Greece Visa & Work Permit Complete Guide 2026

Greece has become an increasingly attractive destination for expats and digital nomads, combining a warm Mediterranean climate, low cost of living, and a growing set of tax incentives and visa options for foreigners.

Main Visa Types

Digital Nomad Visa

Introduced in 2022, for remote workers serving clients or employers outside Greece.

• Minimum monthly income: €3,500+
• Validity: 1 year, renewable for another year (max 2 years)
• Spouse and dependents can join
• Apply at the Greek consulate in your country

Golden Visa (Real Estate Investment)

Greece's investor residency program through real estate.

• Major cities (Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, etc.): €800,000+
• Other areas: €400,000+
• Renewal: every 5 years
• Provides EU travel rights but generally no right to work

EU Blue Card

For highly skilled professionals with a job offer from a Greek employer.

General Work Permit

For non-EU/EEA nationals with a job offer from a Greek company.

Tax Incentives

50% Income Tax Exemption for New Residents

• For foreign nationals taking up employment in Greece for the first time
• Duration: 7 years
• 50% of income is excluded from Greek taxation

7% Flat Tax for Retirees

• For pensioners who transfer their tax residency to Greece
• A flat 7% tax rate applies to all foreign-sourced pension income
• Duration: up to 15 years

Cost Overview

Key Checklist Before You Move

1. AFM (Tax Number): Issued by Greece's tax authority (AADE) — required for bank accounts, property purchases, and most contracts
2. AMKA (Social Security Number): Required for healthcare and social insurance access
3. Housing: Athens and Thessaloniki rents are rising — island off-season can be good value

Greece offers one of Europe's lowest costs of living with an exceptional quality of life. Use MoveWorth to simulate your tax burden and living costs before making the move to the Mediterranean.