Greece

Moving to Greece

This emerald studded country of Mediterranean islands is one of the most desirable destinations to visit. Slate white sandstone amongst sharp blue skies and crystal seas fills the soul – so why not do what the Greeks did, and stay?

One of the most ancient and intellectually influential civilizations of mankind, there are remnants of history everywhere you turn. Ask any Grecian about the doric toppled columns, and they would say that these serve as reminders. Reminders of what you may ask? Of our progressiveness.

Recent history has brought great struggle to the capital city, Athens. Economic collapse hit like a perfect storm to the already widening age-gap. Indebted geopolitical ties within the European Union helped pull Greece through the darkest financial days, and provided a foundation for rebuilding. In fact, this means that it is an ideal time for anyone seeking to breathe in some sea-salt and stay longer than a 10-day cruise to the top-destinations. A buyers market for real-estate, high-quality of life and low-cost-of living has resulted in an empathetic and dynamic international community that call Greece there home.

And the Greek Government knows this – from tax-incentives for retirees and pensioners, to new visa pathways for Digital Nomads – there is no shortage of space on any of any of the 227 emerald studded islands that await. Add to this easy access to the rest of Europe and and unparalleled mediterranean culture, Greece is here to stay. Are you?

What is it like to live in Greece?

Greece is a country in southeastern Europe with a rich history and a diverse culture. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and friendly people. The climate in Greece is Mediterranean, which means it has mild winters and hot, dry summers. The country is made up of a mainland and thousands of islands, so there are many different regions to explore.

Living in Greece can be quite enjoyable, especially if you enjoy spending time outdoors and experiencing new cultures. The cost of living in Greece is relatively low compared to other European countries, and the country has a strong social welfare system. Greeks place a great value on family and community, and it is common for people to spend time with their loved ones and participate in social activities.

However, there are also some challenges to living in Greece. The economy has struggled in recent years, and unemployment rates have been high. Additionally, the country has a high level of bureaucracy, which can make it difficult to navigate certain systems and processes.

Overall, living in Greece can be a unique and rewarding experience. It offers a mix of ancient history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, and is a great place for those who enjoy exploring new cultures and ways of life.

Immigration and Visa Options for Greece

Greece is a member of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Agreement, which allows for free movement of people within the EU and certain other countries. If you are a citizen of an EU country, you do not need a visa to enter Greece and can stay for an unlimited period of time.

If you are a citizen of a non-EU country, you may need a visa to enter Greece, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. There are several types of visas available, including:

Short-stay visas: These visas allow you to stay in Greece for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. They are issued for tourism, business, family visits, and other purposes.

Long-stay visas: These visas allow you to stay in Greece for more than 90 days. They are issued for work, study, family reunification, and other purposes.

Airport transit visas: These visas are required for certain non-EU citizens who are transiting through the airport in Greece on their way to another country.

To apply for a visa, you will need to visit the nearest Greek embassy or consulate and submit the necessary documents, including a valid passport, proof of purpose of stay, and evidence of sufficient funds. The process for obtaining a visa can take several weeks, so it is important to plan ahead if you need one.

It is also worth noting that if you are planning to stay in Greece for an extended period of time, you may need to apply for a residence permit. This can be done at the local police department or the Aliens Directorate of the Ministry of Citizen Protection.

Remote Work in Greece

Greece can be a good place for remote workers, as it has a relatively low cost of living and a good quality of life. The country has a strong tourism industry, which means that there are many places to stay, including hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals. The country also has good internet connectivity and a range of co-working spaces and cafes with WiFi that can be used for remote work.

The climate in Greece is Mediterranean, which means it has mild winters and hot, dry summers. This can be a good environment for those who enjoy being outdoors and spending time on the beach. The country is made up of a mainland and thousands of islands, so there are many different regions to explore, each with its own unique culture and natural beauty.

However, it is worth noting that the economy in Greece has struggled in recent years, and unemployment rates have been high. This means that finding work as a remote worker may be more difficult than in some other countries. Additionally, the bureaucracy in Greece can be challenging, which can make it difficult to navigate certain systems and processes.

Overall, Greece can be a good place for remote workers, but it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons and to do your research before making the decision to move there.