Work, study and family: the classic routes to Greek residency

The Golden Visa and passive-income visas are not the only ways to live in Greece. There are also the ordinary routes that thousands of people use every year: work, study and family reunification. They cost less but need more paperwork and patience.

Residency through work

• You need an employer in Greece. They file an invitation for you, and only after approval do you get a national D visa and a residence permit.
• The EU Blue Card is for specialists with a degree or long experience and a high salary. It is easier to renew and easier to bring your family on.
• Seasonal work in tourism and agriculture covers a few months a year.

A work permit is tied to your contract: if you lose your job, you need to find a new one quickly or switch to another basis.

Residency through study

If you are accepted by a Greek university, college or language programme, you get a student visa and then a permit for the length of your studies. It is renewed every year as long as you are genuinely studying. You need an acceptance letter, money to live on, housing and insurance.

Residency through family

• Family reunification: a spouse and minor children can join a relative already living legally in Greece, as a rule for at least two years and with sufficient income.
• Spouses of Greek and EU citizens get a separate family member card, which is simpler and faster.

What comes next: long-term status and citizenship

• After 5 years of legal residence you can apply for EU long-term resident status. You must show income and knowledge of the Greek language and history.
• After 7 years you can apply for citizenship, with an exam in language, history and culture.

Years on different permits can often be added together, as long as there is no gap.

My advice

Keep all your cards and renewals in one folder and never miss a renewal deadline: apply early, not on the last day. If you are moving for work or study, I can help you find a home near your job or university, because a rental contract is needed for the permit in any case.