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All Types of Greek Visas Explained

Long-Term Residence and Immigration Options in Greece

A Greek visa is an official authorization issued by the Hellenic Republic allowing non-EU nationals to enter, reside in, or transit through Greece for a defined period and legal purpose.

While citizens of countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK may enter Greece visa-free for up to 90 days, any stay beyond this limit requires a visa or residence permit issued in advance.

1. Schengen Visa (Type C – Short-Stay)

The Schengen visa allows travel and residence within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It is suitable for tourism, business visits, family visits, and short professional activities.

Common Requirements

  • Completed visa application form
  • Valid passport (minimum 3 months validity)
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Proof of sufficient financial means
  • Travel medical insurance (€30,000 minimum coverage)

 

Employment is not permitted under a Schengen visa.

2. Greek Golden Visa (Residency by Investment)

The Greek Golden Visa grants a renewable residence permit to non-EU nationals who make a qualifying investment in Greece, most commonly through real estate.

  • Investment thresholds: €250,000 – €800,000
  • Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area
  • No minimum stay requirement for renewal
  • Family members included
  • Long-term pathway to citizenship through residence

 

The Golden Visa does not grant immediate citizenship.

3. Greece Retirement Visa (Financially Independent Person)

This residence permit allows non-EU nationals to live in Greece without engaging in employment, provided they have stable income from abroad.

Key Requirements

  • Minimum monthly income of approximately €2,000
  • Additional income for dependents
  • Private health insurance valid in Greece
  • Clean criminal record

Additional Greek Visa & Residence Options

  • Student Visa: For non-EU students enrolled in Greek institutions
  • Work Visa: Employer-sponsored residence and employment permit
  • Family Reunification: For immediate family members of residents or citizens

The 7-Year Rule: Pathway to Greek Citizenship

Foreign nationals who legally and continuously reside in Greece for seven years may become eligible to apply for Greek citizenship through naturalization.

  • Continuous legal residence
  • Greek language certification
  • Successful citizenship examinations
  • Demonstrated social and economic integration

The New 3-Year Residence Framework

Recent legal developments introduced scenarios where enhanced residence rights may be assessed after three years of lawful stay for certain categories of non-EU nationals.

This framework does not grant automatic citizenship.

Selecting the correct Greek visa or residence permit requires careful legal assessment. Each category carries different rights, obligations, and long-term consequences for citizenship eligibility.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of visas does Greece offer?
Schengen visas, national visas, work, study, family reunification, retirement, Golden Visa, and citizenship pathways.

What is the 7-year rule?
The primary residence requirement for Greek citizenship by naturalization.

What is the 3-year rule?
A long-term residence framework for specific categories, not citizenship.

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