If you are looking to explore Greece for remote work amidst a rich cultural and historical landscape, this Southern European country is open to digital nomads.
The Greece Digital Nomad Visa, launched in 2021, is open to non-EU/EEA citizens who plan to work remotely in Greece for up to two years. This digital nomad visa is believed to be one of the easiest visas to acquire and needs, a declaration letter, proof of sufficient funds with a net monthly income of €3,500, certification of remote employment, and a digital nomad residence permit.
In this article, we’ll delve into the details and intricacies of this much-coveted visa, how to acquire one, and make this paradise your next global address.
What Is the Greece Digital Nomad Visa?
The Greece digital nomad visa, a type of national visa, allows remote workers from outside the European Union or European Economic Area to live and work remotely in Greece. Unlike a tourist visa, the digital nomad visa provides legal residence in the country for up to two years.
With this visa, digital nomads in Greece can experience a balanced lifestyle while meeting their professional goals. Additionally, they are not considered a tax resident, meaning they do not have to pay income taxes in Greece on their global income for up to 183 days.
It’s a golden opportunity for those who dream of enjoying Greek culture, cuisine, and a splendid work-life balance while continuing their professional pursuits.
The Benefits of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa
- Extended Stay Duration: One of the most significant advantages of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is the ability to legally reside in Greece for up to two years. This extended stay is much longer than what a standard tourist visa offers, providing digital nomads ample time to immerse themselves in Greek culture and explore the country thoroughly.
- Work Legally in Greece: The visa allows digital nomads to live and work legally in Greece, giving them the peace of mind and legal security to focus on their remote work without the complications that might arise from visa violations.
- Access to the Schengen Area: While the visa is specifically for Greece, it also allows for travel within the Schengen Area, making it easier for digital nomads to explore other European countries without the need for additional visas.
- Tax Benefits: Digital nomads on this visa generally do not have to pay income tax in Greece on their worldwide income. This can be a significant financial advantage, especially for those coming from countries with higher tax rates. However, you are subject to a tax reduction program where you pay half the rate of your income when staying for more than 183 days and a maximum of two years.
- Affordable Cost of Living: Greece is known for its relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other European countries. This can be particularly beneficial for digital nomads who are looking to maximize their earnings while enjoying a high-quality Mediterranean lifestyle.
- Rich Cultural Experience: Greece offers a rich mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient ruins and historical sites to stunning islands and beaches, there’s always something new and exciting to explore.
- Vibrant Expat and Digital Nomad Community: Greece, especially Athens and other major cities, has a growing community of expats and digital nomads, providing opportunities for networking, socializing, and professional collaboration.
- High-Quality Healthcare System: Greece has a reputable healthcare system, and the visa requires applicants to have health insurance, ensuring they have access to good medical care during their stay.
- Stable Internet Connectivity: For digital nomads, reliable internet is a must, and Greece offers stable and high-speed internet connections, particularly in urban areas and popular islands, facilitating seamless remote work.
- Pleasant Climate: Greece’s Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm, sunny summers, is ideal for those who prefer a temperate climate, enabling an outdoor lifestyle year-round.
Greece Digital Nomad Visa: Requirements, Application & Costs
Qualifications
Remote Work Capability: Applicants must be employed or self-employed in a company registered outside of Greece and must be able to perform their work remotely.
Stable Income: Applicants must demonstrate a stable and regular income that is sufficient to cover living expenses in Greece. The prescribed income threshold is around €3,500/month ($3,780), but it typically aligns with ensuring a comfortable standard of living.
Health Insurance: Regardless if you have a clean bill of health or are in excellent shape, applicants must have comprehensive health insurance coverage that is valid in Greece and covers the duration of their stay.
Documents Required
- Valid Passport: A passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in Greece.
- Proof of Employment or Self-Employment:
- For Employees: An employment contract from a company registered outside of Greece.
- For Self-Employed Individuals: Evidence of business ownership or self-employment, such as business registration documents.
- Proof of Sufficient Income:
- Bank statements or similar financial documents demonstrating a stable and regular income. The minimum income requirement is €3,500/month ($3,780).
- Company account statements for self-employed applicants.
- Health Insurance Coverage:
- A policy that covers healthcare in Greece.
- Must include medical and hospitalization coverage.
- Medical Certificate:
- Issued from a recognized medical institution, confirming good health.
- It should be recent and include a statement that the applicant does not suffer from any diseases that could pose a public health risk.
- Criminal Record Certificate:
- A clean criminal record certificate from the applicant’s country of residence.
- This document should not be older than six months.
- Declaration Letter:
- A letter stating the purpose of the applicant’s stay in Greece.
- Should include information about remote work and the intention to reside in Greece as a digital nomad.
- Rental Agreement or Accommodation Proof:
- Evidence of a place of residence as a digital nomad in Greece, such as a rental agreement.
- Alternatively, a hotel booking confirmation or similar document may be required.
- Return Flight Ticket:
- Evidence of a return flight or sufficient funds to purchase a return ticket.
- Visa Application Form:
- A completed and signed visa application form specific to the Greece Digital Nomad Visa.
- Visa Fee: Payment of the applicable visa fee.
- Digital Nomad Residence Permit:
- This is acquired after entering Greece as a digital nomad and requested from the nearest Decentralized Administration office of the Ministry of Migration and Asylum- Aliens and Immigration Department.
Additional Considerations
- Family Members: If family members accompany the digital nomad, additional documents such as marriage certificates or birth certificates may be required.
- Language: Documents not in Greek or English may need to be translated and certified.
- Embassy Submission: there’s no online application process for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa. The application and documents are typically submitted to the nearest Greek embassy or consulate.
- Interview: An interview may be required as part of the application process.
Application Process
Applying for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa involves a multi-step process, designed to ensure that applicants meet all the necessary criteria and provide the required documentation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating this process:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Before beginning the application, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa. This includes having a job or owning a business that allows you to work remotely, preferably with a company registered outside of Greece, and demonstrating a stable and sufficient income to support your stay.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all the necessary documents. These typically include a valid passport, proof of employment or self-employment (such as an employment contract or business registration documents), proof of sufficient income (like bank statements), a clean criminal record certificate, health insurance that covers your stay in Greece, a medical certificate indicating good health, and proof of accommodation in Greece (like a rental agreement or hotel booking confirmation).
Step 3: Translate and Certify Documents
If any of your documents are not in English or Greek, have them translated and certified. This step is crucial as Greek authorities will require all documents to be understandable in one of these two languages.
Step 4: Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Complete the Greek national visa application form. This form can typically be downloaded from the website of the nearest Greek embassy or consulate. Ensure that all information is accurate and the form is filled out completely.
Step 5: Schedule an Appointment
Contact the nearest Greek embassy or consulate to schedule an appointment. Some embassies may allow you to book an appointment online, while others might require you to call or email.
Step 6: Attend the Appointment and Submit Your Application
Attend your appointment at the embassy or consulate, bringing all of your prepared documents. During this appointment, you will submit your application and documents, and pay the visa application fee. You may also be required to undergo an interview where you’ll be asked about your plans in Greece, your remote work, and how you intend to support yourself during your stay.
Step 7: Wait for Processing
After submitting your application, there will be a processing period. The duration of this period can vary, but you should be prepared to wait several weeks. During this time, your application and documents will be reviewed by the Greek authorities.
Step 8: Receive Your Visa
Once your application is approved, you will be notified to collect your visa. This might require another visit to the embassy or consulate. With your visa in hand, you are now legally permitted to live and work remotely in Greece.
Step 9: Arrive in Greece and Finalize Formalities
Upon arrival in Greece, you may need to complete additional formalities, such as registering your place of residence with the local authorities and securing your digital nomad residence permit at the nearest Decentralized Administration office of the Ministry of Migration and Asylum- Aliens and Immigration Department. You will be required to present your rental agreement or booking confirmation, your visa, and passport when applying for your digital nomad residence permit.
Step 10: Enjoy Greece as a Digital Nomad
With all formalities completed, you can now enjoy living and working in Greece as a digital nomad. Explore the country, immerse yourself in the culture, and take advantage of the unique opportunity to blend work with an enriching lifestyle in one of Europe’s most historic and beautiful countries.
Remember, it’s essential to keep abreast of any changes in visa policies and requirements, as immigration rules can evolve. Always refer to the official Greek embassy or consulate websites for the most current information.
Cost
Applying for a Greece Digital