Ultimate Guide to Residency Permits in Greece (Updated for 2026)

Getting your paperwork organized is an essential step in your decision to move to Greece. Applying for a residency permit is something you need to start organizing within a couple of months of your arrival if you wish to stay in the country for more than 90 consecutive days.

The first step in obtaining a residence permit in Greece is identifying the type of permit you need. The application process varies depending on your nationality, the purpose of your stay, and other factors.

Obtaining Residency in Greece

There are two types of residency permits: temporary and permanent.

• Temporary Residency Permit: Typically issued within 40 days of application submission.
• Permanent Residency Permit: Granted within at least 6 months of holding a temporary permit.
• Greek Citizenship: Eligible after seven years of residency. (Requires knowledge of the Greek language equivalent to a B2 level, history, and culture. Applicants must pass the language and cultural test to be eligible for Greek Citizenship.)

For EU Citizens

EU citizens don’t need a residence permit but must register with the local authorities and obtain an EU Registration Card within 3 months of residing in Greece. These permit holders by default are declared as local tax residents.

To check whether you are eligible for tax residency in Greece, please read How Do I Become a Tax Resident of Greece?

Requirements:

1. Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or landlord’s details if renting)
2. Proof of income or employment:
   • Independent individuals: Minimum €5,000 in a bank account.
   • Employees: Offer letter or contract from a Greek employer.
3. Proof of private health insurance

For Non-EU Citizens

Non-EU citizens (e.g., Americans or Brits) who wish to reside in Greece long-term, typically must obtain a Type D Visa to enter Greece, followed by a residency permit application. The Type D Visa grants application holders up to 365 days of stay, and is mandatory for applicants under the Financially Independent Person's Visa or FIP.

Common Residency Categories for Non-EU Nationals:

1. Temporary Residency Permit (typically issued within 40 days following an application)
2. Golden Visa
3. Digital Nomad Visa
4. Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa
5. Spousal Permits

Residency Programs and Updates for 2026

Digital Nomad Visa

This residency program allows remote workers and business owners to stay in Greece for up to two years. Applicants can apply directly within Greece after arrival.

Key Updates for 2026:

• Income Requirement: €3,500 (plus 20% for a spouse and 15% for each dependent).
• Digital Nomad Visa holders cannot stay for more than six months per year outside of Greece during their time of residency.
• Digital Nomad Visa holders also have Schengen access, meaning that visa holders can enter all 27 countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Recent Changes to the Digital Nomad Visa in 2026

Earlier this year, the Greek Ministry of Migration has recently implemented a significant change regarding how remote workers apply for their status. Currently, many digital nomads enter Greece on a tourist visa and apply for their Digital Nomad residence permit directly at the Greek Ministry of Migration.

According to the new law 5275/2026, here’s what has changed:

• The option to apply for the 2-year Digital Nomad residence permit directly from within Greece as a tourist has officially been abolished.
• What does this mean for applicants moving forward? Under the new law, Digital Nomad Visa applicants will be required to apply for a National (Type D) Visa at a Greek Consulate or Embassy before entering Greece.
• Application fee (this government fee is ’e-paravolo’): €1,000, with an additional €16 for the card.

Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa

An ideal option for retirees or individuals with stable passive income.

Updates for 2026:

1. Validity Period: Increased to three years.
2. Income Requirements: Minimum €3,500 monthly or €126,000 for three years (plus 20% for a spouse and 15% for each child).
3. Applicants can prove income through pensions or passive investments. Greek bank deposits are no longer mandatory.

Golden Visa (Investor Permit)

This visa is for individuals investing in Greek real estate. To see whether the Golden Visa is right choice for you, check Why the Greece Golden Visa is the Smart Choice for Global Investors.

Updates for 2026:

• Minimum Investment: €800,000 for properties in most areas (Attica, Thessaloniki, and others) and €250,000 with exceptions.
• Property Requirements: Minimum size of 120 square meters.
• Benefits: Free travel across Schengen countries, valid for five years, and includes family members.

Residency Application Process

Required Documents:

1. Passport copy.
2. Two passport-sized photos.
3. Proof of private health insurance.
4. Bank statements or proof of income.
5. Additional documents (e.g., work contracts, academic enrollment, etc.).

Where to Apply

Residency permit applications must be submitted to the Aliens Department of the Hellenic Police or the nearest immigration office. You will receive a blue receipt confirming your application, and permits are typically ready within weeks.

For translations and additional assistance, you can also visit the Citizen’s Service Office (KEP).

Upgrading to Permanent Residency

After living in Greece for seven consecutive years, you can apply for Greek citizenship, which grants you the right to an EU passport. Applicants must pass a language and cultural knowledge exam, typically equivalent to a B1 level, and submit the required documentation.

The application process involves filing your documents with the local authorities responsible for citizenship matters, not the police. Requirements include proof of continuous residency, an updated residency permit, and other supporting documents.

Staying Updated

Immigration laws and policies can change, so regularly check the Citizen’s Service Office (KEP) website or consult with a qualified immigration lawyer for the most accurate information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a new law for residence permits in Greece?

Some of the Greek residency laws have been updated, especially in relation to the Golden Visas in 2024 and 2025, for financially independent individuals, and most recently, Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa. As mentioned, the new law 5275/2026 introduced on the 5th of February 2026, abolishes the possibility to apply for the 2-year Digital Nomad residence permit as a tourist in Greece.

For anyone planning on moving to Greece or applying for a Greek residency permit, one should always check for recent updates before submitting an application, particularly around income requirements, application location, and renewal rules. Working with a relocation consultant based in Greece like My Greek Expat Journey, can help to ensure that your application follows the most current regulations.

What is the 5-year residence permit in Greece?

The 5-year residence permit in Greece is one of the most common permit durations and applies to several residency categories. It is most often associated with the Golden Visa program, and certain long-term residency permits, such as the full-market access permit, issued to non-EU nationals who meet specific financial or employment criteria.

This permit allows legal residence in Greece without the need to renew annually and can be renewed every five years as long as the original conditions are maintained. It is especially popular among foreigners buying property in Greece, retirees, seeking a long-term life in Greece without becoming full tax residents.

What is the 3-year residence permit in Greece?

A 3-year residence permit is typically granted under the Greek residency by financial means program, also known as the financially independent visa (FIP). This permit is designed for non-EU citizens who can support themselves through foreign sourced income without working in Greece.

The permit allows long-term living in Greece as an expat, and can be renewed every three years, provided that the applicant can still demonstrate the income requirements set by the Greek immigration law. Many people relocating to Greece from the USA choose the FIP due to its flexibility and convenience.

Do EU citizens need a residence permit in Greece?

EU citizens do not need a residence permit in Greece in the same way non-EU nationals do. However, EU citizens staying in Greece longer than three months are required to register their residence and obtain an EU registration certificate from the local authorities. This is also called the “EU card”, which applicants can obtain at their nearest police station.

This process is simpler than applying for a Greek residence permit as a non-EU citizen, since it does not involve any income thresholds. That said, EU citizens who plan on changing tax residency to Greece or on opening a Greek bank account will need an AFM number.

What is a Greek residence permit for non-EU citizens?

A Greek residence permit for non-EU citizens is a legal document that allows foreigners to live in Greece beyond the standard tourist stay, which is typically 90 days. These permits are issued under various categories including work, investment, family reunification, digital nomad status, and residency by financial means.

Each permit has different eligibility requirements, validity periods, and renewal conditions. Choosing the right permit is one of the most important steps when moving to Greece, as applying under the wrong category can lead to delays or rejection.

What is a temporary residence permit in Greece?

A temporary residence permit in Greece is often issued as a pre-approval document while the official residence permit is being processed. It confirms that the applicant has submitted a valid application and is legally allowed to remain in Greece during processing.

Temporary permits are common for first time applicants and renewals and are frequently used by foreigners navigating how to get residency in Greece for the first time.

Why Choose My Greek Expat Journey?

At My Greek Expat Journey, we assist expats from around the world in obtaining their residency permits and handling other administrative tasks. With a trusted network of top-rated accountants and lawyers, we ensure a smooth process free from scams. Our transparent communication, up-front fees, and quick responses make relocating to Greece stress-free.

Need help? We assist in gathering the necessary documentation to help obtain a valid residency permit for Greece. To find out more, book a 15-minute discovery call to learn more about our services.