Best Dependent Visa Lawyers in Kos

1. About Dependent Visa Law in Kos, Greece

The Dependent Visa framework in Greece allows family members of a third-country national who holds lawful residence to join them in Greece. In Kos, as in the rest of the country, this is governed by Greece's family reunification provisions under national immigration law. Local police and immigration offices on the island handle application intake, documentation checks, and residence permit decisions.

In practice, dependents may apply for a residence permit that ties their status to the sponsoring family member. Processing times vary with season and local workload, but island offices in the Dodecanese often experience peaks during tourist periods. Applicants should plan for both visa entry and post-entry residence steps on Kos.

For accurate, up-to-date guidance, rely on official government resources that cover family reunification procedures and required documents. Kos residents benefit from online portals that centralize steps, forms, and timelines for hearings and permits.

Source: Migration Portal guidance on family reunification for third-country nationals residing in Greece - migrations.gov.gr

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Marriage-based and dependent visa cases often hinge on precise documentation and timely submissions. A qualified lawyer helps prevent avoidable refusals or delays by addressing gaps before submission. In Kos, island-specific delays and local authority interpretations can impact outcomes.

• A spouse with a non-standard or incomplete marriage documentation from abroad encounters a high risk of denial without proper translation, apostilles, and local authentication. A lawyer can guide you through apostille processes and Greek translations to meet authorities' expectations.
• You face a visa denial due to insufficient financial evidence or irregular income history. An attorney can structure a compliant financial plan and compile supporting evidence that meets local thresholds.
• Parental or dependent family members require long-term residence after initial entry. A lawyer helps prepare renewal packages and demonstrates continued dependency or qualifying relationships to avoid gaps in status.
• Engaging in fast-track or urgent processing due to family health or emergencies. A skilled legal counsel can request priority consideration and navigate administrative channels effectively.
• Documentation changes after marriage or birth of a child, including name changes or custody orders, must be updated with authorities. A lawyer ensures consistency across all official records to prevent misfiled applications.
• If a request is refused, a lawyer can assess appeal options, prepare a well-founded appeal or administrative review, and guide you through potential reapplication with stronger documentation.

Working with an immigration lawyer in Kos increases clarity about eligibility, reduces risk of errors, and improves the chance of timely approval. A local attorney with experience in Greek family reunification matters can coordinate with island authorities and national agencies on your behalf.

3. Local Laws Overview

Greece regulates dependent and family reunification through national statutes that govern entry, stay, and social integration of third-country nationals. The key laws provide the framework for who qualifies as a dependent and how residence permits are issued and renewed on Greek soil, including Kos.

• Law 4251/2014 (Entry, Stay and Social Integration of Third-Country Nationals in the Hellenic Republic). This statute structures residence permits for family members and the overall process for obtaining and renewing status. It has been amended since its enactment to reflect changing administrative practices and digital submissions.
• Law 3386/2005 (On the Entry, Residence and Social Integration of Third-Country Nationals in Greece). This earlier framework remains relevant as the foundation for family reunification provisions and the definitions of eligible dependents, with later amendments aligning it to contemporary procedures.

Recent developments emphasize digital processing and unified portals for documentation. In Kos, the practical effect is that applicants may submit through central portals and then complete steps at the local Aliens Department or police station, depending on the case stage.

Source: Greek migration policy overview and family reunification guidance - migrations.gov.gr

Additional context on implementation and law references from Greek authorities - astynomia.gr (Hellenic Police) and UNHCR Greece

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as a dependent for a Greek residence permit?

A dependent typically includes a spouse, minor child, or adult dependent who relies on the Greek resident for support. Documentation must prove the relationship and ongoing dependency to meet requirements set by law.

How do I start a family reunification application in Kos?

You generally begin with a petition to the local Aliens Department or competent police authority in Kos. The process includes submitting forms, passports, relationship proofs, and financial evidence.

Do I need a lawyer to apply for a Dependent Visa in Kos?

While not mandatory, a lawyer helps ensure documents meet Greek standards, reduces errors, and may speed processing. An attorney with immigration focus can tailor strategies to Kos-specific office practices.

How long does the dependent visa process usually take in Greece?

Processing can range from 3 to 9 months, depending on season and case complexity. In Kos, local office backlogs may extend timelines during peak tourist periods.

What documents are commonly required for family reunification in Kos?

Expect passports, birth and marriage certificates with apostilles, translations into Greek, proof of the sponsor's lawful residence, and evidence of sufficient funds.

Can a dependent be granted permission if they already entered Greece on another visa?

Yes, but the application must align with family reunification rules and demonstrate the ongoing dependency. A change of status may be required at the Aliens Department.

How much does legal help for a Dependent Visa typically cost in Kos?

Costs vary by lawyer and complexity, but expect consultation fees plus possible flat or hourly rates for filing, document review, and representation. Ask for a written engagement letter detailing fees.

Is it possible to include multiple dependents in a single application?

In some cases, you may file for several dependents together, but each family member's eligibility must be proven separately. Separate submissions with complete documentation may be required.

What happens if a dependent visa application is refused in Kos?

You can typically appeal or request a review within the established deadlines. A lawyer can help prepare the grounds for appeal and gather additional supporting evidence.

Do I need Greek translations for all documents?

Yes, official documents usually require Greek translations performed by a certified translator. Apostilles or legalizations may also be needed for foreign documents.

Can dependents work once their permit is issued in Greece?

Work rights depend on the specific permit type and conditions. Some family residence permits include work rights after registration; confirm the exact terms with a lawyer or authorities.

Can I travel outside Greece while a dependent visa is pending?

Travel is possible, but you must hold a valid visa or entry permit. Leaving Greece during processing can affect the timeline or status of the application.

5. Additional Resources

• Migration Portal - migrations.gov.gr: Official government hub for migration policies, family reunification, and residence permits in Greece. It provides forms, timelines, and applicant guidance. https://migrations.gov.gr
• Hellenic Police - Aliens and Immigration Department: Responsible for processing residence permits, visa stamping, and enforcement related to third-country nationals. https://www.astynomia.gr
• UNHCR Greece: Provides information and support for asylum seekers and family reunification considerations for refugees and stateless persons. https://www.unhcr.org/gr

6. Next Steps

1. Define your goal and gather a basic timeline for Kos-based residency. Write down the family members and relationships involved.
2. Identify a licensed Greek immigration attorney with experience in Kos and family reunification cases. Schedule initial consultations to compare strategies.
3. Prepare a document checklist early. Gather passports, marriage and birth certificates, translations, apostilles, and proof of funds for every dependent.
4. Submit applications through the Kos Aliens Department or the central migration portal as advised by your lawyer. Ensure all forms are complete and consistent.
5. Request a confirmation of receipt and track processing timelines with the attorney. Prepare for possible follow-up requests from authorities.
6. Plan for renewals well in advance. Maintain up-to-date documentation, including any changes in family status or residence.
7. If an issue arises, rely on your attorney to file appeals or administrative reviews within legal deadlines and to coordinate with local authorities in Kos.