Guide to Greece: Overview of Life, Vacation and Residence Permits

Greece is a country that has everything: from scenic landscapes with olive groves and turquoise shores to majestic ancient ruins echoing with myths and legends. Its rich history and vibrant culture, friendly locals, warm climate, and the allure of the Mediterranean lifestyle attract millions of tourists from around the world each year. For many, Greece is not just a dream holiday destination — it’s a comfortable European country to move to and live in.

Here’s everything you need to know about it: key aspects of life, must-see places and cultural highlights, relocation opportunities, and other features that make Greece unique.

General Information About Greece

Official name: Hellenic Republic

Area: 131,957 sq.km

Population: 10,410,000

Capital: Athens

Official language: Greek

Currency: Euro

Memberships: European Union, NATO, United Nations, Council of Europe, OSCE, UN Security Council. Part of the Schengen Area and the Eurozone.

Where is Greece: Location and Landscape

Greece is located in the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula and is bordered by the Mediterranean, Aegean, Ionian, and Libyan Seas. In addition to the mainland and the Peloponnese Peninsula, the country includes over 2,000 islands—around 200 of which are inhabited. The land borders stretch for 1,100 km, and the coastline spans over 15,000 km. Neighboring countries include Albania, Turkey, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria.

Greece is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe—over 80% of its territory is occupied by mountains and plateaus, with a quarter being mountain ranges rising above 1,200 m. The highest point in the country is Mount Olympus (Mytikas peak, 2,917 m), located in the Pindus range near the northern border with Albania.

Climate and Natural Features

Greece’s climate varies by region. In mountainous areas, temperatures drop with altitude, and snow covers the peaks for most of the year. On the coast and islands, the Mediterranean climate prevails—hot, dry summers and mild winters. The mainland has a more temperate climate, with cooler summers and greater temperature swings in winter.

Greece has more than 300 sunny days per year. The best time to visit is from April to October. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures in July and August reaching 35-40°C, and sea temperatures rising to 24-26°C. Winters are mild and wet, with rare and short storms and temperatures rarely dropping below zero.

Greece boasts incredibly diverse and picturesque nature: national parks, reserves, pristine beaches, and breathtaking landscapes. The list of natural attractions is endless — it’s better to see it all in person: Samaria Gorge and the Valley of the Butterflies, the Peacock Forest on Kos, Mount Olympus and Parnassus, the volcanic beaches of Santorini, Lake Paleokastritsa, and the Melissani Cave.

History and Cultural Heritage

Greece has over 7,000 years of history. After the remains of ancient humans and Neolithic settlements, the great Cycladic, Minoan, and Mycenaean civilizations stepped in — followed centuries later by the city-states of Ancient Greece, the Macedonian Kingdom, and the Byzantine Empire. Greece gained independence only in 1830, after liberation from the Ottoman Empire. After surviving numerous wars and conflicts, the monarchy was abolished in 1975, and Greece became a parliamentary republic with its first Constitution, embarking on the path of modern European development.

Greece is often called “the cradle of European civilization” — ethical, cultural, and spiritual values that are integral to European societies were born and developed here. Greek culture and traditions have been shaped over centuries—some date back to the times of Homer and Aristotle. Many customs are closely tied to religion and blend generously with ancient pagan rituals.

Democracy, law, philosophy, rhetoric, education, medicine, astronomy, theatre, economics, and free-market principles were founded exactly in Greece — many of the things we rely on in our daily lives. The Greek alphabet has influenced many world languages and is still used in medicine, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. The first Olympic Games were held in Greece, and they were revived in modern form here in 1896.

Of course, the world of Ancient Greece would be incomplete without its myths and legends. The Olympian pantheon, Hercules and his twelve labours, the Trojan War, the Labyrinth and the Minotaur, the Argonauts’ quest for the Golden Fleece — all of these have become a part of our global culture through books, films, and games. Ancient Greek art has profoundly influenced global cultural development.

Population and Language

Greeks are warm and expressive people. They love to laugh, argue, even bicker — and usually do it pretty loudly. There’s a humorous saying that sums up the Greek personality: “A quiet Greek is one you can’t hear beyond two blocks”. They enjoy heated discussions that can often turn into debates, but it doesn’t mean they’re rude. On the contrary, their directness comes from a deep sense of loyalty to friends and family, and hospitality and generosity toward guests are key parts of Greek culture.

Also, Greeks are never in a hurry. Their signature phrase, “siga-siga,” means “slowly-slowly.” No one’s in a rush here, but that doesn’t mean they’re lazy—they just prefer to take things at a slow pace.

The national language is Greek. In Athens and major cities, many people speak English confidently, and it’s not uncommon to hear French, German, or Italian. The farther you go from major tourist hubs, the fewer multilingual speakers you’ll find — expect Greek or regional dialects.

Economy and Living Standards

Greece is successfully coping with the 2009 financial crisis. In 2024, the Greek economy showed impressive growth, outpacing many European countries. GDP rose by 4.2%, driven by a successful tourist season, infrastructure investments, and rising exports of agricultural products — especially olive oil and wine.

Key Industries and Economic Development

Tourism is the most important sector of the economy, significantly contributing to GDP and employment. In 2024, over 35M people visited Greece — a 12% increase from 2023. Expanded air routes, growth in ecotourism, and a shift toward new regions like Northern Greece and the Peloponnese fueled this growth. Digital advancements have also made travel within Greece more convenient.

Other key industries are shipping, services, agriculture, and the food industry.

Greece has an open economy and is an active participant in international trade. Its primary trading partners are EU countries, which account for a significant portion of its trade. Major export markets include Italy, Germany, Cyprus, and other EU nations. Key exports include agricultural products (especially olive oil, wine, and fruit), industrial goods, fuel, and chemicals.

Greece is also pushing toward sustainable development and environmental protection. Thanks to the Clean Beaches programme, most of the country’s beaches have earned a Blue Flag certification. Renewable energy initiatives, marine ecosystem protection, and carbon reduction efforts are all actively developing.

Average Salaries and Cost of Living

The minimum salary in Greece has increased to €910 per month. The average monthly rate in 2024 was around €1,250.

According to Numbeo, average monthly expenses (excluding rent) are about €790 for a single person and around €2,750 for a family of four.

Renting a one-bedroom apartment is about €350-700 in city centers and from €290 in the periphery. Utility bills for an 85 sq.m apartment average around €250 per month. Food and service prices are comparable to other European countries.

*Source: Public data from Numbeo based on user submissions

Prices in Athens, major cities, and tourist hubs are typically higher than in rural or remote areas.

Taxes and Social Security System 

To become a tax resident in Greece, you have to live in the country for at least 183 days in a row per year.

The main tax rates in Greece:

Income tax – progressive rates:

• 9% for income up to €10,000
• 22% for €10,000-20,000
• 28% for €20,000-30,000
• 30% for €30,000-40,000
• 44% for income over €40,000

Property sales tax:

• 3.09% for properties (off-plan/new or secondary) with building permits issued before 01.01.2006
• 24% for off-plan/new properties with permits issued after 01.01.2006

Inheritance and gift tax: 1-40%, depending on the relationship and asset type.

Real estate taxes:

• Property registration tax: 3%
• Annual tax for individuals: 0.15-1.15% based on cadastral value (for properties worth over €250,000)
• Municipal property tax: 0.025-0.035%
• Special property tax: 15% of cadastral value

VAT is 24%, but on islands like Lesbos, Samos, Kos, Leros, and Chios – 17%. A 13% rate applies to healthcare and certain tourism businesses.

Corporate tax: 24%

Capital gains tax: 1%

Withholding tax:

• 5% on dividends
• 15% on interest
• 20% on royalties and for technical, management, consulting and other services.

Wealthy foreign residents can benefit from the Non-Dom programme, which offers a flat tax of €100,000 per year on foreign income — ideal for individuals with high global earnings. This flat rate is often far more advantageous than the 44% top income tax.

Special tax benefits are also available for:

• Pensioners: 7% flat tax on all foreign income
• New entrepreneurs and workers: 50% exemption on foreign income for 7 years

Life in Greece: Pros and Cons

Healthcare and Education

The Greek government is actively reforming and developing its healthcare system and medical tourism sector, successfully approaching high European standards. According to the Legatum Prosperity Index, Greece ranks 40th out of 165 countries in terms of health and medical care. The country has around 130 hospitals and numerous private clinics.

Public hospitals offer care to both citizens and residents, but they are often overcrowded: people can wait for several months to see a specialist. As a result, many Greeks buy private health insurance in addition to the national coverage.

In local pharmacies, only basic medications are available over the counter—such as painkillers, fever reducers, some antibiotics, and contraceptives. With a prescription and an insurance policy, you can get a discount of up to 75% on certain medications, and some are even free.

Emergency services are available to all residents at no cost — just dial 166 or 112. For tourists, ambulance services are free only in emergency situations, for hospitalization the insurance is required.

Education in Greece meets European standards: diplomas are recognized worldwide, and tuition fees are significantly lower than in countries like Italy and France.

Children are obliged to get education: 6 years of primary school, followed by 3 years of middle school. Preschool and daycare are optional, but many parents enroll their children to prepare for school. Citizens and residents can access free kindergartens and schools, while private institutions charge about €4,000 per academic year, depending on the region.

Public university education is free in Greece — you only pay a semester fee of about €750. Admission is based on academic records, with no entrance exams, and you can apply to multiple universities at once. Classes are in Greek, but many public institutions offer paid, year-long language courses for foreigners. While there are no private universities in Greece, there are private educational centers offering degrees comparable to state institutions. Tuition at these centers starts at €7,500 per year. Both domestic and international students may be eligible for scholarships and financial aid.

Social Support and Guarantees

Greece has a social support system that includes healthcare, unemployment benefits, and pensions. Citizens and residents are entitled to medical care. Benefits are available for retirement, disability, and families with children. Support is provided through financial assistance, tax relief, and social services. The amount of aid depends on employment history, income, and other factors. There are also programs for low-income and vulnerable populations. In general, benefits are available to Greek citizens and foreigners with refugee status.

Cultural Life and Traditions

For Greeks, family and religion are deeply important. They honor their ancestors, care for elderly relatives, and are often very close to extended family. Greece has the lowest divorce rate in Europe. Young couples usually marry in church, and marriage is considered a serious commitment. Children are often named after saints, and a person’s name day is celebrated even more than their birthday.

Greece is an Orthodox Christian country, where religion is strongly connected to daily life. Easter is the most significant holiday and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. On Good Friday, many businesses close, and schools and government offices don’t operate.

Greeks are also highly patriotic. One of the most important national holidays is Ohi Day (Oxi Day), celebrated since 1942 in remembrance of Greece’s defiant “No” to Italian occupation forces in 1940.

A legend tied to Cycladic architecture tells how, during World War II, German occupiers banned locals from flying the Greek flag. In response, residents of Santorini painted their homes white with bright blue roofs — the colors of the national flag —overnight, as an act of peaceful resistance.

Entertainment and Leisure

Greece offers a wide range of entertainment for both tourists and locals. History enthusiasts can explore ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, and museums filled with treasures. For those drawn to the sea, the clear waters and sunny beaches are perfect for swimming, diving, or windsurfing. At night, the country comes alive with discos, bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Greek cultural festivals are a must-see. Music, dancing, traditional costumes, and delicious food create unforgettable experiences.

The Athens Epidaurus Festival is one of the most renowned arts events in the region. Winter carnivals in Tyrnavos, Xanthi, and Nedousa are bursting with color and celebration. Ikaria hosts a Greek version of Woodstock, while Rethymno evokes a classical Venetian vibe. The Patras Carnival is one of the biggest in Europe.

Wine festivals are held in the fall, during the grape harvest. Thessaloniki, Kalamata, and Paralia host music and film festivals. Jazz fans should head to Halkidiki, lovers of world music to Ithaca, and electronic music fans to Samothraki.

Sports enthusiasts can enjoy golf, tennis, or water sports. Hiking and cycling routes provide stunning views and a great way to enjoy nature.

Holidays in Greece

The phrase “Greece has it all” applies perfectly to a holiday in this sun-drenched country. Whether you’re looking for luxury ski resorts or the best Mediterranean beaches, Greece has something for everyone. Even in the most remote corners, there’s plenty to see and do.

Popular Resorts and Cities

Each Greek city has its own unique charm.

Athens, the capital, is often the first stop for visitors. It’s a bustling, energetic city — perhaps not ideal for a quiet getaway, but an essential part of any trip to Greece. Marvel at the Parthenon and Acropolis, stroll through the picturesque Plaka neighborhood, shop in Monastiraki and Ermou, and enjoy traditional cuisine. When it’s time to cool off, head to nearby seaside resorts like Glyfada, Voula, and Vouliagmeni.

Piraeus, Athens’ closest neighbor, is one of the country’s main transport hubs. It’s Greece’s primary port — the second largest in Europe — and a key center for global shipping. Piraeus is popular for businessmen and investors, but tourists will also find plenty to keep them busy, with stores, restaurants, clubs, museums and galleries.

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is known for its rich history and architecture. The iconic White Tower, the symbol of the city, overlooks the waterfront, and the old town is lined with ancient fortress walls. The waterfront and Aristotle Square are always buzzing, and kids will love the local waterpark and amusement parks.

Heraklion, Crete’s capital, is famous for its Byzantine architecture, fortified walls, and harbor. Relax in one of the many cafés and restaurants on Liberty Square, or visit Cretaquarium and the WaterCity waterpark.

Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a magnet for history and architecture lovers. Its fortified walls, the Grand Master’s Palace, and old port transport you to the age of knights.

Fira, Santorini’s capital, looks like it’s straight from a postcard. Stay to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, sample local wines, and swim at unique black sand beaches.

Greece is one of Europe’s top tourist destinations. Its resorts are world-famous. Mykonos offers nonstop parties and stylish bars framed by whitewashed houses and windmills. Corfu is surrounded by lush olive groves and cypress trees — perfect for nature lovers and fans of Venetian architecture. Lefkada and Zakynthos are known for turquoise waters and dramatic white cliffs, ideal for beachgoers and windsurfers.

Historical and Cultural Sights

Greece’s landmarks are too many to list—and seeing them all would take months. World-famous ruins of ancient temples and sanctuaries, sunken cities, lighthouses, castles, archaeological museums, and art galleries — there’s something for everyone.

Art and religion are deeply intertwined here. Countless icons, mosaics, frescoes, monasteries, churches, temples, and cathedrals date back to the Byzantine and post-Byzantine periods. The Meteora monasteries and Mount Athos are among the world’s most significant pilgrimage sites.

Walk through the Acropolis in Athens or Lindos, visit the Palace of Knossos in Crete and the Grand Master’s Palace in Rhodes, see the Parthenon and the Sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi. And that’s just scratching the surface. There are also national parks, nature reserves, remote islands with ancient histories, waterfalls, underground lakes, and more.

Sea Travel and Beach Destinations

For Greeks, the sea is essential — no point in the country is more than 100 km from the coast. Greek ports offer access to the islands, which make up more than 20% of the country’s territory.

The Saronic Islands are perfect if you want to stay close to Athens. They get busy in season, especially Aegina, which is home to the Temple of Aphaia. Other highlights include Poros, upscale Hydra, and Spetses with its pine forests and beaches.

Crete, the largest Greek island, offers not just luxurious resorts and stunning beaches, but also historical treasures: the Palace of Knossos (legendary home of the Minotaur), monasteries, fortresses, the Samaria Gorge, Zeus’s cave, Lake Voulismeni, and a botanical park. Cretan cuisine is among the best in Greece, and local wines are exported worldwide. It’s also great for families, with waterparks, aquariums, and terrariums.

The Dodecanese Islands, near Turkey, include Rhodes and Kos. They boast beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and rich history. Patmos is home to the Cave of the Apocalypse, where John the Apostle is said to have received his Revelation.

The Sporades, with clear water, golden beaches, and lush greenery, are ideal for a quiet escape near Athens. Keep in mind that Evia gets crowded in high season, Skiathos is the most popular, Skopelos is more peaceful, and Skyros offers a perfect balance of nature, diving, and well-developed infrastructure.

The Ionian Islands combine cliffs, pine forests, and azure waters. Corfu is a popular and relatively upscale resort — one of Greece’s crown jewels. Kefalonia draws visitors with its charming villages, stunning nature, and excellent local wines.

The North Aegean Islands offer a mix of Eastern and Western influences, strong Turkish and Asia Minor elements, and a unique cultural atmosphere. Samothrace is covered in forests and vineyards. Chios is unspoiled and welcoming, with beaches and the historic Nea Moni monastery. Lesbos and Lemnos are lesser-known but full of charm.

In 2024, Greek beaches were awarded 625 Blue Flags — second only to Spain. This honor recognizes clean water, safety, and well-maintained coastal zones. From Mykonos’ luxury resorts and Santorini’s volcanic sands to Crete’s hidden coves and Zakynthos’ calm bays — there’s a perfect beach for everyone in Greece.

National Cuisine and Gastronomic Highlights

Greeks strongly believe their cuisine is unthinkable without olive oil, lemon juice, and cheese. Local dishes are a true delight for Mediterranean food lovers— fresh fish and seafood, vegetables and herbs, a wide variety of cheeses, and crusty bread. Traditional favorites include moussaka, kleftiko, stifado, and dolma. Even Greek fast food—souvlaki and gyros—has conquered the world, often considered among the healthiest options in the European fast food segment.

When it comes to alcohol, Greeks prefer wine, often mixed with water to quench thirst in the heat. Another favorite is ouzo—an anise-flavored spirit produced exclusively in Greece and Cyprus. There are even special ouzo bars called ouzeries. Traditionally, ouzo is served with ice water, though ouzo-based cocktails are becoming increasingly popular.

And of course, Greeks love their coffee—it’s practically a ritual. They drink it at every opportunity, taking their time and savoring each sip. Black coffee with water is the norm, and in summer, iced coffee drinks are especially popular.

Transport System for Tourists

Greece offers all modes of transport, though infrastructure varies by region. Some remote islands can only be reached by boat, and once there, you may be walking—or even riding a donkey. This, of course, doesn’t apply to the major cities.

Greek railways aren’t the most modern, but the Athens–Thessaloniki route is a must-try: the train passes through stunning mountain ranges and green valleys. Two other scenic and unique routes are Diakopto–Kalavryta and Volos–Milies. Otherwise, it’s usually faster and more convenient to travel by car or bus.

Buses are reliable and affordable, operating both on the mainland and to nearby islands, with ferry fares often included in the ticket.
Public transport in Athens and Thessaloniki is well-developed, including trolleybuses, trams, buses, and metro lines. Major Greek islands also have organized bus networks.

Taxis are widely used, but always watch the meter—drivers can “get lost,” and passengers end up paying for extra miles. At night, fares double, so it’s a good idea to agree on the price in advance.

To rent a car, you’ll need an international driver’s license, be between 21 and 70 years old, and have at least 3 years of driving experience.

Sea transport is a key part of Greece’s infrastructure. Ferries connect the capital and other cities with the islands. Large islands have multiple ferry departures daily, smaller ones are serviced less frequently.

Finally, domestic air travel is available throughout the country, with 11 international and 12 regional airports on the islands.

Residency in Greece

To live in a new country, you’ll need a residence permit—an official document granting the right to stay long-term. In Greece, residence permits are regulated by Immigration and Social Integration Code No. 4251.

Who Can Apply for a Greek Residence Permit

You can obtain a Greek residence permit through:

• Employment with a local job offer
• Student visa by enrolling in a Greek university
• Real estate investment under the Greek Golden Visa program
• Marriage to a Greek citizen
• Family reunification
• Starting a business in Greece
• Financial independence, with proof of sufficient income
• As a digital nomad
• Refugee or protected status

Required Documents for a Residence Permit

The general list of required documents includes:

• Valid international passport
• Residence permit application
• Health insurance with at least €30,000 coverage
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical certificate
• Proof of income
• Proof of property ownership or rental agreement in Greece
• Family documents (marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates, etc.)
• Proof of legal grounds for staying (e.g., purchase agreement for Golden Visa, employment contract, enrollment letter for students, marriage certificate, etc.)
• Two color photos (3.5×4.5 cm)
• Payment receipt for the application fee

All documents must be translated into Greek, notarized, and apostilled.

Benefits and Limitations of Residency

A Greek residence permit allows legal residence for the validity period and unlimited entries and exits.

In addition, residents can:

• Travel visa-free within the Schengen Area
• Open accounts in Greek and international banks
• Unfreeze assets
• Launch businesses in the EU
• Optimize taxes
• Study at local and international universities
• Access free healthcare
• Apply for residency for family members
• Become eligible for permanent residency and Greek citizenship

It also offers the chance to live in a European country with a high quality of life and robust infrastructure — a reliable Plan B in times of political or economic uncertainty.

Most types of residence permits have specific requirements, including the need to live in Greece for a minimum period each year.

Greek Golden Visa: The Best Option for Investors

The Greek Golden Visa program is one of the most popular and accessible in the world. In 2024, despite raising the minimum investment threshold from €250,000 to €800,000 in key areas, Greece issued a record number of Golden Visas.

Under the programme, investors are required to buy real estate in Greece at the specified threshold.

As of September 1, 2024, two investment zones have been established:

• From €800,000 – for all of Attica, Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, Mykonos, Santorini, and other cities with populations of 3,100 or more
• From €400,000 – for all other regions

In both cases, only one property may be purchased, with a minimum size of 120 sq.m. Short-term rentals are prohibited.

Despite the increased thresholds, there are still opportunities to invest from €250,000 regardless of the property’s location or size. These apply to commercial properties being converted into residential use. Developers acquire old office buildings and fully renovate them. The result: investors receive modern, turnkey properties that meet all programme requirements. These projects are typically in central, tourist-friendly, and well-developed areas, such as Attica.

In another case, the investor must complete full restoration and renovation of the property within 5 years of purchase—this is a mandatory condition for extending the residence permit.

To qualify for the Greek Golden Visa, an investor has to:

• Be over 18 years old
• Have no criminal record
• Not to violate Greek and EU laws
• Not jeopardize the security of the country
• Provide a health certificate

It’s best to apply for the Golden Visa with the help of professionals. The process involves several steps:

1. Select and invest in property – this can be done remotely by granting power of attorney to a lawyer.
2. Prepare your application documents.
3. Submit the application – processing takes about 60 days. After submission, the investor receives a White Paper, a temporary permit that allows unlimited entry and legal stay in Greece.
4. Travel to Greece to provide biometric data.
5. Receive the residence permit card.

Family members can be included in the application: spouse, children under 21, and both spouses’ parents. The permit is issued for 5 years and is renewable.

Unlike most other types of residence permits, the Golden Visa does not require the holder to reside in Greece for 183 days a year.

Foreigners legally living in Greece for over 5 years may apply for permanent residency. Requirements include not leaving Greece for more than 183 days in any single year and not exceeding 10 months of absence over 5 years.

Permanent residents can then apply for Greek citizenship after 7 years of living in the country. Applicants have to pass a Greek language test and a basic knowledge exam on Greek laws and customs. A Greek passport grants full EU citizenship, allowing you to live, work, and study in any EU country.

Greece attracts those looking for a scenic place to vacation or a new home. The Golden Visa program remains one of the most effective pathways to residency, especially popular among investors.

Astons’ experts will guide you through every step of the Greek Golden Visa process and help you choose the ideal property. You can learn more during a free consultation with our specialists.

FAQ

When is the best time to visit Greece, weather-wise?

The weather in Greece is comfortable almost all year round. The best time to explore cities and cultural landmarks is during spring and autumn, when daytime temperatures range from 18-25°C and nights are a pleasant 14-20°C. Beach season is from May to October, with very little rainfall, daytime temperatures above 35°C, and sea temperatures between 22-26°C.

Which regions are especially attractive for permanent living?

Athens, Attica, and Thessaloniki are the most popular areas in Greece for long-term living. These regions offer excellent infrastructure and everything needed for a comfortable lifestyle, work, and running a business.

How difficult is it for a foreigner to find a job in Greece?

Finding a job in Greece can be challenging, especially outside the tourism and shipping industries, as the country has a relatively high unemployment rate. However, Greece is actively seeking highly qualified professionals, including from abroad. To improve your chances, you should have relevant experience in your field, a good command of the language — ideally Greek, but English is also widely accepted—and an understanding of local business culture.

What are taxes and social benefits like in Greece?

Greece’s tax system is comparable to those in other EU countries, and there are special tax regimes available for foreign nationals.

Do I need to validate my degree to work or study in Greece?

Yes, if you obtained your higher education diploma abroad, you’ll need to have it officially recognized in Greece. The process of diploma validation (nostrification) and legalization can take from 1 to 2 years.

What costs should I consider when relocating to Greece?

The total amount you’ll need for relocation — and the size of your financial cushion — depends on your lifestyle and personal preferences. Key expenses include initial housing rent, monthly costs for food, transportation, communication, and utilities. You should also factor in the cost of flights to Greece, visa and entry-related expenses, and the costs associated with applying for a residence permit if you plan to stay long-term. Keep in mind that living expenses are significantly higher in major cities and tourist areas compared to rural regions. When planning your move, research prices and living conditions in the specific region you’re targeting.

How long does it take to get a residence permit, and what are the main requirements?

The processing time and requirements for a residence permit depend on the basis of your application. The fastest option is Greece’s investment-based residence permit, which can be obtained within 3 to 6 months. The requirements are minimal: you must be over 18, have no criminal record or legal issues, and provide a medical certificate.