Greece Golden Visa Laws and Process: A Practical Guide

What is Immigration?

Immigration in Greece is the legal process for non-Greek nationals to enter, live, work, study, or reunite with family in Greece under Greek and EU law. It includes short stays (Schengen), long stays (national visas and residence permits), permanent residence, and naturalization.

In practice, immigration covers multiple pathways with specific rules: employment permits, the EU Blue Card for highly-skilled workers, family reunification, student and researcher permits, investment-based residence (the Golden Visa), and humanitarian routes like asylum. EU/EEA and Swiss citizens have free movement rights but still complete simple registration steps in Greece.

Why Might You Need Legal Help with Immigration?

You may need legal help to choose the correct permit, prepare compliant documents, meet deadlines, and avoid refusals or bans. Lawyers also help when changing status, appealing rejections, or dealing with delays at busy offices like Attica.

Greek immigration law uses detailed statutes, ministerial decisions, and quotas. A lawyer can analyze your profile, confirm eligibility, pre-check documents (translations, apostilles), book appointments, and manage filings on the Ministry portal. Legal counsel is especially useful for complex paths like the Golden Visa, intra-company transfers, EU Blue Card salary proof, family name discrepancies, overstays, or criminal-record issues.

How Does the Immigration Process Work?

For most third-country nationals, the basic sequence is: get the correct national visa (Type D) at a Greek consulate, travel to Greece, then apply for your residence permit within the legal timeframe. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens register locally without a visa, and recognized refugees use a separate process through the Asylum Service.

1. Assess eligibility and select the correct route (work, Blue Card, family reunification, student, researcher, investment, Digital Nomad, etc.).
2. Secure a Type D national visa at the Greek consulate with jurisdiction over your residence (Law 4251/2014, art. 18). Typical processing is 2-8 weeks.
3. Enter Greece and gather documents for the residence permit application, including translations and apostilles where needed.
4. File the residence permit application at the competent Decentralized Administration’s Directorate of Aliens and Immigration (Apokentromeni Dioikisi) or through the Ministry of Migration and Asylum’s online portal. Pay the e-paravolo fee and biometric card fee.
5. Receive a filing certificate (vevaiosi ypovolis aitisis). This confirms lawful stay and, depending on the category, may allow employment until your card is issued.
6. Attend biometrics and any interviews. Monitor your file status. Decision times vary by region and category, commonly 2-6 months but longer in high-volume areas such as Attica.
7. Collect your residence card. Respect renewal windows (usually 2 months before expiry) and update any changes (address, employer, family status).

What are the Specific Greece Legal Requirements?

Eligibility depends on the route. Greece applies category-specific requirements defined by Law 4251/2014 and related acts. Below are key routes and core requirements.

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens:
  • Right of entry and residence under EU free movement rules (Directive 2004/38/EC, PD 106/2007).
  • Registration Certificate (Veveosi Eggrafis) at the local Hellenic Police Aliens Bureau if staying beyond 3 months. Permanent Residence Certificate after 5 years.
• Family reunification (third-country nationals):
  • Sponsor must hold a valid residence permit and meet minimum income, accommodation, and health insurance criteria (PD 131/2006 implementing Directive 2003/86/EC; Law 4251/2014, arts. 69-73).
  • Family members typically include spouse and minor children. Documentation must be legalized and translated.
• Employment - dependent work:
  • Job offer aligned with regional labor market quotas set every 2 years (Law 4251/2014, art. 11, quota decision published in the Government Gazette).
  • Employment contract, proof of qualifications where relevant, and employer’s compliance with social insurance and tax.
• EU Blue Card - highly skilled:
  • Higher education or equivalent professional experience and a job offer meeting the salary threshold set under the recast EU Blue Card rules (Directive (EU) 2021/1883, implemented in Greece via Law 5038/2023).
  • Qualifications recognition if needed and health insurance coverage.
• Intra-company transfer (ICT):
  • Transfer from a company outside the EU to a host entity in Greece as manager, specialist, or trainee, meeting Directive 2014/66/EU conditions.
  • Proof of employment relationship and remuneration during the transfer.
• Students and researchers:
  • Admission to a Greek university or research organization, sufficient resources, and health insurance (Law 4251/2014, arts. 34-36; Directive (EU) 2016/801).
  • Limited work rights for students; researchers may have facilitated family reunification.
• Golden Visa - investment residence:
  • Real estate purchase meeting the current minimum threshold set by Law 4251/2014 art. 20B, as amended (with higher thresholds in certain areas per Law 5007/2022).
  • Clean title, proof of purchase funds, and compliance with property transfer taxes and notarial procedures.
• Digital Nomad:
  • Proof of remote work as an employee or freelancer outside Greece and sufficient stable income (Law 4825/2021, art. 11 and relevant ministerial decisions).
  • No local Greek employer for this category; family members may accompany subject to conditions.
• Asylum and international protection:
  • Application to the Asylum Service with registration, interview, and decision under Law 4636/2019.
  • Successful applicants receive refugee or subsidiary protection status and residence documentation.
• Long-term EU residence:
  • Five years of continuous legal residence, stable resources, health insurance, and integration conditions (PD 150/2006; Law 4251/2014).
• Naturalization:
  • Seven years of legal residence in most cases, good character, and passing the Certificate of Adequacy for Naturalization exam (PEGP - ΠΕΓΠ) (Law 3284/2004 as amended; standardized exams via 2021 regulations).

What Greece Laws and Regulations Apply?

The core law is Law 4251/2014 (Immigration and Social Integration Code), regularly amended to reflect EU directives and policy updates. Key implementing acts and related statutes govern specific categories and procedures.

• Law 4251/2014 - Immigration and Social Integration Code (main residence permit framework, visas, categories, sanctions).
• Law 5038/2023 - major amendments including implementation of the recast EU Blue Card (Directive (EU) 2021/1883) and procedural updates.
• Presidential Decree 106/2007 - EU free movement and residence for EU/EEA citizens and family (Directive 2004/38/EC).
• Presidential Decree 131/2006 - family reunification for third-country nationals (Directive 2003/86/EC).
• Presidential Decree 150/2006 - long-term resident status (Directive 2003/109/EC).
• Law 4636/2019 - Asylum Code for international protection, as amended.
• Law 5007/2022 - amendments affecting the Golden Visa thresholds in designated areas.
• Law 4825/2021 - Digital Nomad visa framework and other migration provisions.
• Schengen Visa Code - Regulation (EC) 810/2009 (short-stay visas) and Schengen Borders Code.
• Relevant Joint Ministerial Decisions (JMDs) - 2-year labor quotas (art. 11, Law 4251/2014), income thresholds, fee schedules, and procedural rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a residence permit in Greece?

Typical processing is 2-6 months from filing, but Attica often takes longer due to volume. You receive a filing certificate that keeps you legal while you wait.

Timing depends on category, office workload, and whether your file is complete. Biometrics appointments can add weeks. If documents are missing or quotas are closed, expect delays. Renewals often process faster if you file early with full documentation.

Where do I apply for my residence permit?

You apply at the competent Directorate of Aliens and Immigration of the Decentralized Administration for your place of residence or via the Ministry of Migration and Asylum’s online portal. Your initial national visa is obtained at the Greek consulate abroad.

In Attica and Thessaloniki, specific offices handle high volumes. Always verify the correct office and booking method on the Ministry website or gov.gr, as many services have moved to online filing and e-appointments.

What fees should I expect?

Expect a national visa fee (often around 90 euros), an e-paravolo administrative fee for the residence permit (amount varies by category), and a biometric card fee. Additional costs include translations, apostilles, and any notarial acts.

For investment and some multi-year permits the e-paravolo is higher than for student or family permits. Golden Visa applicants also pay notary, registry, and property transfer taxes. Always check current fees on gov.gr as they can change by JMD.

Can I work while my application is pending?

It depends on your category, but many work-based applicants can work with the filing certificate. Students have limited work rights and must follow their permit conditions.

Your vevaiosi specifies rights. Family members of workers or Blue Card holders may also gain access to the labor market. Always keep a copy of your filing certificate and passport with you when working.

What is the Golden Visa threshold now?

The minimum investment is set by Law 4251/2014 art. 20B and has increased in certain high-demand areas under Law 5007/2022. Many areas remain at a lower threshold, but designated zones require a higher one.

Because thresholds and eligible areas can change, confirm the current minimum and any property-type restrictions with the Ministry of Migration and Asylum and a Greek notary before signing a contract or placing a deposit.

Do EU/EEA citizens need a residence permit?

EU/EEA and Swiss citizens do not need a residence permit, but must register if staying more than 3 months. They obtain a Registration Certificate from the Hellenic Police Aliens Bureau.

After 5 years of continuous residence they may obtain a Permanent Residence Certificate. Family members who are third-country nationals may need a residence card as family of an EU citizen.

How does the EU Blue Card work in Greece?

The EU Blue Card allows highly skilled third-country nationals to live and work in Greece with a qualifying job offer and salary threshold. Greece implements the recast Directive (EU) 2021/1883 via Law 5038/2023.

You must prove higher education or equivalent experience, meet the salary threshold tied to national averages, and have health insurance. The permit is typically issued for 1-3 years and is renewable.

What if my application is refused?

You can file an appeal within the deadline stated in the decision, usually before the Administrative Appeals Committee or competent authority. A lawyer can assess grounds, prepare evidence, and represent you.

Do not ignore a refusal, as it can lead to unlawful stay and an entry ban. Keep copies of all documents and note the date you received the decision to calculate deadlines accurately.

How do I get long-term EU resident status?

After 5 years of continuous legal residence with stable resources and health insurance, you can apply for long-term EU resident status. You must meet integration conditions and have no serious public order issues.

This status offers enhanced mobility and rights within the EU compared to ordinary national permits. It is governed by PD 150/2006 and Law 4251/2014.

How does naturalization work in Greece?

Most applicants need 7 years of legal residence, clean criminal record, and to pass the Certificate of Adequacy for Naturalization (PEGP). Children educated in Greece may follow facilitated routes under Law 4332/2015.

Processing can take 2-5 years depending on the region and case complexity. You submit to the Ministry of Interior through local competent services for nationality matters, not the migration directorates.

When Should You Hire a Lawyer?

Hire a lawyer when your case is complex, time-sensitive, or high-stakes, such as Golden Visa purchases, EU Blue Card salary calculations, family reunification with documentation gaps, or prior overstays. You should also seek counsel for refusals, appeals, or criminal-record disclosures.

Lawyers in Greece can handle filings on your behalf with a power of attorney, coordinate translations and apostilles, interact with the Decentralized Administration, and monitor your file. Typical legal fees range from a few hundred euros for straightforward filings to several thousand for investment and appeal work. Ask for a written fee quote that breaks down government fees, legal fees, and third-party costs.

What are the Next Steps?

Start by identifying your best route, checking current requirements on gov.gr and the Ministry of Migration and Asylum website, and gathering your documents early. Then plan your visa application, Greek entry, and residence permit filing within statutory deadlines.

1. Choose your pathway and confirm eligibility against the relevant law articles (for example, Law 4251/2014 categories, PD 131/2006 for family reunification).
2. Collect civil status documents and academic credentials. Arrange certified translations into Greek and apostilles or consular legalization as required.
3. Book your Type D visa appointment at the Greek consulate with jurisdiction over your residence. Prepare proof of funds, insurance, and purpose of stay.
4. Enter Greece and immediately schedule your filing appointment or submit online, pay the e-paravolo and biometric card fee, and obtain your filing certificate.
5. Attend biometrics and respond promptly to any requests for additional documents. Track your case and plan renewals 2 months before expiry.
6. If you face obstacles, consult an immigration lawyer for strategy, document remediation, or appeals.

What are the Specific Greece Authorities and Practical Points?

Greece’s immigration system involves national, regional, and local authorities. Knowing who does what helps you avoid delays.

• Ministry of Migration and Asylum (Ypourgeio Metanastefsis kai Asylou) - policy, digital portals, permits oversight.
• Decentralized Administrations (Apokentromenes Dioikiseis) - Directorates of Aliens and Immigration that receive and decide most residence permit applications.
• Hellenic Police Aliens Bureaus - EU/EEA registrations and residence documents for EU citizens and their family members.
• Greek Consulates - issue national visas (Type D) and Schengen visas (Type C) abroad.
• Asylum Service and Regional Asylum Offices - manage international protection (Law 4636/2019).
• Notaries and Land Registries - essential in Golden Visa property transactions.

Practical tips:

• Always keep copies of your filings and the vevaiosi. Carry ID and proof of lawful stay.
• Use the e-Paravolo system for fees and keep payment receipts.
• Expect longer queues in Attica. Filing early and using complete documentation reduces delays.
• Stay updated on quota decisions for employment permits and any regional Golden Visa threshold changes.

Common Routes Compared

Timeline and Costs in Greece

Expect 2-8 weeks for a Type D visa and 2-6 months for a residence permit, with longer times in Attica. Family reunification and investment routes may move faster if documents are complete, while employment can depend on quotas.

• Consular Type D visa: around 90 euros plus service fees if using a VAC.
• Residence permit administrative fee (e-paravolo): varies by category; higher for investment and some multi-year permits; lower for students and minors.
• Biometric card fee: payable for each card issued.
• Translations and apostilles: budget 10-30 euros per page for certified translations, more for complex documents.
• Legal fees: roughly 300-800 euros for straightforward filings; 1,500-3,000 euros or more for investment routes; appeals vary by complexity.

Recent Changes and Practical Updates

Law 5038/2023 updated many procedures and transposed the recast EU Blue Card Directive (EU) 2021/1883, adjusting eligibility and mobility rules. Law 5007/2022 increased Golden Visa thresholds in designated areas, effective after subsequent guidance and transition timelines.

Many services are now online via the Ministry of Migration and Asylum portals on gov.gr, including e-appointments and application tracking. Employment quotas for third-country nationals are set every two years under Law 4251/2014 art. 11, so availability may differ by region and occupation.

How Do Appeals and Compliance Work?

If you receive a negative decision, you generally have a short deadline to appeal, which stops execution measures while pending if filed correctly. Overstays can trigger fines, entry bans, or future refusals, so act quickly if your status lapses.

• Appeals: file to the competent Administrative Appeals Committee or authority named in the decision. Provide new evidence and legal grounds.
• Status proof: carry your filing certificate and ID. Keep your contact details updated to receive notifications.
• Renewals: file within statutory windows, usually up to 2 months before expiry. Late renewals risk fines or gaps in lawful stay.

Documentation Basics

Greece requires legalized and translated documents and precise formatting. Missing or mismatched details cause delays.

• Translations: use certified translators or the official service accepted by Greek authorities. Documents should be translated into Greek.
• Legalization: apply apostille under the Hague Convention, or consular legalization for non-apostille countries.
• Identity consistency: names and dates must match across passports, civil certificates, and contracts. Fix discrepancies before filing.
• Insurance: health insurance coverage is required for most categories. Bring policy certificates in Greek or accompanied by a certified translation.

Tax and Social Insurance Touchpoints

Tax and social insurance compliance is often checked during immigration. Employees and many self-employed must register for AMKA/PAAYPA and AFM.

• AFM (Tax Number): issued by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE).
• AMKA or PAAYPA (temporary AMKA for asylum seekers): for social insurance and healthcare access.
• IKA-EFKA: social insurance contributions for employees and certain categories of self-employed.

Golden Visa and Property Pitfalls

The Golden Visa requires careful property due diligence to avoid title defects, zoning issues, or ineligible property types. Thresholds can vary by location and change over time.

• Use a Greek notary and a real estate lawyer to verify title, encumbrances, and building compliance.
• Confirm the area’s current threshold and any minimum property size or usage restrictions before committing funds.
• Keep clear proof of investment funds transfer from abroad in your name.

Asylum System Snapshot

International protection is separate from ordinary migration routes. Applicants register with the Asylum Service, receive an applicant card, and attend an interview.

Law 4636/2019 governs eligibility and procedures. Recognized refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection receive residence documents and can later apply for long-term status or naturalization under favorable timelines.

When Does Status Lead to Permanent Residence or Citizenship?

After 5 years on qualifying residence permits you can seek long-term EU resident status, and after 7 years you can usually apply for naturalization if you meet integration and character tests. Some categories, like refugees or parents of Greek minors, have shorter durations.

Keep continuous residence, avoid long absences, and retain proof of income and insurance. Prepare early for the PEGP exam if naturalization is your goal.

When Should You Hire a Lawyer?

Hire a lawyer if you face tight deadlines, prior overstays, refusals, complex documentation, investment decisions, or employer-driven categories like Blue Card or ICT. Legal guidance can prevent errors that cause months of delay.

A lawyer can outline realistic timelines and costs, liaise with authorities, and represent you in appeals. For property-based routes, a notary and real estate lawyer are essential to safeguard your investment and ensure eligibility for the permit.

What are the Next Steps?

Map your route, confirm the legal basis, and build a complete document set before any appointments. Book your Type D visa, enter Greece, and file your residence permit application within the legal timeframe with all required fees paid.

1. Check the Ministry of Migration and Asylum pages on gov.gr for your category and required documents.
2. Collect civil and financial documents, arrange certified Greek translations and apostilles.
3. Schedule and attend your consular Type D visa appointment.
4. Arrive in Greece and file at the competent Decentralized Administration or online. Obtain your filing certificate.
5. Complete biometrics, monitor your application, and respond to any requests. Plan renewals in advance.
6. If unsure or facing obstacles, consult a Greek immigration lawyer to finalize strategy and representation.