Greece Digital Nomad Visa

Greece Digital Nomad Visa Overview

Greece has become an increasingly attractive destination for digital nomads, offering a combination of affordable living, rich culture, and stunning Mediterranean landscapes. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of Athens, the relaxed island life of Crete, or the historic charm of Thessaloniki, Greece provides a perfect balance of work and leisure for remote professionals.

To accommodate the growing trend of location-independent workers, Greece introduced the Digital Nomad Visa, allowing non-EU/EEA citizens to live in the country while working remotely for a foreign employer or business. This visa provides an opportunity to experience Greece’s high quality of life without requiring traditional work sponsorship.

Why Choose Greece as a Digital Nomad?

• Affordable cost of living compared to other European countries
• 300+ days of sunshine per year, perfect for an outdoor lifestyle
• Access to the Schengen Zone, allowing easy travel across Europe
• Growing digital nomad community with coworking spaces and networking events
• Fast internet and infrastructure improvements in major cities and islands

This guide covers everything you need to know about the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, including eligibility requirements, the application process, tax implications, cost of living, and the best cities for remote work. Whether you're planning a short-term stay or looking for a long-term base in Europe, this guide will help you navigate the process smoothly.

Let’s dive in and explore how you can live and work remotely in Greece with the Digital Nomad Visa.

Who Can Apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa is designed for non-EU/EEA citizens who want to live in Greece while working remotely for a foreign employer or running a business abroad. This visa is ideal for:

• Remote employees working for companies not based in Greece
• Freelancers with clients outside Greece
• Business owners operating companies registered abroad

To qualify, applicants must meet the minimum income requirement of €3,500 per month after taxes (with an additional increase for dependents). Applicants must also provide proof of health insurance, clean criminal records, and accommodation in Greece.

This visa is available for those wishing to stay up to 12 months, with the option to apply for a residence permit for longer stays. If you’re working remotely and meet these requirements, the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is a great option for you.

Need help applying?

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Types of Greece Digital Nomad Visas

Greece offers two primary visa options for digital nomads who wish to live and work remotely in the country. These visas provide flexibility based on the length of stay and long-term residency goals.

1. Greece Digital Nomad Visa (Short-Term Stay)

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa is designed for non-EU/EEA citizens who work remotely for a company or clients outside Greece. This visa allows digital nomads to stay in Greece legally for up to 12 months.

Key Features:

• Available to freelancers, remote employees, and business owners with non-Greek clients
• Requires proof of a minimum income of €3,500 per month after taxes
• Does not permit employment with a Greek company
• Can be extended by applying for a Digital Nomad Residence Permit

This visa is ideal for digital nomads looking for a temporary base while fully complying with Greek immigration laws.

2. Greece Digital Nomad Residence Permit (Long-Term Stay)

For digital nomads who want to stay in Greece beyond one year, the Digital Nomad Residence Permit is available. This permit allows holders of the Digital Nomad Visa to extend their stay for an additional two years, with the option to renew for another two years.

Key Features:

• Requires the applicant to already hold a Digital Nomad Visa
• Must continue meeting income and remote work requirements
• Grants access to certain long-term residency benefits in Greece

The residence permit is a suitable option for remote workers who want to establish a longer-term base in Greece without committing to permanent residency or local employment.

Greece Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers who wish to live in Greece while working for a foreign employer or running a business outside the country. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria related to employment, income, and residency.

Professional Experience

Applicants do not need a specific number of years of professional experience, but they must demonstrate that they are actively employed or self-employed in a remote capacity. This can be proven through an employment contract, business registration documents, or client agreements if freelancing.

Proof of Income

To ensure financial stability while living in Greece, applicants must provide documentation proving their ability to sustain themselves without relying on local employment. Acceptable documents include:

• Bank statements from the last three to six months
• Pay slips or tax returns
• Employment contract confirming salary details

Employment Status

The visa is available to:

• Full-time remote employees working for companies outside Greece
• Freelancers with clients based outside Greece
• Entrepreneurs or business owners with companies registered abroad

Applicants cannot work for a Greek employer under this visa.

Minimum Annual Income

The minimum income requirement is €3,500 per month after taxes. If applying with family members, the requirement increases:

• +20% (€700) for a spouse
• +15% (€525) per dependent child

Health Insurance

Applicants must have comprehensive health insurance valid in Greece for the entire duration of their stay. The insurance should cover medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation if needed.

Accommodation

Proof of accommodation is required, which may include:

• A rental agreement
• A property ownership document
• A hotel or Airbnb booking for initial stays

Clean Criminal Record

A criminal record certificate issued by the applicant’s home country or country of residence is required. This document must be translated and apostilled where applicable.

Minimum Stay Requirement

There is no strict minimum stay requirement, but the visa is issued for up to 12 months. To apply for the Digital Nomad Residence Permit (valid for 2 years), applicants must be present in Greece before their initial visa expires.

Meeting these requirements ensures a smooth application process for those looking to work remotely from Greece.

Need help applying?

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How to Apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa

Applying for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps, from verifying your eligibility to completing immigration formalities upon arrival. Below is a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth application process.

Step 1 - Verify Your Eligibility

Before applying, confirm that you meet the following criteria:

• You are a non-EU/EEA citizen
• You work remotely for a company or clients based outside Greece
• You meet the minimum income requirement of €3,500 per month after taxes (with additional amounts required for dependents)
• You have valid health insurance covering your stay in Greece

Step 2 - Gather Required Documents

To apply, you must collect and submit:

• A completed visa application form
• A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity)
• Proof of employment (contract, company registration, or client agreements)
• Proof of income (bank statements, tax returns, or payslips)
• Health insurance certificate covering Greece
• Clean criminal record certificate from your home country
• Proof of accommodation (rental contract, hotel booking, or property deed)

Step 3 - Submit Your Application

Once your documents are ready, book an appointment at the nearest Greek embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to:

• Submit your application and documents
• Pay the visa fee (€75 plus any administrative fees)
• Attend an interview (if required)

Processing typically takes 10–30 working days, depending on the embassy.

Step 4 - Travel to Greece and Apply for a Residence Permit

If your visa is approved, you can enter Greece and stay for up to 12 months. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for a Digital Nomad Residence Permit within the first few weeks of arrival.

Step 5 - Complete Immigration Formalities

After arriving in Greece, visit the Aliens and Immigration Department to:

• Submit biometrics and additional paperwork
• Receive your residence permit (if applying for an extension)

Following these steps ensures a smooth transition to living and working remotely in Greece.

Need help applying?

Talk to a Digital Nomad Visa Expert

Book a consultation

Greece Digital Nomad Visa Cost

The cost of obtaining a Greece Digital Nomad Visa includes several mandatory fees. Applicants should budget for both visa processing and potential long-term residency costs if they plan to extend their stay.

Visa Application Fees

To apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, you must pay the following fees at the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country:

• Visa Application Fee: €75
• Administrative Fee (for dependents, if applicable): €150 per dependent

These fees must be paid upon submission of the application and are non-refundable, even if the visa is denied.

Residence Permit Fees (For Stays Beyond 12 Months)

If you plan to stay in Greece beyond the initial 12-month visa period, you must apply for a Digital Nomad Residence Permit. This permit is valid for two years and can be renewed for another two years. The costs include:

• Residence Permit Application Fee: €1,000
• Biometric Card Issuance Fee: €16

This residence permit must be applied for within Greece, and the total processing time may take several months.

Additional Costs to Consider

In addition to visa and permit fees, digital nomads should budget for other necessary expenses:

• Health Insurance: €30–€100 per month, depending on coverage
• Translation & Notarization of Documents: €50–€200 (if required)
• Criminal Record Certificate & Apostille Fees: €20–€50 (varies by country)
• Proof of Accommodation (Rent or Hotel Booking): Varies by location

Total Estimated Cost

Living in Greece as a Digital Nomad

Greece is an attractive destination for digital nomads, offering a Mediterranean climate, affordable living, reliable internet, and a thriving expat community. Whether you prefer the vibrant city life of Athens or the relaxed island atmosphere, Greece has something for every remote worker.

Best Cities for Digital Nomads

Greece has several digital nomad-friendly locations, each offering a unique experience:

• Athens – Best for city life, coworking spaces, and networking opportunities.
• Thessaloniki – A more affordable, laid-back city with excellent food and culture.
• Crete (Chania & Heraklion) – Ideal for island life with good internet and affordable rent.
• Rhodes – A great mix of history, beaches, and a growing expat community.
• Naxos & Paros – Up-and-coming islands for those seeking tranquility with good connectivity.

Each city offers a unique blend of affordability, infrastructure, and lifestyle options suitable for remote workers.

Cost of Living

Greece is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. The cost varies depending on the city, but here’s a general breakdown:

For digital nomads, a comfortable lifestyle in Greece typically costs between €1,200–€2,500 per month, depending on location and lifestyle choices.

Internet and Connectivity

Reliable internet is essential for digital nomads, and Greece has improved its network infrastructure significantly:

• Average Internet Speed: 50–200 Mbps in major cities, 20–50 Mbps on islands.
• Mobile Data: Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind offer affordable prepaid SIM cards with good 4G/5G coverage.
• Best Coworking Spaces: The Cube (Athens), OK!Thess (Thessaloniki), H2B Hub (Chania), Workhub Heraklion.

While larger cities have fast fiber-optic internet, some smaller islands may experience slower speeds, so it’s best to check before settling in.

Greece Lifestyle and Culture

Greece offers a relaxed pace of life, with locals embracing the “siga-siga” (slowly-slowly) lifestyle. Key cultural aspects include:

• Café Culture – Coffee shops are popular spots for remote work and socializing.
• Mediterranean Diet – Fresh seafood, olive oil, and healthy cuisine are staples.
• Siesta Hours – Many businesses close in the afternoon (2–5 PM) for a break.
• Festivals & Traditions – From Carnival in February to Orthodox Easter, Greece has vibrant cultural celebrations.

The cost of dining out is reasonable, with local tavernas offering meals for €10–€15 per person.

Transportation

Greece has a well-connected public transportation system in major cities, but options can be limited on islands.

• Athens Metro: Efficient and affordable, with tickets costing €1.20 per ride.
• Buses & Trams: Widely available in urban areas but slower than metro services.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Apps like Beat and Uber operate in Athens but can be pricey.
• Ferries: Essential for island hopping, with ticket prices ranging from €20–€80, depending on the distance and ferry type.
• Scooter & Car Rentals: Popular for exploring islands, with daily rentals starting at €20 for scooters and €30–€50 for cars.

For digital nomads planning to stay long-term, renting a scooter or using public transport is the best option.

Social Life and Networking

Greece has a growing digital nomad and expat community, making it easy to network and socialize.

• Coworking Spaces & Meetups: Regular events are held in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete.
• Facebook & Slack Groups: Digital Nomads Greece, Expats in Athens, and Crete Nomads are active communities.
• Outdoor Activities: From hiking in the mountains to sailing in the Aegean, Greece offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and group activities.

Greek locals are warm and welcoming, making it easy to integrate into the community. Whether you prefer a quiet island retreat or an urban lifestyle, Greece offers a well-balanced environment for digital nomads.

Tax Implications as a Digital Nomad in Greece

Understanding Greece’s tax system is essential for digital nomads looking to work remotely while residing in the country. Whether you owe taxes in Greece depends on your length of stay and your tax residency status.

Tax Residency in Greece

Greece follows the 183-day rule to determine tax residency:

• If you stay less than 183 days in a calendar year, you are not considered a tax resident and do not have to pay Greek taxes on foreign income.
• If you stay more than 183 days, you are classified as a Greek tax resident and may be taxed on your worldwide income.

Greek Income Tax Rates

If you become a tax resident, your income is taxed progressively:

Freelancers and business owners who register in Greece must also pay self-employment taxes and VAT, depending on their business structure.

Tax Incentives for Digital Nomads

Greece offers a 50% tax reduction for seven years to attract foreign professionals. To qualify, you must:

• Have not been a Greek tax resident in the past five years
• Live in Greece for at least two years
• Work remotely for a foreign company or as a self-employed professional

This incentive can significantly reduce tax liability for digital nomads who plan to stay long-term.

Double Taxation Agreements

Greece has double taxation treaties (DTAs) with over 100 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. These agreements help digital nomads avoid paying taxes in both their home country and Greece by allowing tax credits or exemptions.

Key Takeaways

• Stay under 183 days per year to avoid becoming a tax resident.
• If staying long-term, check if you qualify for the 50% tax reduction program.
• Review double taxation treaties to prevent being taxed in two countries.
• Seek tax advice to optimize your obligations if you plan to reside in Greece long-term.

By understanding these tax rules, digital nomads can better manage their finances and avoid unexpected tax liabilities while living in Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Work for a Greek Company with a Digital Nomad Visa?

No, the Greece Digital Nomad Visa only allows remote work for companies or clients outside Greece. You cannot be employed by a Greek company or conduct business within Greece under this visa.

2. How Long is the Greece Digital Nomad Visa Valid?

The visa is issued for 12 months. If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for a Digital Nomad Residence Permit, which is valid for two years and renewable for another two years.

3. Can I Bring My Family with Me?

Yes, dependents such as a spouse and children can apply for a family residence permit under your visa. However, your minimum income requirement increases:

Family members holding this visa cannot work in Greece.

4. Can I Travel to Other Schengen Countries with This Visa?

Yes, since Greece is part of the Schengen Zone, visa holders can travel freely within other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, the visa does not permit remote work in other Schengen countries long-term.

5. Do I Need to Pay Taxes in Greece?

If you stay in Greece for less than 183 days per year, you are not considered a tax resident and do not owe Greek taxes on your foreign income. If you stay more than 183 days, you may be required to pay Greek income tax on your worldwide income, unless covered by a double taxation treaty.

6. What is the Processing Time for the Digital Nomad Visa?

The application process typically takes 10 to 30 working days, depending on the Greek consulate handling your case. It’s recommended to apply at least 1–2 months before your planned move.

7. Can I Apply for Permanent Residency or Citizenship in Greece?

To apply for permanent residency, you must live in Greece legally for at least five years. For Greek citizenship, the requirement is seven years of continuous residence.

8. Do I Need a Local Bank Account for This Visa?

No, a local bank account is not required for the Digital Nomad Visa. However, if you stay long-term and apply for a residence permit, opening a Greek bank account may be helpful for rent payments and daily expenses.

9. Is Health Insurance Mandatory?

Yes, you must have private health insurance that covers your entire stay in Greece. The insurance must include medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation coverage.

10. What Happens If My Application is Rejected?

If your visa application is denied, you will receive a formal explanation from the Greek consulate. You may be able to reapply with additional documentation or appeal the decision if you believe an error was made.

11. What is the Cost of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa?

The visa application fee is €75, plus an administrative fee of €150 per dependent. If applying for a Digital Nomad Residence Permit, there is an additional fee of €1,000.

12. What Are the Best Cities in Greece for Digital Nomads?

Some of the most popular destinations include:

• Athens – Best for city life and coworking spaces
• Thessaloniki – Affordable and culturally rich
• Crete (Chania & Heraklion) – Ideal for island life with strong digital nomad communities
• Rhodes & Naxos – Good for a slower pace of life with reliable internet

By understanding these FAQs, digital nomads can better prepare for a smooth transition to life in Greece.