How Do I Obtain Residency in Greece as an EU citizen?

For many individuals, Greece is a dream destination to work, study and live. Upon a first visit, the Mediterranean country guarantees a relatively affordable, high quality of life, sunny weather, and presents many opportunities to meet other expats from international backgrounds. The allure of Greece extends beyond its beautiful landscapes and rich history; it also offers a welcoming environment for EU citizens looking to establish a new home.

As an EU citizen, the process of obtaining legal residency in Greece is pretty straightforward. However, there are still some important details to consider to ensure a smooth transition. From understanding the necessary documentation to navigating local bureaucracy, being well-informed will help you settle in more efficiently.

This guide provides essential information to help you through the process of obtaining residency in Greece as an EU citizen. We will cover the key requirements, from registering with local authorities to securing the appropriate documents.

Why Do You Need an EU Card?

If you're a citizen of an EU member state planning to stay in Greece for over 90 days, you'll need to apply for the EU Citizen Registration Card. This serves as proof of residency and is essential for becoming a local tax resident, becoming employed by a Greece-based company, and for conducting business activities. The card is valid indefinitely.

Eligibility Requirements

The required documentation varies depending on whether you are applying as an employee or as an independent individual.

• ‍Step 1: In order to be eligible for the EU card, you must be an EU citizen, or have a passport from an EU country.
• ‍Step 2: You must have a job offer from a local employer, or demonstrate that you have at least €5,000 stored in your foreign bank account. This can be done through a bank statement.
• ‍Step 3: Establish a temporary lease address in Greece. This has to be a minimum lease of 3 months, and if you are with a host, then you can show proof of address with a host declaration form on gov.gr, otherwise known as 'ΥΠΕΥΘΥΝΗ ΔΗΛΛΩΣΗ' in Greek, which is a declaration, with the landlord’s passport and a utility bill. In order to sign a lease agreement, you would need an AFM. See here on how to obtain a Greek TIN.

Where Do I Go to Submit the Application?

To apply for the EU Card, you must visit the Aliens' Bureau at the police station closest to your residence in Greece. The card is issued the same day you submit your application. Be sure to call ahead to confirm the best time to visit.

For Spouses from non-EU countries

A spouse from outside the EU does not apply for the EU card described above. They apply for a residence card of a family member of an EU citizen, which is a separate document under the EU free movement rules. The application is made once you have been in Greece for more than three months, and the authorities have up to six months to decide, so this one is not issued over the counter the way the EU card is. Your spouse will need their passport, your marriage certificate as proof of the relationship, and evidence that you are registered as an EU citizen living here.

The card is valid for five years, or for as long as you plan to stay if that is shorter. After five years of continuous legal residence in Greece, your spouse can apply for a permanent residence card, which runs for ten years and renews automatically.

This is residence, not nationality. A residence card does not make your spouse a citizen of Greece or of any other EU country, and being married to an EU citizen does not by itself grant citizenship anywhere. Greek nationality is governed by separate law with its own conditions.

Why Choose My Greek Expat Journey?

We are an Athens-based relocation service. We handle Greek residency permits, tax registration and the paperwork around them, and you work with a vetted network of accountants and lawyers instead of finding your own. Fees are quoted up front as a package, and we tell you what each step actually involves before you commit. Consultations are remote, so you can start before you arrive.

Get a Straight Answer on Your Own Case

Every relocation turns on the details, and the wrong permit or tax status can cost you months. Before you file anything, book a free 15-minute discovery call and we will go through your situation and tell you plainly what you need, what it costs and how long it takes.

Written by Chloe Mason, founder of My Greek Expat Journey. Chloe has lived in seven countries and has personally guided 300+ people through Greek residency, tax, property and bureaucracy. More articles by Chloe.