Greece digital nomad visa: working remotely by the sea

Remote work has long been normal, and Greece was one of the first countries in Europe to give remote workers their own residence permit. If you are a developer, designer, marketer or consultant working from a laptop, this route is for you.

Who qualifies

• You are employed by a company outside Greece or provide services to clients outside Greece.
• Your income is at least €3,500 a month after tax.
• Add 20% for a spouse and 15% for each child.
• You cannot work for Greek companies or Greek clients on this visa.

Income is proved with an employment contract or client contracts and bank statements, not a one-off balance on your card.

Two steps: visa and permit

1. The digital nomad visa at a Greek consulate, valid for up to 12 months. The consular fee is €75 plus about €150 in admin charges.
2. The digital nomad residence permit in Greece, for 2 years and renewable. The fee is €1,000 and the card €16. You can apply while in Greece on the visa.

You need health insurance for the whole period and a rental or purchase contract. Your family can move with you.

The tax break

If you become a Greek tax resident, you can ask for 50% of your income to be tax-exempt for 7 years. It is a separate application to the tax office and is not automatic: you must not have been a Greek resident in the previous years and must commit to staying. Discuss it with an accountant before you move.

Where a nomad should live

For work you need good internet and a place that is alive all year, not only in summer. So I suggest looking at Thessaloniki, Kavala or the larger towns of Crete rather than small resort villages that empty out in winter. A flat with a separate room for an office is a big plus.

My advice

Collect contracts and statements for at least six months and check straight away how you will pay tax. If you like, I can help you find a home for the rental contract and recommend a lawyer who handles these applications.