence permit category);
• proof of sufficient financial means (if applicable).

Depending on the immigration basis chosen for relocation to Greece, additional supporting documents may be required, such as an employment contract, a residence permit of a sponsoring family member, and other relevant evidence.

Submitting the Application, Processing Times, and Residence Permit Costs

To move to Greece and stay in the country for more than 90 days, it is necessary to obtain a residence permit. In most cases, applications are submitted online — either personally, through an authorised lawyer, or by parents or legal guardians on behalf of minor applicants. The application process consists of several stages, each of which is limited to 30 minutes, so careful preparation and having all required documents ready is essential.

The processing time ranges from 1 month to 90 days. The cost of a residence permit varies from EUR 150 to EUR 2,000 depending on the applicant category (family reunification applications are generally exempt from the fee). Applicants must also pay a EUR 16 fee for the issuance of the residence card. Residence permits are issued for periods ranging from 1 to 5 years.

Visa and Immigration Features

Regardless of the chosen immigration pathway to Greece, applicants generally require the appropriate travel document to enter and stay in the country. Citizens and residents of the European Union may enter Greece freely. Other foreign nationals usually need a visa issued by a Greek consulate.

To relocate to Greece and obtain a residence permit, applicants generally need a long-stay type D visa. This visa is valid for up to one year and serves as the basis for temporary residence status. The visa application fee is EUR 180, while students pay a reduced fee of EUR 90.

Residence Permit Application Procedure

To relocate to Greece, it is necessary to obtain a residence permit. Applications are submitted online through the official portal of the Ministry of Migration and Asylum with payment of a registration fee, the amount of which depends on the applicant category and starts from EUR 150, while for investors it may reach EUR 2,000. The application must include documents confirming the purpose of immigration, such as an employment contract, birth or marriage certificate, and other supporting evidence.

After the successful submission of the application, applicants receive an electronic confirmation known as the “Blue Certificate” (Μπλε Βεβαίωση). To obtain the residence permit card, it is necessary to visit a police department or passport office and provide biometric data, including a photograph, fingerprints, and signature. For certain applicant categories, biometric appointments are scheduled through the Ministry of Migration’s online service. The validity period of the residence permit depends on the immigration basis and may be issued for up to 5 years. Residence permits may be renewed under the same conditions on which the initial permit was granted.

Conditions for Obtaining Permanent Residence and Citizenship

To obtain permanent residence after relocating to Greece, it is necessary to live in the country for at least 5 years. It is important to note that applying for permanent residence without knowledge of the language is generally not possible. Applicants for permanent residence must provide a certificate confirming knowledge of Greek at a level not lower than B1 or submit other acceptable proof. Additional requirements include having valid health insurance, a valid residence permit, proof of payment of the application fee (from EUR 150), and tax declarations demonstrating sufficient income.

The standard residence period for naturalisation is 7 years of legal residence, provided that the applicant holds one of the residence statuses provided for by law, such as long-term resident status, family member of a Greek or EU citizen, recognised refugee status, investor status, or residence based on property ownership. If the foreign national holds another type of valid residence permit not included in this list, the required residence period increases to 12 years. Temporary residence permits are not accepted for citizenship applications.

After completing the required period of residence in Greece, applicants may apply for Greek citizenship if they meet the following conditions:

• no criminal convictions during the 10 years preceding the naturalisation application;
• possession of a valid residence permit;
• knowledge of the Greek language, culture, history, and state institutions (confirmed through the naturalisation examination);
• sufficient income and compliance with insurance and tax obligations;
•  payment of the application fee of EUR 550, or EUR 100 for EU citizens and recognised refugees.

The oath of citizenship must be taken within one year after the publication of the naturalisation decree in the Government Gazette; otherwise, the naturalisation decision will be cancelled.

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Life in Greece: Reviews and Practical Information

Before immigrating to Greece, it is worth becoming familiar with the lifestyle, everyday realities, and adaptation process in the new country, as well as reading reviews from people who have already relocated there.

Popular Greek Cities for Living

According to reviews, immigrants consider Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, and Ioannina among the most comfortable Greek cities for relocation. Athens is the country’s largest business and cultural centre, offering more job opportunities, international companies, coworking spaces, private schools, and services for foreigners. At the same time, rental prices and everyday expenses are usually higher than in regional cities. One of the capital’s major advantages is its developed metro system and proximity to the sea: from many districts, it is possible to quickly reach the beaches of the Athens Riviera.

Thessaloniki is suitable for those who want to live in a large city but with a calmer pace of life. The city has a strong student environment thanks to Aristotle University and the University of Macedonia, as well as numerous cafés, cultural venues, and events. Thessaloniki is also convenient for travelling around the Balkans due to its airport and strategic role as an important transport and trade hub.

Patras is often chosen by people looking for a less crowded city with access to the sea and a more moderate cost of living. It is one of Greece’s main ports, which means logistics, trade, transport, and tourism are well developed there. Another advantage is its active youthful atmosphere created by the University of Patras and one of Greece’s most famous carnivals.

Ioannina, the capital of the Epirus region, attracts residents with its peaceful atmosphere, natural surroundings, and relatively comfortable conditions for family life. The city is located near Lake Pamvotida and close to mountains and national parks, making it suitable for people who value nature and a slower lifestyle. In recent years, Ioannina has also been developing as a technology hub, with IT companies operating in the area and the local university helping to build a talent base for innovative projects.

Cost of Living in 2026

Immigrants who choose Greece for relocation often note the relatively low cost of living compared to many other EU countries. Monthly expenses for one person start from approximately EUR 776, while a family of four typically needs around EUR 2,742 per month. Renting a one-bedroom apartment costs around EUR 384 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment averages approximately EUR 664. At the same time, the average salary remains lower than the EU average, amounting to around EUR 1,516 per month in 2026.

Greece also offers comparatively affordable real-estate prices, attracting a growing number of foreign investors. The average property sale price is around EUR 2,273 per square metre (for comparison: approximately EUR 4,380 in Germany and EUR 4,350 in the Netherlands). Rental and property searches are usually conducted through agencies or local real-estate platforms such as Rentola.gr, Spitogatos, and similar services.

Healthcare and Education

The healthcare system includes both public and private institutions that provide free medical assistance for insured residents. At the same time, many residents prefer private healthcare services because of shorter waiting times and a higher level of service. In major cities, hospitals often experience overcrowding due to uneven population distribution.

Education in Greece is compulsory and free for children between the ages of 4 and 15, including kindergarten attendance. Universities offer programmes in both Greek and English, particularly in fields such as tourism and business. Graduates receive European-standard diplomas that open opportunities for employment and career development throughout Europe.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Moving to Greece

Immigration with the acquisition of Greek residence status allows foreigners to enjoy almost all the rights and advantages associated with European residency, except for the right to vote or hold public office. Among the main advantages of relocating to Greece are:

• visa-free travel within EU and Schengen countries, including Norway, Switzerland, Spain, and others;
• the opportunity to run a business under favourable conditions and use secure banking services;
• the right to purchase real estate and apply for mortgage loans;
• access to healthcare services and social assistance, including unemployment benefits and pensions;
• the possibility of obtaining a European passport in the future;
• access to prestigious European universities at reduced tuition costs compared to non-EU residents;
• the right to family reunification.

Despite the many advantages, immigration may also involve certain difficulties. Residence permit applications submitted without professional assistance are often delayed because of incomplete documentation or other procedural issues. Another significant disadvantage is the relatively high unemployment rate (9.4%) and salaries that remain lower than in many other European Union countries.

To properly evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of moving to Greece or other EU countries and receive the most suitable immigration strategy, it is advisable to consult specialists. Book a free consultation with an international immigration expert who can answer your questions and provide an individual solution for fast legalisation of status in Europe.

How to Simplify the Immigration Process to Greece

If you want to relocate as quickly as possible and gain access to all the opportunities available to residents of Greece, it is important to choose the correct immigration basis. Special attention should also be paid to preparing documents and taking into account current legislative changes. Although Greece offers various immigration programmes, including options for business immigrants and financially independent persons, all of them require obtaining and renewing residence permits, while the naturalisation process generally takes at least 7 years. An alternative may be obtaining EU citizenship in countries with more accessible immigration procedures, such as Romania, Bulgaria, or Slovenia.

A simplified programme is often more advantageous than traditional immigration to Greece if the applicant wants immediate long-term freedom of movement instead of depending on residence permit renewals, proof of income, proof of address, or maintaining investments. After obtaining an EU passport, a person may relocate to Greece already as a European Union citizen — with simpler registration rules, direct access to the labour market, and the ability to freely change the country of residence within the EU.

Legal professionals can help identify the most suitable programme for your situation, verify eligibility, prepare documents, correct errors in personal records, organise translations and legalisation, and provide support throughout the application process. This significantly reduces the risk of refusal and simplifies the procedure, since applicants do not need to independently navigate the requirements of different countries, deadlines, fees, and migration rules. Professional assistance with relocation to Greece is often the simplest and fastest way to move to this Balkan country.