How to Apply for Greek Citizenship

A step-by-step guide to the Greek nationality application process

Understanding the Greek Citizenship Application Process

Applying for Greek citizenship is a structured legal procedure that depends entirely on the applicant’s legal basis of eligibility. Identifying the correct pathway is the most critical step, as each route involves different documentation, timelines, and statutory requirements.

Greek citizenship applications must be submitted in person, either in Greece or through the competent Greek consulate abroad, in accordance with Greek nationality law.

Greek Citizenship Application Routes

The documentation and procedure depend on the legal pathway under which eligibility arises.

1. Greek Citizenship by Descent

Born to a Greek parent
Greek grandparent
Greek great-grandparent (with intermediate registrations)

Estimated processing time: 3 months to 3 years

2. Greek Citizenship by Naturalization

Seven (7) years of lawful residence in Greece
Greek language, history, and culture knowledge
Clean criminal record
Financial stability

Estimated processing time: 12–24 months

3. Greek Citizenship by Marriage

Three (3) years of marriage to a Greek citizen
Three (3) years of continuous residence in Greece
Greek language proficiency
Integration into Greek society

Estimated processing time: 6–12 months

4. Greek Citizenship by Investment (Golden Visa)

Qualifying real estate investment (€250,000–€800,000)
Seven (7) years of lawful residence
Language and integration requirements

Residence permit: 2–3 months
Citizenship eligibility: After 7 years

Submitting Your Greek Citizenship Application

Residents of Greece: Regional Directorate of Citizenship
Residents abroad: Competent Greek consulate

Step 1: Document Preparation

Valid passport
Birth certificate
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Criminal record certificate
Proof of residence
Income documentation
Greek language certification
Citizenship exam results
Route-specific supporting documents

Step 2: Document Authentication & Translation

Apostille for foreign documents
Official Greek translations
Registration with Greek authorities

Step 3: Application Submission

Appointment scheduling
Filing of complete application
Payment of government fees
Biometric data submission

Step 4: Administrative Review

Review period: 6–24 months
Requests for additional documents
Interview, where required

Step 5: Oath & Citizenship Confirmation

Oath of allegiance to the Hellenic Republic
Issuance of citizenship certificate
Application for Greek passport

Fees & Costs

Government Fees

Citizenship application: €100
Document registration: €15–€30
Citizenship exam: €250
Greek passport: €84.40

Additional Expenses

Certified translations: €20–€40 per page
Apostille certification: €30–€50
Legal assistance (if required)
Greek language courses: €500–€2,000

Common Challenges

Missing civil records
Name or date discrepancies
Insufficient language preparation
Administrative delays

After Acquiring Greek Citizenship

Municipal registration
Greek passport application
Voter registration
Tax and social security updates

Professional Guidance

Proper preparation of the citizenship file is often the decisive factor between approval and prolonged delay. Professional legal guidance minimizes risk and ensures procedural accuracy.