How to Retire in Greece as a Non-EU Citizen (2025 Guide)

Have you been dreaming of retiring in Greece as a non-EU citizen? Not only is Greece famous for its blue coastlines and laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, but this country continues to attract retirees from around the world looking to enjoy their golden years in a scenic, affordable, and culturally rich environment.

For non-EU citizens, retiring in Greece isn’t as simple as packing your bags and jumping on a plane. You’ll need a legal pathway to stay long-term, and for many retirees, that means applying for the Financially Independent Person (FIP) visa, Greece’s main retirement-friendly residence permit.

In this blog, our trusted immigration experts will walk you through everything you need to know: from income requirements and housing rules to how the FIP visa works and how to avoid common pitfalls in the application process.

Why Retire in Greece?

Greece offers a unique mixture of lifestyle perks that make it one of Europe’s top retirement destinations. The first thing that springs to mind is the warm Mediterranean climate, featuring long summers and gentle winters. Whether you choose to settle on an island or in a charming inland town, the pace of life is slower, the food is fresh, and the cost of living is generally lower than in many Western countries.

Additionally, safety and healthcare are strong selling points. Greece boasts a relatively low crime rate and access to both public and private healthcare options, something retirees especially value.

What’s more, Greece is home to a growing community of international retirees and expats, making integration smoother. As a member of the European Union, Greece offers retirees the opportunity for long-term travel throughout the EU, with the added benefit of potentially applying for permanent residency or citizenship down the line.

What is the FIP Visa and who is it for?

So you’re probably wondering, “What is the FIP Visa and how can I get it?”. The Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa is Greece’s solution for non-EU citizens who want to live here long-term without working. This visa is designed for individuals who can support themselves through stable passive income sources, without the need to find employment in Greece. Passive income options include pensions, investments, or savings.

The FIP visa is an ideal fit for retirees from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and other non-EU countries. You can legally reside in Greece while taking full advantage of everything this beautiful country has to offer, without the hassle of running a business or securing employment.

If you’re financially independent and looking to retire abroad, the FIP visa offers a clear, straightforward path to making Greece your permanent home.

Greece Retirement Visa Requirements

To qualify for the FIP visa and retire in Greece, there are several legal and financial requirements you must meet first. The government wants to ensure you can support yourself without burdening the state, so proof of income and documentation are key.

Minimum Income Requirement

It is essential that you can prove a stable monthly passive income of at least €3,500/month. This can come from pensions, dividends, rental income, or other passive sources. If you’re bringing a spouse, that threshold rises by 20% (€4,200 total), and an additional 15% per dependent child. Alternatively, showing €126,000 in savings satisfies this requirement.

Required Documentation Includes

• Private health insurance with full coverage in Greece.
• Medical Certificate to prove good health.
• Clean criminal record certificate from your country of residence.
• Bank statements or pension documents showing regular passive income or savings.

Bringing Family Members

Spouses and dependents can apply as part of your FIP visa application. However, you’ll need to meet the higher income thresholds mentioned above and provide documentation for each family member. This may include proof of relationship and insurance.

Meeting these requirements upfront is essential. Even small mistakes or missing documents can lead to delays or even outright rejection. Curious to learn more? Check out our Greece Retirement Visa service page for more information and answers to your frequently asked questions.

How to Retire in Greece as a Non-EU Citizen: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the Financially Independent Person (FIP) visa involves a clear but document-heavy process. Each step must be completed with precision, especially when dealing with translations, apostilles, and financial proof.

1. Gather Your Documents

Collect all required documentation. This includes proof of income, accommodation, health insurance, criminal background check, and a valid passport. Documents must be translated into Greek and often legalized with an apostille.

2. Apply at the Greek Consulate

Submit your visa application at the Greek consulate in your country of residence.

3. Wait for Visa Approval

Visa processing typically takes 10 working days, though timelines may vary depending on the consulate and the time of year.

4. Enter Greece and Apply for the Residence Permit

Once your visa is approved, the visa is issued for 12 months. Within this period, you will need to enter Greece and proceed with the submission of an application for the residence permit, which is valid for three years.

5. Receive Your Residence Permit

After submission and the provision of fingerprints, the initial FIP residence permit is usually issued within 6-8 months. This is valid for 3 years and renewable as long as you continue to meet the income and residency criteria.

Important Note: You’ll need to remain in Greece for at least 183 days per year to maintain your resident status.

Each stage must be handled with care to avoid rejection or delays. This is where legal guidance can make a major difference. Contact us through the form below for a free first consultation.

Retiring in Greece from the US or UK: What You Should Know

Retiring abroad comes with unique considerations, especially if you’re coming from the US or the UK. While Greece is welcoming to foreign retirees, your country of origin impacts how you navigate the process.

Post-Brexit Realities for UK Citizens

Since Brexit, UK nationals are treated as non-EU citizens. Therefore, if you are a UK citizen, you can no longer freely move or retire to Greece without a visa. The FIP visa offers a legal pathway, but you must still meet the same financial and documentation standards as other non-EU nationals. UK pension income, investment returns, rental earnings, and savings are all valid forms of proof, as long as they meet the minimum threshold.

We Work with Americans and Brits Every Day

At Lexidy, we’ve helped countless retirees from both the U.S. and U.K. successfully relocate to Greece. we’re familiar with the nuances and ready to guide you every step of the way.

Life in Greece as a Retiree

Once your paperwork is in order and your application has been accepted, it’s time to enjoy the very best of what Greece has to offer, starting with a relaxed lifestyle and access to excellent healthcare and housing options.

Healthcare in Greece

Greece offers a robust public healthcare system alongside high-quality private options. As a retiree on the FIP visa, you’ll be required to maintain private health insurance. Many expats choose to supplement with private plans long-term due to shorter wait times and English-speaking doctors.

Property Options: Renting vs. Buying

Whether you prefer a seaside apartment or a countryside villa, Greece has attractive property options. Renting is straightforward and affordable in many parts of the country, while buying is a popular route for retirees looking to settle long-term. It’s worth working with a local lawyer when purchasing property to ensure a clear title and zoning compliance.

Lifestyle, Integration, and Cost of Living

Retirees in Greece enjoy a warm climate, vibrant community life, and a lower cost of living than many other EU destinations. Fresh local produce, rich cultural traditions, and an emphasis on leisure create an ideal retirement rhythm.

In popular areas like Crete, the Peloponnese, or Thessaloniki, you’ll find growing expat networks and opportunities to integrate into local life through language learning, volunteering, or community events. Check out our Top 9 Places in Greece for Retirees.

Why Work with a Lawyer?

Retiring abroad is exciting, but navigating the legal landscape can quickly become overwhelming without the right guidance. From visa applications to tax compliance, the process is filled with administrative nuances and legal pitfalls that catch many retirees off guard.

Common Pain Points Retirees Face

Many applicants struggle with unclear documentation standards, incorrectly formatted financial proofs, or delays due to missing translations or apostilles.

Others face issues securing compliant health insurance or run into unexpected residency tax consequences once they’ve settled in Greece. Not only can these mistakes delay your move, but they can even result in rejections or legal complications down the line.

Legal Support from Start to Finish

Working with a legal team ensures every step, from gathering compliant documents to submitting your application at the consulate, is done correctly and efficiently. A lawyer can structure your application around your specific financial situation, flag potential red flags in advance, and represent you before local authorities if needed.

Lexidy’s Experience with Retirees in Greece

At Lexidy, we’ve helped retirees from the US, UK, Canada, and Australia successfully relocate to Greece through the FIP visa. Our multilingual legal team understands the unique needs of non-EU retirees and provides full support, from initial consultation through residency and even citizenship.

If you’re serious about retiring in Greece, working with a lawyer isn’t just helpful, it’s a smart investment in peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Retire in Greece as a Non-EU Citizen

Can I work on the FIP visa?

No, the Financially Independent Person (FIP) visa does not allow you to work or run a business in Greece. It’s designed for individuals with enough passive income or savings.

Do I need to speak Greek?

No, Greek language skills are not required for the visa, but learning the basics can help with integration and daily life.

How long does the process take?

The process typically takes 2–3 months from application to approval, depending on the consulate workload and document readiness.

Can I retire in Greece from the US or the UK?

Yes, citizens of both the US and the UK regularly retire in Greece using the FIP visa. The process is similar for both nationalities.

Can I bring family?

Yes, you can bring a spouse and dependent children, but you’ll need to prove additional passive income for each family member.

Ready to Make Greece Your Home?

Retiring in Greece as a non-EU citizen is more than a dream—it’s an achievable goal with the right planning and support. Whether you’re drawn by the warm climate, slower pace of life, or access to the wider EU, the Financially Independent Person (FIP) visa offers a clear path for non-EU retirees to settle down legally and securely.

The next step? Make sure your application is set up for success. Our legal team has helped retirees from the US, UK, and beyond start their new chapter in Greece with confidence.

Whether you’re ready to move forward or just exploring your options, you’ll find everything you need on our Greece Retirement Visa service page — or simply fill out the form below to speak with our team.