Full information on how to get documents in Greece and what we need in general to live legally and have the right to work. Full review
- Types of Residency Permits in Greece
Greece offers different types of residency permits, depending on your situation:
Short-term visa (Type C, Schengen Visa): For stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is used for tourism, short business trips, or family visits.
Long-term visa (Type D): For stays over 90 days and is typically used for work, study, or family reunification. Once you enter Greece with a Type D visa, you must apply for a residence permit.
- Residency Permits for Non-EU Citizens
If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you’ll need to follow these steps to obtain a residence permit for long-term stays:
A. Applying for a National Visa (Type D)
Before entering Greece, you need to apply for a long-term visa (Type D) at a Greek consulate in your home country. You can apply under different categories, such as:
Work visa: For employment purposes.
Study visa: For attending university or other educational programs.
Self-employment or investment visa: For business purposes.
Family reunification visa: If you’re joining a family member who legally resides in Greece.
Documents needed for a Type D visa application include:
A valid passport (with at least two blank pages and valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay).
Completed visa application form.
Recent passport-sized photographs.
Proof of travel medical insurance.
Proof of accommodation (rental contract or an invitation letter from a family member).
Proof of sufficient financial means.
Specific documents based on your visa category (employment contract, admission letter from a university, etc.).
B. Residence Permit Application (Post-Arrival)
Once you have arrived in Greece, you will need to apply for a residence permit within the validity period of your Type D visa. Residence permits are typically issued for 1-5 years, depending on the type of permit.
- Work Permit for Non-EU Nationals
To legally work in Greece as a non-EU citizen, you will need both a residence permit and a work permit. The work permit is linked to your residence status.
Requirements for a work permit include:
A valid employment contract from a Greek employer.
Proof that your employer cannot fill the position with an EU/EEA citizen.
Social security registration (AMKA number).
Tax registration number (AFM).
Steps for obtaining a work permit:
Secure a job offer from a Greek employer before you apply for the Type D visa.
Apply for the Type D visa at your local Greek consulate based on your job offer.
Once in Greece, your employer must submit the required documentation to the Greek Ministry of Migration.
Apply for a residence permit with work authorization at the One-Stop Service for Foreign Citizens.
Note: If you are self-employed or starting a business, you’ll need a special visa and residence permit tailored to entrepreneurs.
- Other Long-Term Residency Options for Non-EU Citizens
Investor Visa (“Golden Visa”): For those investing at least €250,000 in Greek real estate or other eligible investments. This visa grants residency rights without the need for employment.
Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers wishing to live in Greece while working for companies outside the country. - Family Reunification
If you have close family members (spouse, minor children) already living in Greece legally, you may apply for a family reunification visa. - Residency for EU/EEA Citizens
EU/EEA citizens have the right to move freely within the EU and do not need a visa to enter Greece. However, if you plan to stay in Greece for more than 90 days, you’ll need to register and obtain a Certificate of Registration (Veveosi Engrafis). After five years of continuous residence, EU citizens can apply for permanent residency.
Documents for the Certificate of Registration:
Passport or national ID.
Proof of employment or self-employment (e.g., employment contract, tax declarations).
Proof of accommodation (rental agreement or property deed).
Proof of sufficient financial resources (for students or pensioners).
Proof of health insurance (European Health Insurance Card or Greek health insurance).
- Living Legally in Greece: Documents and Procedures
A. Tax Identification Number (AFM)
Anyone residing or working in Greece needs a Tax Identification Number (AFM), which is essential for opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, and paying taxes.
To obtain an AFM:
Go to the nearest local tax office (DOY).
Bring your passport, proof of residence (rental contract), and application form.
B. Social Security Number (AMKA)
You need an AMKA number for access to Greece’s healthcare system, to work legally, and to register for social security. This is mandatory for employees and self-employed individuals.
To get an AMKA:
Visit the local Citizen Service Center (KEP) or social security office.
Provide your passport, proof of residence, and AFM.
C. Opening a Bank Account
Opening a Greek bank account is important for receiving wages and paying rent or utility bills. To open an account, you will need:
A valid passport.
AFM (tax number).
Proof of residence (rental agreement or utility bill).
Proof of employment (if applicable).
- Health Insurance Requirements
All residents in Greece must have health insurance, either through the public healthcare system (after receiving an AMKA) or private insurance. Non-EU citizens must prove they have health insurance when applying for a residence permit.
Public healthcare: If employed in Greece, your employer will register you in the public system (EOPYY), and you’ll receive access to healthcare services.
Private healthcare: If you are not employed, you will need to purchase private health insurance, especially during your visa application process.
- Cost of Living and Integration into Greek Society
Living in Greece can be affordable, but the cost of living varies based on the city. Athens and Thessaloniki tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns and islands offer a lower cost of living.
Key considerations:
Rent: €300-700 for a one-bedroom apartment in larger cities; lower in rural areas.
Utilities: €100-200 per month for electricity, water, and heating.
Groceries: €200-400 per month, depending on your lifestyle.
Public transport: Affordable, with monthly passes in Athens costing about €30.
- Permanent Residency and Citizenship
A. Permanent Residency
After living legally in Greece for five years, you can apply for permanent residency. Permanent residents enjoy similar rights to Greek citizens, except for voting in national elections.
Requirements:
Continuous legal residence for five years.
Proof of financial stability.
Health insurance coverage.
B. Greek Citizenship
After seven years of legal residency, non-EU citizens can apply for Greek citizenship through naturalization. You must demonstrate integration into Greek society, knowledge of the Greek language, and involvement in the community.
Key requirements for citizenship:
Continuous legal residence for seven years.
Greek language proficiency.
Good character and no criminal record.
Participation in social, economic, and cultural life.
- Important Tips for Living and Working in Greece
Language: While many Greeks speak English, learning Greek can significantly ease daily life and improve job prospects, especially in smaller towns.
Networking: Building a network through social or professional groups can help with job searching and integration.
Legal Assistance: Consulting with a Greek immigration lawyer or advisor can help with navigating complex legal and bureaucratic processes, especially if you’re applying for work permits or residency under specific categories (like the Golden Visa).
Conclusion
Living and working in Greece legally requires following specific steps depending on your nationality, employment situation, and length of stay. Obtaining the correct visas and permits, registering with tax and social security authorities, and ensuring you have appropriate health insurance are critical. Once these legal requirements are in place, you can enjoy the beauty, culture, and lifestyle that Greece has to offer.
