Greece is one of the best places in Europe for anyone who want to live, work, or study abroad. Because of its rich culture, sunny weather, and low cost of living compared to many Western European nations, it has proven particularly popular among those who don’t live in the EU. Getting a residence permit is the first thing you need to do if you want to live in Greece for a long time. Even though the procedure may seem hard at first, understanding what you need to do and how to do it ahead of time can make it much easier.
Who needs a permit to live here
You don’t need a residence permit to live and work in Greece if you are a citizen of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA). But if you’re not a citizen of the EU, you need a national visa (Type D) to remain longer than 90 days and a residency permit while you’re in Greece. This paper grants you the right to remain lawfully after your visa expires, as long as you are there for the appropriate reason.
Different kinds of residence permits
Greece gives you numerous kinds of residency licenses based on your needs. The most prevalent types are:
- Work permit: For those who have an employment offer from a Greek company.
- Student permit: For those from outside the EU who are going to college in Greece.
- Golden visa: This lets investors buy property valued at least €250,000.
- Family reunification permit: For those who want to join a spouse or parent living in Greece.
- Independent means visa: For retirees or anyone who can sustain themselves in Greece without working.
Identifying the right permit for your needs is the first step before applying.
Step 1: get the right visa
Before you may apply for a residence permit, you must first visit Greece lawfully on a long-stay (Type D) visa. You can get this visa via the Greek Embassy or Consulate in your home country. The papers needed depend on the kind of visa, however they usually include:
- A passport
- Filled out visa application form
- Proof of having enough money
- Proof of health insurance
- Background checks or police clearance, if needed
- Job offer, university admittance letter, home purchase agreement, and other relevant papers
You may start the process of getting a residence permit as soon as you get to Greece with this visa.
Step 2: get a residence permit
You need to apply for your residence permit at the local Decentralised Administration’s Directorate of Foreigners and Immigration while your national visa is still valid. Don’t put off this procedure, since staying too long on your visa might get you in trouble with the law or cost you money.
The papers you need are usually:
- A filled-out application form for a residency permit
- A passport
- Proof of enough money or income, such bank statements or a job contract
- Proof that you have health insurance in Greece
- Photos the size of a passport
- Proof of residence in Greece, such a rental agreement, property title, or utility bill
- Receipt of payment for the application fee (paravolo)
Depending on the kind of permit you’re seeking for, you may need to send in more papers.
Step 3: biometrics and a temporary certificate
You will also have to provide biometric information like fingerprints and pictures when you send in your application. In exchange, you’ll get a blue certificate (βεβαίωση) that proves you’ve applied and lets you remain in the country lawfully while your application is being reviewed.
Step 4: wait for approval
It might take a few months to get your residence permit card, although the processing dates can be different. It’s crucial to maintain your blue certificate secure and up to date throughout this time since you could need it to travel inside Greece or do other official business.
Duration and renewal
Most residence permits are only good for one or two years at first, depending on the kind. As long as you keep meeting the requirements, such as continuing working, studying, or keeping up with your property investment, they might be renewed. You should send in your renewal application at least two months before your existing permit runs out.
Advantages of having a residence permit
There are several benefits to having a residency permit in Greece. You may live in the nation lawfully, get health care, go to school, and in certain situations, work or establish a company. It gives families stability and access to schools and social services. If you live in the country for a long time, you could be able to get long-term residency or even Greek citizenship.
You can also view these posts:
Greece through the eyes of investors
Traveling to Greece: Visa requirements
Things to know before immigrating to Greece
