Now that remote work has become the new normal for many people, the concept of being a digital nomad has gained significant traction.
Greece has recently recognized this trend introducing their own version of digital nomad visa.
With this visa, you will be able to enjoy the Greek’s warm climate, high standards of living and affordable cost of living.
But what are the Greek digital nomad visa requirements and how to apply?
Greece Digital Nomad Visa – Key Points Explained
- The Greece digital nomad visa is a new initiative introduced by the Greek government to attract remote workers.
- It is valid for up to two years (initial one year visa that can be extended for one more year).
- It is open to applicants that have a steady income, health insurance and work as a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote employee.
- The Greek digital nomad visa costs around 75 € ($80).
- Processing time is around 10 days.
- Application must be submitted to your local Greece Embassy or Consulate.
Is It Hard To Get Greece Digital Nomad Visa ?
Getting the Greece digital nomad visa is a pretty straightforward process as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and provide all the required documents.
The main difficulty is the fact that the application process can’t be completed online, and you will have to make an appointment at your local embassy or consulate.
Ensure you meet the requirements and have all your documents before your appointment.
Read Later – Countries With Digital Nomad Visas (On Every Continent)
What type of visa is the Greece Digital Nomad Visa ?
The Greek Digital Nomad Visa falls under the category of Type D Visa.
Type D visa is a long-term visa that allows you to enter and stay in the country for a period exceeding 90 days, for purposes such as work, study, family reunification, or other long-term stay.
This means that you are required to submit the same documents as you would for a Type D Visa application.
Eligibility & Greece Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
Before you apply, you will have to make sure you meet the Greece digital nomad visa requirements.
- Work for a company or clients located outside of Greece, showing a contract or ongoing business relationship.
- Perform your work using information and communication technology like wifi, laptops or smartphone.
- Not work for a company registered in Greece.
- If self-employed, submit confirmation of your business activity, corporate purpose, and business address. Your business cannot be registered in Greece.
- Be able to work 100 % remotely.
- Earn a minimum income of 3500 € ($3700) per month if you’re traveling alone, 4200 € ($4440) if you’re traveling with your spouse and 4830 € ($5100) if you’re traveling with your spouse and one dependent.
- Certified health check.
- Clean criminal record.
- Health insurance certificate.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Passport valid for the duration of the visa.
Digital Nomad Visa Greece Income Requirements
To be eligible for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet specific income requirements. The minimum income you have to earn is 3,500€ ($3,700) per month from a foreign source.
If you plan to bring a spouse or dependent, the minimum income requirement increases to 4,200€ ($4,440) per month for a spouse and 4,830€ ($5,100) per month for a spouse and one dependent.
For each additional dependent, you will have to earn an additional 15%. If you plan on moving with your partner and two kids, you will have to earn at least 5550 € ($5850).
Digital Nomad Visa For Greece Documents
For your Greece Digital Nomad Visa application, you must provide specific documents to demonstrate your eligibility.
- Valid passport copies : your passport must be valid for at least the duration of your visa, so at least one year, and two years if you plan to renew your visa.
- Passport photos : provide official passport-sized photos.
- Proof of remote work : provide evidence of your work as a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote employee, as well as proof you work through communication technology.
- Proof of income : provide payslips or statements that demonstrate your income meets the minimum income requirements.
- Criminal background check : provide a clean criminal record that demonstrates you have no criminal convictions or pending criminal cases in your home country.
- Health insurance certificate : provide proof of health insurance that covers you for the duration of your stay in Greece.
- Medical certificate of good health : provide a medical certificate that demonstrates you are in good health and not a threat to public health.
- Proof of accommodation in Greece : provide the address of the accommodations where you will be staying.
Greece Digital Nomad Visa How To Apply
Wishing to apply for a digital nomad visa to live and work in Greece ?
Here are the four steps you will have to follow.
- Gather all necessary documents: The first step in applying for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is to gather all necessary documents. These include a copy of your valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of remote work, proof of income, criminal background check, proof of health insurance, medical certificate of good health, and addresses of the accommodations where you will be staying.
- Submit your application to the embassy or consulate: Once you have gathered all necessary documents, you can submit your application to the Greek embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Unfortunately, for now the application process can’t be completed online.
- Wait for the answer: After submitting your application, you will need to wait for approval. The Greek embassy or consulate will review your application and determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa. If your application is approved, you will receive a visa that allows you to live and work in Greece for up to one year. You will be notified within ten days.
- Register for a Residency Permit: After arriving in Greece, you will need to register for a residency permit at the local police station. Beware this is a mandatory requirement for anyone staying in Greece for more than 90 days.
Greece Digital Nomad Visa Renewal Process
The Greece digital nomad visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for up to another year. The renewal process involves submitting a new application with the required documents listed above.
We would recommend you ask for the renewal at least two weeks before your initial visa expires as the process lasts around 10 days.
How Long Is A Greek Digital Nomad Visa Valid For ?
The Greece digital nomad visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for up to another year.
This means that you will be able to stay in Greece for a total of two years, providing that you renew your visa before it expires.
After this period of two years, you won’t be able to stay in the country under the Greece digital nomad visa, unless you have applied and been granted another type of visa or residency permit.
This could include a work permit or a residency permit based on family reunification or other reasons.
Cost Of Greece Digital Nomad Visa Application
Greek digital nomad visas are pretty affordable. The cost is 75 € ($80) per applicant. This fee covers the process of the visa application, including background checks and the issuing of the visa itself.
The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Greece’s government doesn’t offer a special fee for families, so if you apply for a family of four, you will have to pay four times 75 €.
Additionally, you will also have to provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
Digital Nomad Visa Greece Tax To Expect
If you’re a non-tax resident, you’ll only pay taxes on income earned in Greece, so you won’t pay income taxes as you’re not supposed to have Greek clients.
However, if you spend more than 183 days per year in Greece, you’ll be considered a tax resident, and you’ll be subject to Greek income tax on your worldwide income.
The exact tax rates depend on your income level and tax deductions, but they usually range from 9% to 44%. Greece has tax treaties with most European countries, which can help to prevent double taxation.
How Long You Wait To Get Greece Digital Nomad Visa
The Greece digital nomad visa application process is quite fast and efficient. Once you’ve submitted your application form and all the required documents, you can expect to receive a response within 10 days.
This means that you could potentially be approved and on your way to Greece within just a couple of weeks. The exact processing time may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the volume of applications being processed at the time.
This is why we would advise you to apply well in advance of your planned departure date so you avoid any stress.
Bringing Family With You
Family members of digital nomads are eligible for dependent visas, which allow them to stay in Greece for the same duration as the primary visa holder.
To apply for a dependent visa, you’ll need to provide the required documentation, including marriage and birth certificates, as well as proof of financial means to support your family members during their stay in Greece.
You will also be required to provide proof of accommodation for your whole family.
Cost Of Living In Greece
The cost of living in Greece can vary depending on the location and personal preferences.
It is overall considered to be relatively affordable compared to other European countries.
| Accommodation | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | 400 to 1200 € / $420 to $1260 |
| Buy | 60000 to 300000 € / $65000 to $320000 |
| Hotels | 40 to 120 € / $42 to $126 |
| Bnb | 30 to 100 € / $32 to $105 |
| Food | Cost |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | 10 to 20 € / $11 to $21 |
| Groceries | 150 to 250 € / $158 to $263 /month/pers |
| Fast Food | 5 to 7 € / $5 to $7 |
| Transports | Cost |
|---|---|
| Train | 10 to 20 € / $11 to $21 per 100km |
| Bus | 1.50 to 2.5 € / $1.58 to $2.63 per trip |
| Taxi | 1.10 to 1.90 € / $1.16 to $2.00 per km |
| Car rental | 15 to 30 € / $16 to $32 per day |
| Airplane | 50 to 100 € / $53 to $105 per national trip |
| Leisure | Cost |
|---|---|
| Day excursion | 20 to 50 € / $21 to $53 |
| Nightlife | 20 to 50 € / $21 to $53 |
| Museum / attractions | 5 to 15 € / $5 to $16 |
| Outdoor activities | 20 to 50 € / $21 to $53 |
You can also check the Cost of Living in Greece here.
Is There Digital Banking In Greece
Greece has a well-developed banking system, and many banks offer digital banking services.
This means that you can easily manage your finances and make transactions online from anywhere in the world.
Digital banking in Greece usually includes :
- Online banking
- Mobile banking
- ATM access
- Credit cards
- Loans
- Investment accounts
Major banks like National Bank of Greece, Alpha Bank, and Piraeus Bank will allow you to open an account.
Do you travel for work regularly? Simplify your trips with these banking services and apps designed specifically for business travel.
Popular Digital Nomad Hotspots (Cities) In Greece
Here are some of the most popular hotspots for digital nomads in Greece :
- Athens – The capital of Greece is a top destination for digital nomads. It’s home to a growing startup scene, excellent coffee shops and restaurants from where you will be able to work. We also love that it’s full of co-working spaces and that it has a vibrant nightlife.
- Santorini – The picturesque island of Santorini is one of Greece’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s also a great spot for digital nomads. You will love its white-washed buildings, breathtaking sunsets and excellent food and wine. Santorini offers a luxurious and relaxing environment to work and live in.
- Thessaloniki – The second-largest city in Greece after Athens is also a popular destination for digital nomads thanks to its laid-back vibe. It’s also home to a growing tech industry and it has several co-working spaces. A great place to have fun and to network with other entrepreneurs and freelancers !
- Corfu – On this Ionian island, you will enjoy a beautiful and historic destination, great if you’re looking for a laid-back lifestyle. You will absolutely love its gorgeous beaches, traditional villages, and stunning landscapes. The island is home to a few coworking spaces.
Are There Coworking Communities In Greece ?
Greece has been attracting digital nomads from the whole world, and coworking communities have been popping up all over the country.
Coworking communities in Athens
The capital city is a popular destination for digital nomads. It has a bustling startup scene and a variety of coworking spaces.
Some of the well-known ones include:
- Impact Hub Athens
- The Cube Athens
- and Stone Soup
These coworking communities offer a range of amenities and services, like meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and events.
Coworking communities in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is another popular destination for digital nomads, thanks to its thriving coworking community.
OK! Tess, Coho and Jetpak Alternative are well-known coworking spaces that offer modern facilities, comfortable workstations, and a great community of entrepreneurs, creatives, and remote workers.
Coworking communities in Heraklion
The largest city on Crete is also home to several coworking communities. The Officenter and Fuckup are two of the most popular ones.
These coworking spaces offer stunning views of the sea, a relaxed atmosphere, and a diverse community of digital nomads.
Final Pros & Benefits
Greece has become a prime destination for digital nomads seeking a work-life balance in a picturesque location.
In addition to its natural beauty, stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious food, Greece also boasts a thriving startup scene and a growing coworking community.
Using the Greece digital nomad visa offers numerous benefits for digital nomads.
The cost of living is pretty low compared to other European countries, meaning you can stretch your budget further while enjoying a high quality of life.
Plus, in Greece, you will have no difficulty finding a cozy cafe or a coworking space to work.
Few Drawbacks To Have In Mind
Yes, Greece digital nomad visas are some of the best in the world if you like sun, History and good food.
But you will also have to keep in mind some negative points.
- One of the main challenges is the country’s infrastructure, outdated and unreliable in some areas. Internet connectivity can be spotty at times.
- Another potential issue is the language barrier. While many Greeks speak English, it can still be challenging to communicate with locals in some remote areas.
- Greece can also be a difficult place to settle in for newcomers, with complex bureaucracy and paperwork to deal with.
- You will also have to earn a pretty high salary to be eligible. But keep in mind that these challenges can be overcome with the right mindset and preparation !
3 Alternative Countries With Similar Requirements We Recommend
- Croatia – If you’re looking for a country with a warm climate, nice beaches and affordable cost of living, then you might also consider the Croatia digital nomad visa. The country is quite dynamic on the start-up scène, and you will find plenty of coworking spaces, especially in Split and Zagreb. Croatia is a great place to work remotely and many Croatians speak English fluently.
- Italy – Italy is another option if your dream is to live in a Mediterranean sunny country. Italy digital nomad visa requirements are pretty much the same than Greece digital nomad visa and both countries offer rich history, beautiful architecture, and great food.
- Bali – For a farther destination that offers a digital nomad visa equivalent to Greece digital nomad visa, you might want to consider Bali. The Bali nomad visa will allow you to live and work in a real tropical paradise. The island offers beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for remote work. In some areas like Ubud and Canggu, you will have to choose between a variety of coworking spaces.
FAQs
As a digital nomad, Do I Need To Pay Tax In Greece ?
You may need to pay tax in Greece if you stay for more than 183 days per year. Then you will be considered as a tax resident. But this depends on your country of origin and the type of work you do.
Can I work remotely on a tourist visa in Greece ?
No, it is illegal to work on a tourist visa in Greece. In order to work in Greece legally, you will have to apply for a digital nomad visa.
Is it possible to apply to Greece digital nomad visa online ?
Unfortunately, for now, it is not possible to apply for a digital nomad visa in Greece online. You will have to attend an appointment at your local Greek embassy or consulate.
Is it hard to get Greece Digital Nomad Visa ?
As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation, then the digital nomad visa application is quite a straightforward process. The only difficulty is that it can’t be done online.
How long is valid Greece Digital Nomad Visa ?
Greece’s digital nomad visa is valid for up to one year and can be renewed for an additional year if you continue to meet the eligibility criteria. So the digital nomad Greece visa can be valid for up to two years in total.
Wrap Up
Greece’s will to welcoming digital nomads has recently led to a specific visa that will allow you to live and work remotely there for one or two years.
The visa is pretty easy to obtain if you meet all the criterions, and is a great way to enjoy Greece’s lifestyle, beaches, historic sites and coworking spaces. Two drawbacks to have in mind though : the high minimum income requirement and the impossibility to apply online.
