Greek Digital Nomad Visa (Ultimate Guide 2025)
- Last Update Feb. 18, 2025
Living in Greece while working remotely isn’t just a dream—it’s a real, legal option.
With the Greek Digital Nomad Visa, non-EU professionals can live in Greece while working for an employer or clients outside the country.
Whether you’re a remote employee, a freelancer, or a business owner, this visa gives you the right to stay in Greece without needing a work permit.
But while the idea sounds simple, the reality is that not everyone qualifies.
Greece has strict requirements on who can apply, how much you need to earn, and what kind of work counts.
Before you start planning your move, it’s important to understand exactly what the visa allows—and what it doesn’t.
Unlike a traditional residence permit, the Greek Digital Nomad Visa is designed for people who already have a stable remote income.
You can’t use it to look for work in Greece or to start a local business.
Instead, it’s a way to legally live in Greece while keeping your current remote job or clients.
So, who actually qualifies?
Let’s break it down.
Who Can Apply? The Eligibility Criteria
The Greek Digital Nomad Visa isn’t open to everyone.
Do You Qualify for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa?
Check the key requirements to see if you're eligible:
- ✔ Non-EU/EEA Citizen
- ✔ Earn at least €3,500/month after tax
- ✔ Work remotely for a company or clients outside Greece
- ✔ Have valid private health insurance
- ✔ Can provide proof of income (bank statements, contracts, etc.)
To qualify, you need to meet three key requirements: nationality, employment type, and financial stability.
First, this visa is only available to non-EU and non-EEA citizens.
If you’re from the European Union, you don’t need this visa because you already have the right to live and work in Greece without restrictions.
Second, you must prove that you work remotely for a company or clients based outside of Greece.
That means you can qualify if you’re a remote employee, a freelancer, or a business owner—as long as none of your income comes from Greek sources.
If you’re planning to move to Greece and look for local work later, this visa isn’t the right fit.
The third requirement is financial.
Greece sets a strict minimum income threshold to make sure applicants can support themselves without relying on local resources.
At the moment, you need to earn at least €3,500 per month after taxes to qualify.
If you’re bringing a spouse, that number increases by 20%, and if you have children, it rises by another 15% per child.
This rule ensures that only financially stable applicants can take advantage of the program.
With the right nationality, a verified remote income, and the required financial resources, you’re eligible to apply.
But getting approved isn’t just about meeting the basic criteria—it’s also about going through the application process correctly.
You Meet the Requirements—But Will You Get Approved?
Many digital nomads assume they qualify, only to have their application rejected due to errors in financial proof, incomplete documents, or misinterpretation of the rules.
We make sure your application is structured correctly from day one—so you don’t face costly delays or unexpected rejections.
Get a Free Visa AssessmentLet’s look at what that involves.
The Application Process: Step-by-Step Breakdown
Getting the Greek Digital Nomad Visa isn’t complicated, but it does require careful preparation.
A well-prepared application can mean the difference between a smooth approval and months of frustrating delays.
The process begins before you even set foot in Greece.
Greek Digital Nomad Visa: Step-by-Step Process
Follow these four key steps to complete your visa application.
Gather Documents: Passport, proof of income, health insurance, application form.
Submit Application: Apply via Greek embassy or consulate in your home country.
Wait for Approval: Processing time varies (typically 45-90 days).
Receive Visa & Travel: Once approved, move to Greece and begin your stay.
Unlike some visa programs, you can’t just arrive and apply from within the country.
Instead, you’ll need to submit your application through a Greek consulate or embassy in your home country—or in a country where you legally reside.
Once your application is submitted, Greek authorities review your documents and decide whether you meet all the conditions.
If everything checks out, you’ll receive an approval notice and a one-year residence permit that allows you to live in Greece while continuing your remote work.
But what exactly do you need to apply?
First, proof of remote work is essential.
Whether you’re employed by a company, working as a freelancer, or running your own business, you’ll need to submit documents proving that your income comes from outside Greece.
Employment contracts, client agreements, or official business registration documents will all be required.
Second, you need to prove financial stability.
A bank statement or tax return showing that you earn at least €3,500 per month after taxes is mandatory.
If you’re applying with family members, this amount increases based on the number of dependents.
Next, you’ll need to show that you have valid health insurance covering your stay in Greece.
Unlike some long-term visas, the digital nomad visa doesn’t allow you to enroll in the Greek public healthcare system, so private health insurance is a requirement.
Finally, there’s the paperwork itself.
Expect to submit a completed application form, a valid passport, and a criminal record check from your home country.
Greek authorities may request additional documents, depending on your case, so working with an expert can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a one-year residence permit.
After that, you can either renew it for another year or explore other visa options if you plan to stay longer.
One Mistake Can Cost You Months—Is Your Application Ready?
Submitting your application seems simple—until Greek authorities request extra documents, delay processing, or reject it due to missing details.
Our team ensures your visa application is complete, accurate, and structured for fast approval—so you don’t waste time or money.
Get Professional Help With Your VisaNow that we’ve covered the process, let’s talk about the financial side of things—taxes, residency rules, and what you need to know before moving to Greece.
Taxes & Legal Rules: What You Need to Know
Moving to Greece on a Digital Nomad Visa doesn’t automatically make you a tax resident—but it doesn’t mean you’re exempt from Greek taxes either.
Understanding how taxation works before you relocate is essential to avoid unexpected costs or compliance issues.
Do You Become a Greek Tax Resident?
The Greek Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers who earn money from outside Greece.
If you live in Greece for fewer than 183 days per year, you won’t be considered a tax resident.
Your income will remain taxable in your home country, as long as you don’t establish permanent tax residency in Greece.
But if you stay longer than 183 days in a calendar year, Greek tax authorities may classify you as a tax resident, which means you could be subject to Greek income tax.
Tax Residency Rule: Will You Be Taxed in Greece?
If you stay in Greece for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you may become a tax resident.| Time Spent in Greece | Tax Residency Status |
|---|---|
| Less than 183 days | Not a tax resident |
| More than 183 days | May become tax resident |
This is where proper planning comes in—some digital nomads structure their stay to avoid crossing this threshold, while others explore tax incentives to reduce their liability.
The 50% Income Tax Reduction: Who Qualifies?
Greece offers a major tax incentive for certain new residents—a 50% reduction on income tax for the first seven years.
However, not all digital nomads qualify.
This program is aimed at professionals who relocate to Greece to work for a local employer, so it doesn’t typically apply to digital nomads who work remotely for foreign companies.
If you plan to stay long-term and transition to Greek tax residency, it’s worth speaking to a tax advisor to explore whether this incentive could apply to your situation.
Otherwise, maintaining tax residency in your home country may be the best option.
What About Social Security & VAT?
Since the Digital Nomad Visa isn’t a work permit, you won’t be enrolled in the Greek social security system.
That means freelancers and business owners will still need to pay social security contributions in their home country.
If you run a business, VAT and corporate tax obligations will continue to follow the rules of your country of incorporation.
How to Avoid Double Taxation
Greece has tax treaties with many countries to prevent double taxation.
If you become a tax resident in Greece, but your home country also claims tax rights over your income, these treaties can help ensure you don’t pay taxes twice.
However, tax laws vary by country, so checking your country’s agreement with Greece is important before relocating.
Now that we’ve covered taxes, let’s look at another important question—can your family join you on the Greek Digital Nomad Visa?
Can Your Family Join? Bringing a Spouse & Kids
Moving to Greece as a digital nomad isn’t just an option for solo remote workers—your family can come with you.
The Greek Digital Nomad Visa allows you to bring a spouse and dependent children, but there are a few key conditions to keep in mind.
Who Qualifies as a Dependent?
Greece considers spouses and children as eligible dependents under the Digital Nomad Visa.
However, other family members—such as parents or extended relatives—aren’t included in this category.
If you’re applying with a spouse, you’ll need to prove that you’re legally married or in a recognized civil partnership.
Unlike some other visas, Greece does not grant dependent status to unmarried partners, even if they have lived together for years.
For children, eligibility depends on age.
Minors under 18 qualify automatically, but if your child is over 18, they won’t be included in your visa unless they’re legally dependent on you due to studies or disability.
Do You Need to Earn More to Bring Your Family?
Yes. The minimum income requirement increases if you apply with dependents.
While a solo applicant must earn at least €3,500 per month after taxes, this amount rises by 20% for a spouse and 15% for each child.
For example, if you’re moving with your spouse and one child, you’d need to show a minimum monthly income of €4,825 after taxes to qualify.
This ensures that families can support themselves without needing local employment in Greece.
Can Your Spouse Work in Greece?
No—at least not under the Digital Nomad Visa.
While your spouse can legally live in Greece as your dependent, they cannot seek employment with a Greek company.
Taxes, Income Rules & Family Visas—Are You Prepared?
Many digital nomads overlook tax laws and family visa rules, only to face unexpected tax bills or problems bringing their spouse and kids.
Whether you need help structuring your income, understanding tax treaties, or securing dependent visas, we make sure everything is handled the right way.
Get Expert Help With Taxes & VisasHowever, if they also work remotely for a foreign employer or run an international business, they can qualify under the same conditions as you.
For families looking for a more flexible visa option, it may be worth exploring other Greek residence permits that allow spouses to work locally.
Bringing your family to Greece is possible, but the rules are strict, especially regarding employment.
If your spouse or dependents need additional work rights, a different visa route may be a better fit.
Next, let’s talk about something just as important—where to live.
Which parts of Greece are the best for digital nomads?
Where to Live: Best Places for Digital Nomads in Greece
Choosing where to live in Greece as a digital nomad isn’t just about finding a beautiful location—it’s about balancing reliable internet, cost of living, community, and overall lifestyle.
Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Greece
Explore the best locations for remote workers based on cost, internet, and lifestyle.
Athens
🏙 Best for: City life, networking, culture
💻 Internet Speed: 🔵 Fast (100 Mbps) 💰 Cost of Living: High (€1,200/month) 🏢 Coworking Spaces: 20+ spaces available 🌍 Expat Community: Large, active digital nomad hubs ☀️ Weather: Mild winters, hot summers ✈️ Accessibility: Major international airport with direct flights worldwideThessaloniki
🏙 Best for: Affordable living, food scene, relaxed pace
💻 Internet Speed: 🟢 Moderate (85 Mbps) 💰 Cost of Living: Lower (€900/month) 🏢 Coworking Spaces: 10+ spaces 🌍 Expat Community: Growing but smaller than Athens ☀️ Weather: Cooler winters, warm summers ✈️ Accessibility: International airport, fewer direct flightsCrete
🏙 Best for: Island life, nature, expat hubs
💻 Internet Speed: 🟠 Slower (75 Mbps) 💰 Cost of Living: Low (€850/month) 🏢 Coworking Spaces: 5+ spaces 🌍 Expat Community: Small but tight-knit ☀️ Weather: Mild year-round ✈️ Accessibility: 2 airports (Heraklion & Chania), mostly European flightsWhile Athens is the obvious choice, Greece has plenty of other destinations that cater to remote workers looking for a mix of productivity and quality of life.
Athens: The Remote Work Capital
If you want fast internet, coworking spaces, and easy access to international flights, Athens is the best choice for digital nomads.
The city has a growing remote work community, with plenty of networking events, meetups, and work-friendly cafés.
Internet speeds are generally good, and most neighborhoods have reliable fiber connections.
The cost of living is higher than in other parts of Greece, but still much lower than in other European capitals.
If you enjoy an urban lifestyle with ancient history, a vibrant food scene, and endless cultural experiences, Athens is hard to beat.
Thessaloniki: A More Relaxed City Option
Greece’s second-largest city offers a slower pace of life while still providing solid infrastructure for remote work.
Thessaloniki is a great alternative to Athens, with lower rent, a strong café culture, and a lively student and expat scene.
While the city has fewer coworking spaces, internet reliability is generally good, and there’s no shortage of beachfront cafés where you can work with a sea view.
It’s also well-connected to other European cities, making it a strong option for digital nomads who want an affordable urban base.
Crete: A Digital Nomad-Friendly Island
For those who want island life without sacrificing modern amenities, Crete is the best option.
Cities like Chania and Heraklion offer fast internet, coworking spaces, and a laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere.
The island has a thriving remote work community, especially in Chania, where coworking hubs and expat meetups make it easy to connect with other digital nomads.
The cost of living is slightly lower than in Athens, and the island offers an unbeatable mix of outdoor activities, stunning beaches, and fresh local food.
Smaller Islands: Beautiful but Challenging
While the idea of working remotely from Santorini or Mykonos sounds appealing, these islands aren’t the most practical choice for digital nomads.
Internet connections can be unstable, the cost of living is significantly higher, and off-season life can feel isolating.
However, if you’re looking for a seasonal stay, islands like Naxos, Paros, and Rhodes offer a better balance—stronger infrastructure, lower prices, and a more sustainable remote work setup.
Which Areas Offer Tax Incentives?
If you’re considering staying in Greece long-term and becoming a tax resident, location matters.
The Greek government offers a 50% income tax reduction for new residents moving to specific regions.
However, this incentive doesn’t apply to digital nomads unless they transition to a different visa type that allows them to register for tax residency.
The best location ultimately depends on your lifestyle.
Athens is the best all-around choice, Crete offers a balance of city life and island beauty, and Thessaloniki provides affordability with a strong remote work scene.
Now that we’ve covered the best places to live, let’s see how Greece compares to other European digital nomad destinations.
Greek Digital Nomad Visa vs. Other Countries
Greece isn’t the only country offering a digital nomad visa, and for remote workers, choosing the right destination often comes down to tax benefits, cost of living, and ease of application.
So how does Greece compare to other popular digital nomad hubs like Portugal, Spain, and Croatia?
Greek Digital Nomad Visa vs. Other Countries
Compare Greece with Portugal, Spain, and Croatia to find the best option.
🇬🇷 Greece
📅 Visa Duration: 1 year (renewable) 💰 Income Requirement: €3,500/month after tax ⏳ Visa Processing Time: 45-90 days 🏦 Tax Benefits: No Greek tax residency if <183 days 🌍 Cost of Living: Low (€850-€1,200/month) 📡 Internet Speed: Moderate (75-100 Mbps) 🤝 Expat Community: Growing, mainly in Athens & Crete 📄 Application Process: Simple, handled at embassies🇵🇹 Portugal
📅 Visa Duration: 1 or 2 years (renewable) 💰 Income Requirement: €3,040/month after tax ⏳ Visa Processing Time: 90+ days 🏦 Tax Benefits: 10-year NHR tax program 🌍 Cost of Living: Medium (€1,200-€1,800/month) 📡 Internet Speed: Fast (100-200 Mbps) 🤝 Expat Community: Very large, Lisbon is a global hub 📄 Application Process: Long, bureaucratic process🇪🇸 Spain
📅 Visa Duration: 1 year (renewable up to 5 years) 💰 Income Requirement: €2,520/month after tax ⏳ Visa Processing Time: 60-90 days 🏦 Tax Benefits: Special tax rates for expats 🌍 Cost of Living: High (€1,500-€2,500/month) 📡 Internet Speed: Very fast (300 Mbps+) 🤝 Expat Community: Large, Madrid & Barcelona popular 📄 Application Process: Requires local tax setup🇭🇷 Croatia
📅 Visa Duration: 1 year (non-renewable) 💰 Income Requirement: €2,300/month after tax ⏳ Visa Processing Time: 30-45 days 🏦 Tax Benefits: No mandatory tax residency 🌍 Cost of Living: Low (€1,000-€1,500/month) 📡 Internet Speed: Moderate (80-150 Mbps) 🤝 Expat Community: Smaller, focused in Zagreb & Split 📄 Application Process: Fastest, no tax residency requiredGreece vs. Portugal: Tax Incentives vs. Simplicity
Portugal’s D7 Visa and Digital Nomad Visa are among the most attractive in Europe, largely because of the country’s favorable tax schemes.
Under Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program, eligible remote workers can enjoy reduced income tax rates for 10 years.
However, Portugal’s visa application process tends to be longer and more bureaucratic, often taking several months.
Greece, on the other hand, doesn’t offer the same tax benefits for digital nomads.
However, the application process is simpler, and the country offers a lower cost of living in many regions compared to Lisbon or Porto.
If you’re looking for a faster visa approval and a more affordable Mediterranean lifestyle, Greece has the edge.
Greece vs. Spain: Cost of Living & Internet Speed
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU remote workers to live in the country for up to five years, with the added benefit of becoming a tax resident under favorable expat tax schemes.
One of Spain’s biggest advantages is internet speed and infrastructure, particularly in major cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
Greece’s internet infrastructure is improving, but it still lags behind Spain in some regions.
However, living costs in Greece are significantly lower, especially when comparing Athens to Barcelona or Madrid.
If your priority is a cheaper Mediterranean lifestyle, Greece is the better option. If faster internet and long-term tax benefits are your main concerns, Spain might be worth considering.
Greece vs. Croatia: Visa Duration & Quality of Life
Croatia offers a one-year digital nomad visa with no renewal option, meaning you must leave the country once your permit expires.
In contrast, Greece allows you to renew your visa after the first year, making it a more sustainable long-term choice.
Cost-wise, Croatia and Greece are similar, with both offering affordable rent, stunning coastlines, and relaxed lifestyles.
However, Croatia’s visa does not require a minimum income tax payment, while Greece has stricter financial requirements.
For nomads looking for a short-term, easy-to-get visa, Croatia is a great choice.
But for those considering staying longer or transitioning to a different residence permit, Greece provides more flexibility.
So, Is Greece the Best Choice?
If you’re looking for a fast and relatively easy visa process, low living costs, and a stunning Mediterranean lifestyle, Greece is one of the strongest options.
While other countries offer better tax incentives or faster internet, Greece stands out for its flexibility, affordability, and high quality of life.
Estimate Your Monthly Cost in Greece
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Now, let’s talk about what happens after your first year—how renewals work and whether this visa can lead to permanent residency.
Renewal & What Happens Next
The Greek Digital Nomad Visa is issued for one year, but if you want to stay longer, you don’t have to leave—Greece allows digital nomads to renew their visa for an additional year.
That means you can legally live in Greece for up to two years without transitioning to another type of residence permit.
But renewing isn’t automatic.
Just like the initial application, you’ll need to prove that you still meet the requirements—including maintaining remote work, earning the minimum required income, and having valid health insurance.
Any changes to your employment status, income, or family situation could impact your renewal.
So what happens after two years?
If you want to stay in Greece beyond the second year, the Digital Nomad Visa won’t be enough—you’ll need to apply for a different residence permit.
The two most common options are:
- The Greek Digital Nomad Residence Permit – If you’ve held the Digital Nomad Visa for at least one year, you can apply for this permit, which allows you to stay for up to three more years. The conditions are similar to the original visa, but you must apply while you still have a valid permit.
- Other Long-Term Residency Options – Some digital nomads switch to a Greek Golden Visa (by investing in real estate) or explore other residency programs that allow long-term stays.
Unlike some other countries, Greece does not allow digital nomads to directly transition to permanent residency or citizenship based on this visa alone.
However, if you spend enough time in Greece under a different type of residence permit, you may become eligible for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after seven years of continuous legal residence.
Whether you plan to stay short-term or make Greece your long-term base, understanding your next steps after the Digital Nomad Visa will help you avoid legal complications.
Now, let’s wrap everything up—is Greece the right choice for you?
Is Greece the Right Choice for You?
The Greek Digital Nomad Visa offers a straightforward path to living in one of Europe’s most affordable and beautiful destinations while working remotely.
With its relaxed lifestyle, relatively low cost of living, and strong expat community, Greece is a top choice for remote workers looking for a mix of productivity and quality of life.
But is it the right fit for you?
If you’re a non-EU remote worker, freelancer, or business owner earning at least €3,500 per month, and you’re looking for a one- to two-year stay in Greece, this visa is one of the easiest ways to make that happen.
The process is faster and more flexible than many other European digital nomad visas, and with the option to renew or transition to another residence permit, it can serve as a stepping stone for a longer stay.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to stay in Greece permanently or transition to citizenship, the Digital Nomad Visa alone won’t be enough.
Since it doesn’t provide a direct path to permanent residency, you’ll need to explore alternative visa options after your initial stay.
For remote workers who want to enjoy Mediterranean life while keeping their international career, Greece is an excellent choice.
With the right planning, it can be more than just a short-term move—it can be the start of something bigger.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to apply, understanding the process in detail is key to avoiding delays or complications.
Totsi’s team helps digital nomads secure their visa efficiently, ensuring everything is done correctly from start to finish.
The Greek Digital Nomad Visa—Your Opportunity, or a Bureaucratic Nightmare?
Getting approved is possible—but only if you handle everything correctly. One mistake in your income proof, tax strategy, or paperwork can mean rejection or costly delays.
At Totsi, we guide digital nomads through every step, ensuring a smooth application and a hassle-free move to Greece. Don’t leave your visa to chance.
Secure Your Digital Nomad Visa NowContact Us to Apply for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa
Tell us about your remote work setup, and we’ll help you navigate the application process for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa.
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