A 2025 Guide for Moving to Greece

In 2024, Greece entered the list of top destinations for immigration, and according to international analysts, this trend will continue in 2025.
The country’s economy is actively recovering, infrastructure is improving, and the government is simplifying immigration procedures. With its mild Mediterranean climate, comparatively low living costs, solid legal framework, and straightforward path to residence, Greece appeals to both families and investors seeking a safe and a rewarding European base.
The renowned Golden Visa program remains a major draw: applications rose by nearly 50% last year as international interest surged.
This guide explains why Greece is increasingly chosen for long-term residence, outlines the key requirements for moving, and offers practical advice covering everything you need for an informed move.

Moving to Greece: Key Takeaways

Relocating to Greece in 2025, requires clear planning: from securing the right visa to arranging housing, finances, and education. Below is a concise checklist to help you organise every step of your move.

Documents & Legalisation

• Valid passport
• Residence permit (investor, digital nomad, family reunification, etc.)
• Apostilled birth/marriage certificates and diplomas
• Medical insurance
• Power of attorney (if working through a lawyer)
• Biometric photographs

Housing

• Select region (city, suburb, island)
• Secure and register a rental or property purchase
• Sign contract and pay all taxes and fees
• Check pet policies (if applicable)

Finance

• Obtain a Greek tax number (AFM)
• Open Greek or international bank account
• Transfer funds for property and living expenses
• Develop a tax strategy (for business in Greece)

Education & Children

• Select a school (public, private, international)
• Provide medical records and vaccination certificates
• Apostille school documents
• Explore extracurricular activities and language courses

Work & Business

• Job search (tourism, IT, remote work)
• English-language CV
• Company registration (if needed)

Language & Adaptation

• Greek language courses (online/offline)
• Translation/navigation apps
• Learn local norms, holidays, communication style
• Connect expat groups or local communities

Logistics

• Book tickets, transport, temporary accommodation
• Arrange shipping for personal belongings
• Pet documents and transport
• Local SIM card or roaming

What are the pros and cons of moving to Greece?

Relocating to Greece offers lifestyle that blends the Mediterranean ease with European opportunity. Yet, like any destination, it presents both advantages and practical considerations worth weighing before you make the move.

Advantages

Year-Round Mediterranean Climate

Summers are hot and dry, winters are short and mild. On the coast, temperatures rarely drop below +8°C, and there are over 300 sunny days per year.

We explained the climate in different Greek regions in detail in this article.

Scenic Nature

You can live in central Athens and reach the sea or the mountains within just 30 minutes. You will be surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, pine forests, and clean beaches.

Endless Opportunities for Leisure and Travel

With hundreds of islands, thermal springs, nature parks and reserves, wine routes, ancient cities, water sports, amusement parks, cafés and restaurants, there is something for everyone.

Visa-Free Travel throughout the Schengen Area

With a Greek residence permit, you don’t need Schengen visas.

Rich Culture and Historical Heritage

Ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, festivals, concerts — all part of everyday life. Even small towns have museums and theaters.
We listed the most famous Greek landmarks in this article.

Mediterranean Lifestyle

Locals value personal time, know how to relax, and don’t turn life into constant stress. The pace is calmer and more laid back, even in big cities.

Friendly Locals and Large Expat Communities

Greeks are open, social people who know how to enjoy life. They value family, religion, celebrations, and are always ready to help.

Quality Education and Healthcare

Public schools are free; private and international schools start from €2,000 per year. Higher education is free except for a symbolic semester fee. With a residence permit, medical care in public clinics is free; insurance allows you to choose private clinics.

You can find our comprehensive guides to Greece’s education system. From kindergartens and schools to top universities.

Favourable Conditions for Business

You can open a company in a week without complications. Taxes are moderate, with benefits for IT, tourism, and agriculture. Thanks to its location, Greece is convenient for doing business with the EU and Middle East.

High Quality of Life with Relatively Low Costs

Greece ranks 27th globally in quality of life, higher than many more expensive European countries. A family of four spends around €2,770 per month excluding rent which is less than in Italy or the UK. At the same time, the country has strong infrastructure, safe streets, and political stability.

After 7 years of residency and passing a language, culture, and law exam, you can apply for citizenship. A Greek passport allows visa-free travel to 180+ countries and the right to live, work, and do business in any EU member state.

Common Downsides

The most frequent complaints are bureaucracy and the language barrier. Paperwork may take longer than expected, especially if you don’t speak Greek. Many processes still require physical visits and printed documents.

How Processes are Improving in Greece

In 2025, the Greek economy continues to grow steadily; the real estate market is expanding, especially in tourist regions. New residential complexes are being built, older properties are being renovated, and demand for rentals and purchases remains high.

The country is rapidly digitalising: more public services are available online, English-language forms are appearing, and processing times are improving. Large cities now have English-speaking desks in immigration offices, and the tax system has become more transparent and convenient for foreigners.
More digital nomads are choosing Greece thanks to the climate, affordability, and strong internet. Popular cities and islands now have coworking spaces and freelancer communities.

Immigration procedures are being simplified: new residence permit types have appeared, application processing is faster, and more steps can be completed online. This applies to the Golden Visa as well as programs for remote workers, investors, and families.
We explained the pros and cons of moving to Greece in more detail here.

How to Legalise Your Stay in Greece in 2025?

A regular tourist visa does not grant the right to live in Greece long term: maximum stay is 90 days within 6 months, and it cannot be extended. If your goal is to reside in Greece permanently (whether for work, study, investment or spending most of the year in the country), you must obtain a residence permit (residence card).

How to Get a Greek Residence Permit

In 2025, Greece offers several legal grounds for obtaining residency. They differ in duration, requirements, rights, and citizenship prospects.

Work Residence Permit

Issued on the basis of an employment contract with a Greek company.

Provides the right to live in Greece and work legally.

Applicants must demonstrate relevant qualifications, skills, or work experience in their field.

Student Residence Permit

Granted upon enrollment in a Greek university or higher education institution.

Allows legal residence and limited part-time work: up to 20 hours per week.

You must provide proof of admission and sufficient financial means to cover living expenses.

Family Reunification

Available if a close family member has Greek citizenship or has legally resided in Greece for at least two years.

Applies to spouses, children, and parents.

Work rights depend on the status and permit of the primary resident.

Marriage to a Greek Citizen

A legally registered marriage allows the foreign spouse to obtain residency with full work rights.

This is one of the fastest pathways to Greek citizenship. In some cases, the required period may be reduced from seven years to three.

Business Immigration

Residency can be obtained by registering a company, investing in a local business, or creating new jobs.

Requirements typically include establishing a legal entity, presenting a business plan, and proving the investment amount.

Financially Independent Persons (FIP)

Designed for applicants who do not work in Greece but have stable passive income from abroad — such as pensions, dividends, interest, or royalties.

Minimum monthly income requirement starts from €2,000.

Health insurance and secured housing are mandatory.

Digital Nomads

Ideal for remote workers employed by foreign companies or self-employed professionals working with international clients.

Minimum monthly income: €3,500.

Applicants must confirm employment, health insurance, and accommodation.

This permit does not allow official employment with Greek companies or commercial activity inside Greece.

Humanitarian Grounds

Covers cases of asylum, international protection, and other special circumstances.

Requirements vary depending on the situation.

Provides legal residence and access to employment.

Greek Residence Permit by Investment

The Greek Golden Visa is one of the most popular immigration programs worldwide. It offers a five-year residence peppermint, renewable indefinitely, for the investor and their entire family. Importantly, there is no minimum stay requirement in Greece to maintain the status.

Eligibility criteria include:

• Investor must be over 18
• Clean criminal record
• Non-EU/Greek citizenship

The most common route is through the property purchase, though other investment types may qualify.

The most effective route is property purchase.Find out more about investing in the Greek real estate market here.

Since 2024, Greece has introduced two investment zones with different minimum property requirements:

• High-demand regions (Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, Santorini, and islands with a population over 3,100): minimum property value of €800,000,with at least 120 m².
• Other regions: minimum property value of €400,000, with at least 120 m².

There are also ways to enter with €250,000 under two specific conditions:

1. The property has cultural/historical value and requires restoration. The investor must fully restore it at their own expense.
2. The property is being converted from commercial to residential. A developer buys a commercial building and fully reconstructs it according to legal standards. The investor receives a turnkey apartment in a modern complex.

This pathway is especially attractive for investors who want European residency without relocating immediately.

Properties can be rented long-term, yielding 6-8% annually, or used as a holiday home. For those relocating, the Golden Visa also provides access to Greece’s favourable Non-Dom tax regime. After seven years of residence and meeting other requirements, investors may qualify for Greek citizenship.

Comparison of Residence Permit Types in Greece

How to Get a Residence Permit in Greece: Step-by-Step Process

1. Choose your basis for residence
   Decide whether your application will be based on employment, study, investment, passive income, family reunification, marriage, digital nomad work, or humanitarian grounds.
2. Prepare documents
   Gather the required documents according to the type of residence permit. Requirements vary, but there is a core mandatory set.
3. Submit the application
   Applications can be submitted at a Greek consulate (if applying from abroad) or directly at the Greek migration service (if already in Greece).
4. Wait for approval
   Processing times depend on the type of permit: from 1 to 12 months. Some categories are faster (investors, digital nomads, students).
5. Receive the residence permit
   After approval, you will receive a residence card. The validity period ranges from 1 to 5 years, depending on the basis.
6. Renewal and compliance
   Monitor renewal dates, spend the required amount of time in the country if applicable, and maintain the conditions of your permit (employment, income, property ownership).

With Astons, every stage of the Greek residence process is handled professionally. Our lawyers and immigration consultants organise, verify, and communicate with authorities, guiding investors and families until the residence permit is successfully issued.

What Documents Are Needed for a Residence Permit in Greece

The exact documents depend on the type of residence permit you are applying for. However, most applications require a core set of documents:

• Completed application form
• Valid passport
• Color photographs
• Health insurance valid in Greece
• Proof of financial means
• Documents confirming the basis for residence (employment contract, university enrollment, property purchase contract, etc.)
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical certificate
• Proof of housing (rental or ownership)
• Marriage / birth certificates (if applicable)
• Receipts for government fees

Important: All documents must be translated into Greek, notarised, and apostilled before submission. Some documents may also require certification from the relevant Greek authorities.
Astons provides full support throughout this process. We ensure all documents meet Greek legal requirements, organise translations and apostilles, and guide you through submission, so your application is smooth and compliant.

Cost of Living in Greece in 2025

Greece remains one of the most affordable countries in the European Union, offering a high quality of life at a moderate budget. In 2025, expatriates can expect reasonable prices for housing, food, transportation, and daily expenses, making it an attractive destination for families, retirees, and digital nomads.

Average Monthly Expenses (Excluding Ren)t:

• Single person: ~€800
• Family of four: ~€2,750

For comparison:

• Germany: €1,000 / €3,450
• UK: €960 / €2,900
• USA: €1,030 / €4,260
• Housing Costs

Athens:

• Studio apartment: €500–€800 per month
• 3-bedroom apartment: €700–€1,500, depending on location and condition

Suburbs and Other Cities::

• Piraeus: 8-10% cheaper than central Athens
• Northern Athens (Kifisia, Marousi): higher rents for villas and family homes
• Thessaloniki: up to 20% lower rents than Athens
• Islands: rental prices peak during tourist season; off-season rentals start from €600

Utilities:

• €150–€200 per month for an apartment up to 100 m², including electricity, water, and internet.

Groceries and Daily Expenses (Approximate Prices)

• Milk: €1.5
• Latte: €3.5
• Lunch in a budget café: €10–15
• Dinner for two: €50
• Public transport ticket: €1.2
• Monthly pass: €30

Tips to save:

• Rent outside city centres
• Shop at local markets
• Use public transport
• Opt for local health insurance plan

Approximate Prices for Groceries and Services in Greece

Despite the affordability, residents enjoy excellent access to fresh food, clean beaches, cultural experiences, and modern infrastructure, making Greece a desirable destination for both short-term stays and permanent relocation.

Which Region of Greece Is Best for Living?

Choosing the right location is key to enjoying life in Greece. Each region offers unique advantages in terms of lifestyle, cost, climate, and opportunities. Below is a detailed guide to help you decide where to live.

Athens

The capital is the country’s business, cultural, and financial center. It’s convenient for business, documents, education, and remote work. Many international schools, clinics, coworking spaces, and English-language services operate here.

Pros:

• International schools and universities
• Many English-speaking professionals and services
• Rich cultural life: museums, theaters
• Good internet, transport, healthcare

Cons:

• Noise, traffic, congestion
• Higher rental prices than other regions

We covered Athens’ living costs here and listed the best suburbs for living here.

Athens’ Suburbs

A great choice for those who prefer a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to the capital’s opportunities:

• Piraeus: Major port city, 20 minutes to the center by metro. Ideal for those who want proximity to Athens without high rent or central noise. Developed infrastructure, markets, universities, sea access, and ferry connections to islands.
• Northern Athens (Kifisia, Irakleio): Prestigious residential districts with villas, gardens, and private schools. Popular among diplomats, entrepreneurs, and families.
• Athens Riviera (Glyfada, Voula, Vouliagmeni): Coastal areas with beaches, marinas, promenades, upscale restaurants, and prime real estate.

Advantages:

• Quieter and safer neighborhoods
• More greenery and family-friendly environment
• Moderate density
• Easy access to center

Drawbacks:

• High rental and purchase prices
• Fewer cultural events
• Northern areas far from the sea; southern areas overcrowded in tourist season

Thessaloniki

The second-largest city, located on the Thermaic Gulf in northern Greece. Dynamic but calmer than Athens, with universities, hospitals, cafés, and active cultural life. Strong growth in real estate and infrastructure. Popular with students, young professionals, and families who want an affordable European lifestyle without capital congestion.

Pros:

• Lower living costs than Athens
• Good healthcare, education, and infrastructure
• Active student and expat community
• Fewer tourists, calmer rhythm

Cons:

• Parking and traffic issues in the historic center
• Colder winters and occasional snowfall
• Distance from Athens

Greek Islands

The islands provide a unique lifestyle with beautiful landscapes, sea access, and prime real estate.

• Popular islands: Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes provide high rental demand, prime living, and strong infrastructure.
• Family-friendly islands: Crete, largest, affordable real estate, strong local community.
• Emerging islands: Ikaria, eco-tourism, sustainable development, investment potential.

Considerations:

• Prices fluctuate seasonally
• Some islands are more tourist-focused than residential
• Infrastructure varies; larger islands are better suited for families and long-term residents.

How to Adapt to Life in Greece: Practical Tips for Expats

Moving abroad is a full lifestyle adjustment. These practical tips will help you adapt smoothly.

Healthcare: Public vs. Private Insurance

With a residence permit, you get access to the state healthcare system (EOPYY). It covers basic services, but waiting times and service levels vary.

Most expats opt for private insurance for faster access to specialists and private clinics. Prices start from €40 per month, depending on age and coverage.

Work: English-Speaking Jobs

Greece offers opportunities in several sectors for English speakers, including:

• Tourism and hospitality
• IT and tech
• Marketing and communications
• Education and tutoring
• Remote international projects

Popular job platforms: LinkedIn, Workable, Kariera.gr,and local expat groups.

Education: International Schools

International schools operate in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete, offering English, French, and German programs.

• Cost: €2,000–€10,000 per year depending on grade and format.
• State schools are free, but in Greek-language only.
• For young children, many choose bilingual private schools to ease adaptation.

Cultural Adjustment: Language & Social Norms

Greeks are social, expressive, and value personal connections. Life moves at a more relaxed pace than in northern Europe.

• English is common in big cities, but basic Greek is essential in smaller towns.
• Simple phrases like “kaliméra” (good morning) and “efharistó” (thank you) make life easier.
• Respect local customs, holidays, and social etiquette to integrate smoothly.

Moving with Family & Pets

• Children: Apostilled birth certificates and medical records.
• Pets: Microchip, vaccinations, vet passport, EU health form.

Greece is pet-friendly, with clinics, pet stores, and rental allowing animals. Always confirm with landlords about pet policies.

Taxes and Benefits in Greece

Greece has a transparent tax system with incentives for new residents and investors.

Tax Residency:

• Individuals spending 183+ days per year in Greece are considered tax residents.
• Residents pay tax on worldwide income.
• Non-residents are taxed only on income earned in Greece.

Main Taxes:

• Personal income tax: 9%–44% (progressive)
• Rental Income Tax: 15%–45%
• Solidarity Contribution: 2.2%–10%
• Annual Property Tax (ENFIA): €2–€13 per m²
• Municipal Property Tax (TAP) — 0.025%–0.035%
• VAT: 24%, reduced rates 12% and 6% for certain goods/services

For property purchases: VAT is suspended nationwide. Instead, a 3.09% property transfer tax applies.

• Corporate Tax: 24%
• Inheritance & Gift Tax: 1%–40%, depending on family relation
• Capital Gains Tax: 1%
• Social Security Contributions: 35.16%

More details about the Greek tax system are available in our article.

Special Incentive — Non-Dom regime:

For those investing €500,000+ into the Greek economy and transferring tax residency:

• Fixed annual tax: €100,000 on foreign income
• Valid for 15 years
• Family members: €20,000 per person

International Treaties:

Greece has tax treaties to avoid double taxation with many countries, including the UK and the US.
This tax structure, combined with residency programs, makes Greece attractive for investors, entrepreneurs, and expats seeking long-term financial planning.

Conclusion

Greece can be both a holiday destination and a place to call home. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, crystal-clear seas even in October, and a rich historical and cultural backdrop, life here is both vibrant and relaxing. Whether enjoying a morning coffee in a bustling square, shopping at local markets, or chatting with welcoming neighbors, it’s easy to feel part of the community.
Many visitors who come for a short stay return as residents, drawn by the lifestyle, climate, and opportunities Greece offers.

For those considering relocation or investment, Astons provides expert guidance at every step of the process. From selecting the right property to handling legal paperwork and residence permits, our team ensures a smooth, stress-free experience. Contact our specialists today for a free consultation, and we’ll help you find the best solution tailored to your goals and make your move to Greece seamless.