Greece

Q: Is Greece a good place to move for digital nomads and remote workers?

Yes, Greece is an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. The country offers a specific Digital Nomad Visa, modern coworking spaces in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, reliable internet, and a low cost of living compared to other EU nations.

Q: What visa do I need to live in Greece long-term?

The most common long-term residency options include the Golden Visa (through real estate investment), the Digital Nomad Visa (for remote workers), and the Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa for retirees and passive income earners.

Q: How much money do I need to move to Greece?

This depends on your residency path. Digital nomads must show a monthly income of at least €3,500. For retirees or passive income visas, the requirement starts at €2,000 per month. If you’re applying through the Golden Visa, property investment starts at €250,000 or €500,000 depending on the location.

Q: Can Americans move to Greece easily?

Yes, U.S. citizens can move to Greece through various visa options. Greece is popular among Americans for its lifestyle, affordability, and EU residency benefits. Americans can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, but staying long-term requires a residence permit.

Q: Is healthcare in Greece good for expats?

Greece has both public and private healthcare systems. While public healthcare is accessible once you’re insured, most expats opt for private insurance due to shorter wait times and access to English-speaking doctors.

Q: What are the best cities or regions in Greece to live in as an expat?

Popular destinations include Athens for urban living, Thessaloniki for culture and affordability, and Crete or the Cycladic Islands (like Paros and Naxos) for relaxed island lifestyles. The Peloponnese is favored by retirees and families.

Q: Do I need to speak Greek to live in Greece?

While knowing Greek is helpful, especially in rural areas, English is widely spoken in cities and among younger Greeks. Many legal and relocation professionals also offer bilingual services.

Q: Can I buy property in Greece as a foreigner?

Yes, non-EU citizens can legally buy property in Greece. In fact, property ownership is one of the key routes to obtaining residency through the Greece Golden Visa program.

Q: How long does it take to get residency in Greece?

Residency permits like the Digital Nomad Visa or Golden Visa are typically processed within 2 to 6 months, depending on the application route and your documentation.

Q: Does Greece offer tax incentives for new residents?

Yes. Greece offers attractive tax incentives including a 50% income tax exemption for remote workers and a flat 7% tax rate for foreign retirees from qualifying countries.

Greece isn’t just a destination — it’s a lifestyle. From the Aegean coastline to the cobblestone streets of Athens, Greece offers a seamless blend of ancient wonder and modern convenience. Whether you're a remote worker seeking inspiration, a retiree pursuing peace, or a family dreaming of an EU future, Greece welcomes you with open arms—and a bureaucracy that’s becoming more expat-friendly by the year.

Why Relocate to Greece?

With its strategic location in Southeast Europe, favorable visa programs, and growing expat networks, Greece is quickly becoming one of the most desirable relocation destinations in the European Union.

Key benefits of relocating to Greece include:

Low-cost, high-quality lifestyle compared to Western Europe
Residency-by-investment opportunities through real estate
Visa-free access to the Schengen Area
Friendly tax incentives for digital workers and retirees
Beautiful climate, coastal living, and access to nature

Imagine sipping coffee at a seaside café in Naxos, logging into your remote job, and then spending your evening watching the sunset over ancient ruins. That’s not a vacation. That’s everyday life in Greece.

Residency Pathways in Greece

Whether you're investing, working remotely, or living on passive income, Greece offers multiple immigration pathways to suit your lifestyle.

Greece Golden Visa: Real Estate Investment Residency

One of Europe’s most accessible Golden Visa programs:

Minimum investment: €250,000 (increased to €500,000 in select urban areas like Athens, Thessaloniki, and parts of the Cyclades)
5-year renewable residence permit
No minimum physical stay requirement
Eligibility for permanent residency and citizenship after 7 years

This is an ideal option for global citizens looking to acquire EU residency through strategic real estate investments.

Digital Nomad Visa

Designed for remote workers and freelancers employed by non-Greek companies:

Monthly net income requirement: €3,500 (plus 20% for a spouse and 15% per child)
Valid for 12 months, renewable for another year
Requires proof of remote employment or freelance income
Eligible applicants can benefit from reduced tax obligations under Greece’s relocation incentive scheme

Greece is positioning itself as a leading destination for remote professionals with lifestyle and financial incentives.

Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa

Perfect for retirees or individuals with passive income:

Monthly income requirement: €2,000 per person (plus €400 per dependent)
Applicants cannot work in Greece
Must show proof of accommodation and health insurance

This visa is ideal for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle and peaceful residency in a culturally rich environment.

Where to Live in Greece

Greece offers diverse living environments for all types of relocators:

Athens: Historic capital with modern infrastructure and international schools
Thessaloniki: Artistic and cultural hub with a vibrant student and expat community
Crete: The largest island with great infrastructure and local culture
Cycladic Islands: Paros, Naxos, Syros for laid-back island living with easier year-round access
Peloponnese: Excellent for families, retirees, and nature lovers

Cost of Living

Compared to other EU countries, Greece offers excellent value:

Rent in central Athens: €500–€900 for a one-bedroom
Groceries and dining out are significantly cheaper than in Western Europe or North America
Health insurance and healthcare services are affordable and accessible

Healthcare in Greece

Greece has both public and private healthcare options. While the public system is accessible once insured, many expats prefer private insurance for shorter wait times and English-speaking services.

Taxes and Financial Incentives

Greece offers an increasingly favorable tax environment for foreign residents:

50% income tax exemption for workers relocating to Greece for up to 7 years
7% flat tax for foreign pensioners relocating from qualifying countries (valid for 10 years)
Lump-sum taxation regime for high-net-worth individuals
Double taxation treaties with over 50 countries, including the U.S.

These incentives make Greece a smart financial choice for remote workers, retirees, and investors alike.

How Relocate.world Can Help

Relocating to Greece involves important decisions around visas, taxes, property, and lifestyle. Relocate.world connects you with licensed professionals who can guide your journey with personalized, bilingual support.

Our services include:

Visa strategy and legal services
Cross-border tax and financial planning
Real estate advisory and buyer representation
Ongoing relocation support

Find Your Trusted Advisor in Greece

Search our network of vetted professionals who specialize in helping individuals and families relocate to Greece.