Move from the US to Greece
Learn all you need to know about getting a Visa for Greece
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Move from the US to Greece
What is the process?
If you’re planning to move from the U.S. to Greece, the process starts with choosing the right type of visa. Here are the main options available for non-EU citizens like Americans:
1. Choose the Right Visa
The visa you need depends on your reason for moving to Greece:
- Financially Independent Person Visa (FIP Visa) – Ideal for retirees or anyone with passive income (like rental income, dividends, or pensions). This is one of the most popular options for Americans.
- Work Visa – For those with a Greek employer sponsoring their stay.
- Student Visa – For students enrolling in a Greek educational institution.
- Digital Nomad Visa – Designed for remote workers employed by companies outside Greece.
- Golden Visa – For individuals investing at least €250,000 in Greek real estate (this will rise to €400,000 in some areas in 2025).
2. Gather Required Documents
Each visa type has its own list of requirements, but common documents include:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity)
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, pension letters, investment income, etc.)
- Comprehensive health insurance valid in Greece
- FBI background check (with Apostille)
- Medical certificate confirming good health
- Proof of accommodation in Greece (rental contract, property purchase, or letter from a host)
For work or student visas, you’ll also need a contract from your employer or university acceptance letter.
3. Apply at the Greek Consulate
You’ll apply for your visa at the Greek Consulate that serves the state where you live in the U.S. This typically requires an appointment, and processing times can vary (usually 4-8 weeks).
4. Travel to Greece
Once your visa is approved and stamped into your passport, you can officially move to Greece.
5. Apply for a Residence Permit
After arrival, you must apply for a residence permit within your first 30 to 90 days. This is done at the local Aliens and Immigration Department (part of the Decentralized Administration in Greece). This residence permit is what actually allows you to stay long-term.
6. Register for Your AFM (Tax Number) and AMKA (Social Security Number)
To live in Greece, you’ll need:
- AFM – Your Greek tax number, which is needed for renting, banking, and signing contracts.
- AMKA – If you plan to work or need access to Greece’s public healthcare system, you’ll need a social security number (AMKA).
7. Set Up Practicalities (Housing, Banking, Healthcare)
- Open a Greek bank account
- Enroll in private health insurance (if required by your visa)
- Secure long-term housing if you haven’t already
8. Understand Tax and Residency Rules
If you live in Greece for more than 183 days per year, you become tax resident in Greece, meaning you’ll need to declare worldwide income. It’s smart to get tax advice, especially if you have income or property in the U.S.
Optional: Work with a Lawyer or Immigration Advisor
Greek bureaucracy can be slow and complex, especially with documents in Greek. Many expats hire a lawyer to help with the residence permit, tax number, and other registrations. At Lexidy, our team is specialist in helping Americans moving to Greece, contact us for a free consultation of your case!
Type of Greek visas
1. Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)
This is for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is used for tourism, business trips, or short family visits. This visa does not allow you to move to Greece long-term.
2. Long-Stay National Visa (Type D)
This is the visa you need if you plan to stay in Greece for more than 90 days. It allows you to enter the country and apply for a residence permit once you arrive. There are several categories under this visa, depending on your reason for moving to Greece:
Financially Independent Person Visa: Designed for retirees or anyone who can support themselves with passive income from outside Greece. You need to show proof of sufficient funds (at least €2,000 per month), private health insurance, and proof of accommodation. You are not allowed to work in Greece with this visa.
Digital Nomad Visa: This is for remote workers employed by companies outside Greece. You need to show proof of remote work, along with a minimum monthly income (currently €3,500), health insurance, and a place to stay in Greece.
Work Visa: This visa is for people with a job offer from a Greek company. Your employer in Greece will need to provide documents confirming your employment.
Student Visa: For students enrolling at a Greek university or educational institution. You need to show your letter of acceptance, proof of funds to cover your stay, and health insurance.
Golden Visa: This visa is for individuals investing in real estate in Greece. The minimum investment is currently €250,000, but in 2025, this will increase to €400,000 in certain areas. This visa offers residency for you and your family.
Family Reunification Visa: If you have a family member who is already a legal resident in Greece, you may qualify for this visa. You will need to prove your relationship and show that your family member can support you financially.
Spouse or Partner Visa: If you are married to or in a civil partnership with a Greek citizen, you can apply for this visa. You will need to show your marriage or partnership certificate and provide proof of your relationship.
Researcher or Scientific Visa: This applies to researchers or academics invited to work on projects in Greece. You will need an official invitation from a Greek research institution.
3. Special Purpose Visas
Greece also offers visas for specific situations, such as:
- Religious Workers Visa: For clergy or religious professionals invited to work with religious institutions in Greece.
- Volunteer Visa: For individuals participating in official volunteer programs recognized by the Greek government.
- Athlete or Coach Visa: For professional athletes and coaches working with Greek sports teams.
- Cultural or Artistic Visa: For artists, filmmakers, or performers who have been contracted to work on a cultural project in Greece.
Important Clarification
Unlike some countries, Greece does not offer a simple “long-stay visitor visa” for people who just want to live in Greece without working, studying, or investing. For these cases, the Financially Independent Person Visa is the best fit — especially for retirees or those with passive income.
What documents do you need?
The exact documents you need to move to Greece depend on the type of visa you apply for, but here’s a solid list of the most common documents required for long-stay visas (Type D) — which is what you need if you’re planning to live in Greece for more than 90 days.
Common Documents Required for a Greek Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
Visa Application Form
Fully completed and signed, provided by the Greek Consulate.Valid Passport
Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Greece and have at least two blank pages.Recent Passport-Sized Photos
Usually two, meeting Schengen visa photo requirements.Proof of Accommodation in Greece
This could be a rental agreement, a property purchase contract, a letter of invitation if you’re staying with family or friends, or a hotel reservation.Proof of Sufficient Funds
Depending on the visa type, you need to show proof that you can support yourself financially in Greece. This can include:- Bank statements (recent 6 months)
- Pension documents
- Investment income proof
- Employment contract (if applying for a work visa)
- Proof of remote work income (for digital nomads)
Comprehensive Health Insurance
Private health insurance covering your stay in Greece, including hospitalization and repatriation if needed.Criminal Record Certificate
An official FBI background check (or a state-level check), with Apostille to certify its authenticity.Medical Certificate
A certificate from your doctor stating that you are in good health and free of contagious diseases. Some consulates require this to be issued within 3 months of applying.Cover Letter or Motivation Letter
Explaining why you want to move to Greece, your plans, and how you will support yourself.Visa Fee Payment Receipt
The fee amount depends on the type of visa (usually around €180-€200 for most long-stay visas).
Additional Documents for Specific Visas
- Work Visa: Job offer/contract from your Greek employer and proof that the job was authorized for a non-EU citizen.
- Student Visa: Enrollment letter from the Greek university and proof you can cover tuition and living costs.
- Digital Nomad Visa: Proof of remote employment (contract with a non-Greek company), proof of income (currently €3,500 per month), and tax residency declaration confirming you’ll remain a tax resident outside Greece.
- Golden Visa: Property purchase agreement showing you invested at least €250,000 (or €400,000 in certain areas starting in 2025).
- Family Reunification Visa: Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate) and proof the sponsoring family member has legal residence in Greece.
Important Note
All foreign documents (like your criminal record, marriage certificate, etc.) must be officially translated into Greek and apostilled (if they were issued in the U.S.). In some cases, the Greek consulate itself can handle the translation for you.
What is the cost of living in Greece?
Cost of Living in Greece for Americans
The cost of living in Greece is significantly lower than in the United States, particularly when compared to major U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco. Even in Athens, Greece’s capital and most expensive city, prices for rent, dining, and healthcare are far below those in the U.S. Below is a breakdown of typical expenses to help American readers understand the financial side of relocating to Greece.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is one of the most affordable aspects of life in Greece, especially outside of tourist-heavy islands or central Athens.
- Athens (city center): €500 – €800 ($540 – $870) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Thessaloniki and other large cities: €400 – €600 ($430 – $650) per month.
- Smaller towns and islands: €300 – €500 ($325 – $540) per month.
If you plan to buy property, Greece offers some of the lowest prices in southern Europe. In Athens, prices average around €2,500 – €3,500 ($2,700 – $3,800) per square meter, while in smaller towns or rural areas, prices can drop to under €1,500 ($1,600) per square meter.
2. Utilities & Internet
Utilities are generally affordable, although heating and cooling costs can fluctuate depending on the region.
- Electricity, water, heating, and garbage collection: €100 – €150 ($110 – $165) per month for a small apartment.
- High-speed internet and mobile phone plan: €25 – €45 ($27 – $50) per month.
3. Groceries & Dining Out
Greece offers excellent access to fresh, local produce, olive oil, seafood, and cheese at very affordable prices. Shopping at local markets helps keep costs low.
- Monthly groceries for one person: €200 – €300 ($220 – $325).
- Loaf of fresh bread: €1 ($1.10).
- Bottle of local wine: €5 – €8 ($5.40 – $8.70).
- Milk (1 liter): €1.50 ($1.60).
- Local feta cheese (per kilo): €10 – €12 ($11 – $13).
Dining out is also very affordable compared to the U.S.
- Meal at an inexpensive taverna: €10 – €15 ($11 – $16).
- Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €40 – €60 ($43 – $65).
- Coffee at a café: €3 ($3.20).
4. Transportation Costs
Public transportation in Greece is affordable and widely used, especially in Athens.
- Monthly public transport pass in Athens: €30 ($33).
- One-way metro or bus ticket: €1.20 ($1.30).
- Gasoline (per liter): €1.90 ($7.25 per gallon).
5. Healthcare Costs
Greece offers much cheaper healthcare than the U.S., both for private and public options. Expats can access public healthcare once they obtain residency and contribute to the system, but many opt for private insurance.
- Private health insurance: €50 – €200 ($55 – $220) per month.
- Doctor visit (without insurance): €50 – €80 ($55 – $90).
6. Education Costs
For families moving to Greece, public schools are free, and there are affordable university options. However, international schools come at a cost.
- Public schools: Free.
- Private or international schools: €6,000 – €15,000 ($6,500 – $16,000) per year.
- University tuition for non-EU students: Around €1,500 – €4,000 ($1,600 – $4,300) per year.
7. Entertainment & Lifestyle
- Gym membership: €30 – €50 ($33 – $55) per month.
- Movie ticket: €8 – €10 ($9 – $11).
- Museum entry: €5 – €12 ($5.40 – $13), with many free days for residents and students.
8. Taxes & Cost of Living Adjustments
Greece’s taxes are relatively high compared to the U.S., especially for residents with Greek-sourced income. However, tax residents benefit from affordable public healthcare, lower education costs, and a lower overall cost of living.
- VAT (sales tax): 24% on most goods and services (already included in prices).
- Property tax: Significantly lower than U.S. property taxes.
- Double taxation: The U.S.-Greece tax treaty helps avoid double taxation for American expats, but professional tax advice is strongly recommended.
Bottom Line: Is Greece More Affordable Than the U.S.?
- Living in Athens is much cheaper than living in New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles — especially when it comes to housing, healthcare, dining out, and transportation.
- Life in smaller Greek towns or islands is even more affordable, often costing less than half of what you’d spend living in a mid-sized U.S. city.
- Day-to-day expenses like groceries, coffee, and eating out are significantly cheaper, while healthcare offers particularly good value compared to the extremely high costs in the U.S.
What taxes will you pay?
What Taxes Do Americans Pay When Moving to Greece?
If you’re an American thinking about moving to Greece, understanding the tax situation is important. Once you live in Greece for more than 183 days in a year, Greece will consider you a tax resident. This means you’ll need to report and potentially pay tax on your worldwide income, not just money earned in Greece.
Here’s a breakdown of the key taxes you should know about:
1. Income Tax in Greece
As a tax resident, Greece taxes your income from all sources, whether it comes from the U.S. or elsewhere. That includes your salary, pension, rental income, dividends, or freelance work.
Greece’s income tax rates for 2025 are:
- Income up to €10,000 – taxed at 9%
- Income from €10,001 to €20,000 – taxed at 22%
- Income from €20,001 to €30,000 – taxed at 28%
- Income from €30,001 to €40,000 – taxed at 36%
- Income over €40,000 – taxed at 44%
2. Taxes on U.S. Income (like pensions or investments)
Even if your income comes from the U.S., Greece will still want you to report it if you are a tax resident. However, the U.S. and Greece have a tax treaty, which helps avoid double taxation. This means if you’ve already paid tax on income in the U.S., you can often offset that against your Greek tax bill.
3. Special Tax Program for Foreign Retirees
If you’re retiring in Greece and you move your tax residency there, you could apply for a special flat tax rate of 7% on all your foreign income — including your U.S. pension, Social Security payments, investment income, or rental income from U.S. property. This reduced tax rate applies for up to 15 years, and it’s a popular option for Americans retiring in Greece.
4. Property Tax
If you decide to buy property in Greece, you’ll pay annual property tax called ENFIA. The cost depends on the size, location, and value of the property. For most homes, this tax works out to around €2 to €13 per square meter per year.
5. Capital Gains Tax
If you sell property in Greece, you will pay 15% capital gains tax on any profit. If you sell stocks or investments, capital gains tax may also apply, depending on your tax residency status.
6. Social Security Contributions
If you plan to work in Greece, whether for a Greek company or as a freelancer, you’ll need to pay into Greece’s social security system (called EFKA). Contributions are around 20% to 25% of your earnings, depending on your employment type. This is required for residents who work, but does not apply to passive income like pensions.
7. VAT (Sales Tax)
When you buy goods and services in Greece, VAT (value-added tax) is already included in the price you pay.
- Standard VAT: 24%
- Reduced VAT for food, medicine, and books: 13%
- Super-reduced VAT for certain essential goods: 6%
8. Inheritance Tax
If you inherit property or assets in Greece, inheritance tax applies. The rate depends on your relationship with the deceased. For close family, the rate is low (1% to 10%), while for more distant relatives or unrelated individuals, the tax can be much higher (up to 40%).
9. U.S. Tax Obligations (Don’t Forget!)
Even after you move to Greece, you still need to file a U.S. tax return every year — this applies to all Americans living abroad. However, tools like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and Foreign Tax Credit can help reduce or eliminate double taxation. It’s smart to work with a tax advisor who understands both U.S. and Greek tax systems.
Bottom Line
If you’re an American moving to Greece, your taxes will depend on:
- Whether you become a tax resident in Greece (over 183 days per year).
- Whether you work in Greece, retire, or just live off passive income.
- Whether you qualify for the 7% retiree flat tax.
- Whether you buy property or plan to sell any assets.
It’s definitely manageable, but planning ahead — and getting professional tax advice — will save you money and headaches down the road.
Ready to navigate the complexities of moving from the US to Greece? Contact our partners, experienced immigration lawyers, to receive personalized guidance, expert advice, and professional assistance with your visa application. Let us help make your extended stay in Greece a seamless and successful experience. Reach out to us now to start the process!
How can a lawyer help me with moving to Greece?
A lawyer can help you by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the application process. Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:
Eligibility assessment: A lawyer will evaluate your specific situation, whether it’s for work, study, retirement, or family reunification, to ensure you meet the criteria for the artist visa.
Document preparation: They can help you compile the necessary paperwork, which typically includes:
- Proof of financial means to support your stay.
- Proof of accommodation in France (lease or property ownership).
- Health insurance valid in Greece.
- A criminal background check.
- Specific documents depending on the purpose of the visa (employment contract, enrollment in a Greek institution, etc.).
Application submission: A lawyer will guide you through the submission process, ensuring that your application is properly filed with the Greek consulate in your country of residence or online. They can help avoid common mistakes that could lead to delays or rejections.
Navigating Greek bureaucracy: The visa process can involve complex and time-consuming administrative procedures. A lawyer can help you efficiently navigate these systems, making sure everything is in order for the visa decision.
Follow-up on the visa process: Lawyers can track the status of your visa application and ensure any additional documentation or clarifications requested by the consulate are promptly provided.
Residency permit: Once you arrive in Greece, a lawyer can help with the next step: applying for your carte de séjour (residency permit). They will assist with the necessary appointments and paperwork to transition smoothly to residency.
Appeals and troubleshooting: If your artist visa is denied, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and address any issues in your application that may have led to the rejection.
If you’d like to explore how we can support you with the Greek visa process, feel free to book a meeting with us.
Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in Greece a reality.
Life
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Quality Life for You and Your Family
Why Greece?
Obtaining a visa in Greece offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it opens an opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to Greek’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, you will immerse in the warmth of French hospitality, savour its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
Cultural immersion
Experience the rich Greek culture.
Location
Explore Europe without visa restrictions.
Stable economy
Greece has a stable and growing economy
Delicious cuisine
Taste world-renowned Greek food and wine.
Affordable living
Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.
Healthcare access
Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
Skilled workforce
Greece has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce.
Travel Opportunities
Explore diverse regions within Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Americans need a visa to move to Greece?
Yes, if you want to stay longer than 90 days, you will need a long-stay visa (Type D) before moving. This allows you to apply for a residence permit once you arrive in Greece.
What types of visas are available for Americans moving to Greece?
Popular options include the Financially Independent Person visa (for retirees or those with passive income), the Digital Nomad visa (for remote workers), the Work visa (if you have a Greek employer), the Student visa (if you are enrolling in a university), and the Golden Visa (for property investors).
Can I move to Greece if I’m retired?
Yes! Greece offers a Financially Independent Person visa for retirees who can show they have enough passive income to support themselves. Greece also has a special flat tax rate for foreign retirees who move their tax residency to Greece.
How much income do I need to qualify for a visa?
It depends on the visa type. For example, retirees and financially independent people need to show stable passive income, while remote workers applying for the Digital Nomad visa need to show income from non-Greek employers.
How do I apply for a visa to live in Greece?
You apply at the Greek Consulate that serves your area in the U.S. You will need to submit various documents, including proof of income, health insurance, a background check, and more.
Can I work in Greece as an American?
You can work in Greece if you have a Work visa sponsored by a Greek employer. If you work remotely for non-Greek companies, you can apply for the Digital Nomad visa instead.
Do I have to pay taxes in Greece?
If you live in Greece for more than 183 days in a year, you become a Greek tax resident and must report your worldwide income to Greece. However, there is a tax treaty between Greece and the U.S. to avoid double taxation.
Is healthcare free in Greece for expats?
Public healthcare is not free for expats unless you work and pay into the social security system. Most Americans moving to Greece choose private health insurance, which is affordable compared to U.S. prices.
Can I buy property in Greece as an American?
Yes, Americans can buy property in Greece without restrictions. Buying property worth a certain amount can also make you eligible for the Golden Visa, which offers residency for you and your family.
Do I need to speak Greek to live there?
It’s possible to get by with English in big cities and tourist areas, but learning some Greek will make life much easier, especially when dealing with paperwork, government offices, or living in smaller towns.
Our Team
For us, Lexidy is a way of life and what excites us the most is to be able to deliver the happiness and satisfaction of a successful immigration process. We want to help you achieve your goals and dreams, whether it’s residence in Greece or simply an investment.
Visit us: Patriarchou Ioakeim 25 Street, Kolonaki, Athens, 10675
Call us: +30 21 1199 5654
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