Tips for a Successful Move to the Sun-Drenched Mediterranean
Greece may be known for its ancient history – and for being the birthplace of democracy – but it’s also a popular destination for expats. The country’s low cost of living, high-quality healthcare, vibrant culture, and proximity to other European countries make moving to Greece an appealing choice for foreigners.
Whether you dream of living by the tranquil Mediterranean Sea, waking up to stunning vistas of Santorini, or enjoying coffee by the incredible ruins of Delphi, this comprehensive guide will help you prepare for a successful relocation.
Greece may be known for its ancient history – and for being the birthplace of democracy – but it’s also a popular destination for expats. The country’s low cost of living, high-quality healthcare, vibrant culture, and proximity to other European countries make moving to Greece an appealing choice for foreigners.
Whether you dream of living by the tranquil Mediterranean Sea, waking up to stunning vistas of Santorini, or enjoying coffee by the incredible ruins of Delphi, this comprehensive guide will help you prepare for a successful relocation.
Legal Requirements for Moving to Greece
Greece is part of the Schengen area, which means that Americans can visit the country for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. However, to stay in Greece for more than 90, you must obtain a long-stay visa under Greece’s Type D National Visa category.
Several different visas are available in this category, and you should choose the one that best suits your situation.
Does Greece Require Immigrants to Have Health Insurance?
Most of Greece’s visas require foreigners to have private health insurance. Before you apply for a visa, check the specific requirements to confirm whether you must provide proof of coverage with your application.
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Visa Requirements for Greece
Below is an overview of each Greek visa and the documentation you need to apply for it to help you find the right one for your needs.
Note that the visa rules for non-EU citizens differ from those for people outside the EU, so remember to check the correct regulations.
Work Visa
European citizens from other EU countries do not need a work visa to work in Greece. However, if they plan to stay for more than 90 days, they must register their Greek address with the local authority and obtain a residence permit.
If you're a non-EU citizen who plans to work in Greece, you’ll first need to apply for a type D visa, which is intended for long stays. This should be done from your home country.
Once you arrive in Greece on this visa, you must also apply for a residence permit and a work permit from the local authority within 30 days.
To apply for a work visa, you must provide the following:
- A job offer or employment contract from a Greek employer
- Proof of health insurance
- Evidence of professional qualifications
- A criminal background check
The type D visa grants a two-year residence permit, which can be renewed for three additional years.
Retirement Visa
Greece does not have a specific retirement visa, but some retirees may qualify for the Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa or the Golden Visa.
The FIP Visa is available to people who can prove they already have the financial means to live in the country. To meet the requirements, you must:
- Earn at least $2,300 a month
- Have at least $54,000 in savings
When you apply for an FIP visa, you must also provide proof of health insurance. Once you have the visa, you must renew it every two years.
Alternatively, foreigners who wish to invest in Greece may be eligible for the Golden Visa. To qualify, applicants must be able to invest between $261,700 and $837,500 in the Greek economy.
This can be invested in various means, including:
- Greek real estate
- Time-shares
- Fixed-term deposits
- Corporate or government bonds
- A Greek business
The Golden Visa provides a permanent resident permit, though holders must renew their card every few years.
Read More: How Long Will $1 Million in Retirement Savings Last Internationally?
Study Visa
To apply for a student visa, you must prove that you’ve been accepted to a Greek university accredited by the Ministry of Education. You’ll also need to provide documentation showing where you will live and evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses.
Foreign students must also submit proof of medical insurance and obtain a medical certificate from a Greek public hospital within 40 days of arrival in Greece.
If you intend to study in Greece for more than 90 days, you will need a renewable residence permit that allows you to study at a Greek school for the duration of your program.
It’s a good idea to contact the institution where you plan to study, as most Greek universities are happy to walk international students through the student visa application and renewal processes.
Digital Nomad Visa
In 2021, Greece began issuing Digital Nomad Visas for foreigners who wish to live in Greece while working remotely. This visa allows you to work remotely from Greece for up to 12 months.
After this period, you can apply for a two-year renewable Digital Nomad Residence Permit if you want to stay longer. It’s an excellent option for expats who are self-employed or work for employers that offer fully remote positions.
To qualify, you must meet a minimum income threshold. As of August 21, 2024, the requirement is a monthly net income of $3,665. Note that with the Digital Nomad Visa, you cannot work for a Greek employer or have clients based in Greece.
Read More: 31 Tips for Digital Nomads
Can Foreigners Become Permanent Residents of Greece?
Some Greek visas give foreigners a pathway to permanent residency or even citizenship. For example, if you move to Greece on a work, digital nomad, or FIP Visa, you can apply for permanent residency after living there for five years on a temporary residence permit.
You’ll need to demonstrate that you still meet all the requirements you met when you obtained your FIP Visa, including medical insurance and having sufficient funds to support yourself.
To apply for a certificate of permanent residence with a FIP Visa, visit a Citizens Service Center (KEP) or book an appointment online at myKEPlive. The application and processing fees are approximately $2,780.
If you move to Greece on the Golden Visa, you don’t need to worry about establishing permanent residency. The Golden Visa can be renewed as many times as needed, effectively granting visa holders permanent residency in Greece.
Foreign citizens who are related to a Greek citizen may also qualify for permanent residency after living in Greece for five years. For example, if your spouse or a parent is Greek, you can live in the country for five years on a temporary resident visa before applying for permanent residency.
Can Foreigners Become Citizens of Greece?
Yes, it is possible to become a Greek citizen, though the process can take some time. In most cases, you must live in Greece for five years on a temporary residence permit and then establish permanent residency. After this, you must live in the country for an additional seven years before qualifying for citizenship.
However, there are some exceptions. FIP or Golden Visa holders can apply for Greek citizenship after seven years of residency, as these are considered permanent visas. Foreign citizens married to Greek citizens can apply for citizenship after living in Greece for three years on a permanent resident permit.
Regardless of how you qualify for citizenship, there are several requirements. For example, you must pass an exam to prove your knowledge of Greek politics, history, and culture. However, the test is only available in Greek, which means you will also need to be able to read and write in Greek.
Is Greece a Safe Country to Live In?
Compared to other countries, Greece has a moderate level of crime. According to July 2024 crime and safety data from Numbeo, Greece ranks as the 75th safest country out of 146 evaluated.
Additionally, the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI) ranks Greece as the 40th safest country to live in out of 163 countries. The GPI considers factors such as political stability, terrorism rates, and other conflict-related data to determine its rankings.
Common Crimes in Greece
The most common crimes in Greece are petty theft, purse snatching, pickpocketing, and street scams (such as the “photography scam”) that typically target tourists. The photography scam usually involves a seemingly friendly local asking you to photograph them with their camera. When you hand the camera back, they drop it but blame you for the mishap. The scammer will then demand money from you.
While assaults, armed robberies, hate crimes, and car thefts are rare in Greece, there is a higher-than-average incidence of organized crime. Interpol states that Greece’s location “at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa” makes it a prime base for organized crime rings. These groups are often responsible for serious crimes like human trafficking, drug trafficking, and large-scale financial crimes such as art theft.
LGBTQIA+ Safety in Greece
The LGBTQIA+ community should know that Athens and Mykonos are among the most welcoming destinations in Greece. However, foreigners should be aware that residents in smaller towns may be more traditional and, as a result, less accepting than those in major cities.
This can sometimes lead to stares or unfortunate comments. Nevertheless, in general, LGBTQIA+ expats should not have to worry about their physical safety any more than any other foreign citizen in Greece.
Other Safety Tips for Living in Greece
Like any country, you should be vigilant, use common sense, and remain aware of your surroundings. For instance, it's best to avoid flashing cash or wearing fancy jewelry.
It's also advisable to keep your cash, passport, and credit cards in a secure location, either at home or on your person, and never leave bags unattended. Covering keypads when entering your credit or debit card PIN numbers is also smart.
These safety precautions are not unique to Greece and are helpful in any country or city. For specific travel advisories and safety advice for Greece, visit the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs.
Read More: Insurance for Travel to Greece
Natural Disasters and Weather in Greece
Greece is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, extreme temperatures, and wildfires, especially during the hot summer months.
In summer, average high temperatures reach 93 degrees Fahrenheit, but summer 2023 saw record highs of 115 degrees. In July 2024, Greece experienced 14 consecutive days with temperatures of 104 degrees and higher. The heat can be intense, so it’s important to avoid excessive sun exposure and stay hydrated. However, in winter, heavy rains and storms can lead to flash floods.
If you move to a remote area of Greece, make sure you have a solid understanding of your surroundings and how to respond to environmental emergencies. Many remote areas have limited emergency services, so it’s important to have an emergency contact you can rely on in case services are inaccessible when you need them.
The Best Places to Live in Greece
From charming coastal towns to bustling cities and rural mountain villages, Greece offers something for every expat’s lifestyle and needs.
We've rounded up the best places to live in Greece based on factors such as housing, the job market, and quality-of-life features, including walkability and access to green spaces.
Patras
With a population of over 200,000, Patras is Greece’s third-largest city and one of its greenest. Parks and nature cover more than one-third of its area. The city is also close to beautiful beaches, offering easy access to the Mediterranean coast.
Located in Western Greece at the northern tip of the Peloponnese peninsula, Patras is known as a thriving hub for education and commerce. It also boasts a lively nightlife scene. The city is home to vibrant cultural festivals, including the Patras Carnival, one of Greece's largest and most famous events.
Expats in Patras enjoy an excellent quality of life. The city offers top-notch healthcare, a low cost of living, and a low crime rate. Year-round pleasant weather adds to the charm, and its local ferry system makes weekend trips to Italy or the Ionian Islands easy and convenient.
Athens
As the capital city of Greece, Athens has plenty to offer expats seeking to live in this Mediterranean country. More than three million people live in Athens, amid its rich history and stunning ancient buildings that sit alongside their modern counterparts. The city’s world-renowned landmarks, such as the Acropolis, and its lively cultural scene make it a dynamic place to call home.
Of all Greek cities, Athens offers the most job opportunities for expats, particularly those looking to work for multinational companies or in tourism. Its excellent healthcare facilities are appealing to foreign retirees, while its walkable streets are perfect for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Athens is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with museums, theaters, and music festivals year-round.
Digital nomads will appreciate Athens’ fast, reliable Wi-Fi and the abundance of cafes ideal for working remotely. Excellent public transportation further enhances the city’s appeal, offering easy access to all corners of Athens and beyond.
Rhodes
Rhodes is the capital of a small Dodecanese island of the same name in the Aegean Sea. With a population of over 120,000, the city is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the medieval town, which makes it a major cultural hub. Known for its rich ancient and medieval history, Rhodes also offers a low cost of living, making it one of the most affordable cities in Greece.
Rhodes is also family-friendly, thanks to low crime rates and a wide variety of shopping and dining options that cater to all ages. Beautiful, clear weather, low pollution, and a large expat community are just a few other reasons to settle here.
Expats will also enjoy the island’s outdoor activities, including stunning beaches, hiking trails, and water sports like windsurfing. Additionally, Rhodes offers easy access to other parts of Greece and Europe, with regular ferry and flight connections.
The island hosts several cultural events, such as the Rhodes International Film Festival and the Medieval Rose Festival, giving residents plenty of opportunities to immerse themselves in local traditions.
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is a port city on the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea. With a population of nearly one million, it’s the second-largest city in Greece. While the cost of living here is higher than the national average, it remains more affordable than Athens.
Foreigners will find many job opportunities, particularly in the tourism and business sectors, including industries like oil, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and liquor.
Thessaloniki is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments. These landmarks include iconic landmarks like the Byzantine Baths and numerous ancient churches.
The city's walkable beachfront promenade invites visitors to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. With its balmy weather, low traffic, vibrant nightlife, and thriving restaurant scene, Thessaloniki is an exciting and dynamic place to live and work.
The Safest Places in Greece
The cities listed below are popular with foreigners and have a reputation for safety. All three places share a Numbeo Safety Index above 75 and a Crime Index below 30. These numbers indicate a very low rate of violent crime, property crime, and other safety threats.
Chania
Located on the stunning island of Crete, the picturesque town of Chania is considered one of the safest places to live in Greece, with very low rates of violent crime and theft. With a population of around 54,000, the town offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Residents enjoy Chania's natural beauty, including secluded coves, pristine beaches, a charming Old Town, and historic landmarks like medieval castles. While there are no UNESCO World Heritage Sites directly in Chania, Crete is home to several, such as the Palace of Knossos, which are within a few hours' drive.
The cost of living in Chania is slightly higher than in many other parts of Greece and is comparable to Athens in some respects, particularly housing and dining out. However, the city’s safety, minimal traffic, low pollution, and highly rated healthcare system make it popular for expats seeking a balanced lifestyle in Greece.
Corfu
Corfu, one of Greece’s lush Ionian Islands, is renowned for its safety, greenery, and charm. The island is home to about 100,000 people, with 25,000 residing in Corfu Town, its vibrant capital. History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, including ancient fortresses and the Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Corfu has a thriving tourism industry, offering seasonal job opportunities for English-speaking expats, particularly in hospitality and related fields. After work, residents can unwind on the island’s diverse beaches, including some with white sand, or explore its abundance of secluded bays and scenic landscapes.
Corfu Town is particularly pedestrian-friendly, with charming café-lined streets and boulevards. However, the island also features rural areas with narrow, winding roads that are best navigated by car or scooter.
Santorini
Santorini is an incredible place to live – if you can afford it. Due to its status as a luxury destination, the cost of living, especially for housing and dining, is significantly higher than in most parts of Greece, including Athens.
The island’s higher price tag and modest population of 15,000 can make it feel rather exclusive, and it tends to attract well-heeled expats seeking stunning views and a laid-back lifestyle.
Crime is rare, and residents often report feeling safe, even when walking alone at night. Santorini is renowned for its unique Cycladic architecture, ancient archaeological sites, and cultural significance, making it a haven for history and culture lovers.
Hikers also love the island’s hilly terrain and dazzling cliffside vistas, which feature trails that wind through traditional villages, vineyards, and volcanic calderas.
What is the Cost of Living in Greece?
The average cost of living for one person in Greece is between $1,150 and $1,400 per month, including rent. That’s about 30% lower than the EU average and 20% less than in nearby Italy.
If you're moving from the United States, you’ll be pleased to know that living in Greece is about 53% less expensive than in the U.S.
According to Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index, Greece is the 35th most expensive country out of 121 reviewed, while the United States ranks 9th. Even within the EU, Greece is relatively affordable compared to France (15th), Germany (21st), Italy (26th), and Malta (31st).
Read More: The Cost of Living Abroad
How to Find a Place to Live in Greece
Foreigners are welcome to rent or even buy a home in Greece. You do not need to be a citizen or even a resident to purchase property in the country.
Since only around half of the Greek population speaks English, it’s advisable to work with a bilingual real estate agent who can help translate when speaking to landlords or sellers. Notably, English proficiency is higher in major cities and tourist destinations like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Santorini.
Housing options in Greece are diverse, ranging from apartments in multi-unit buildings to luxury villas, single-family homes, and maisonettes. Maisonettes have their own private entrances and are similar to townhouses or duplexes found in the U.S.
You can find available properties on websites like:
These sites offer a wide variety of properties in Greece, and many include detailed search filters to help narrow down your options based on location, budget, and property type. Additionally, many landlords post rental ads in newspapers or display signs in windows.
Lease terms in Greece typically require a minimum of three years, though shorter-term leases can sometimes be negotiated. However, shorter leases often come with higher rent. Regardless of lease length, a deposit equal to two or three months' rent is generally required.
Here’s a snapshot of the average cost to rent an apartment in Greece as of July 2024 (prices are in U.S. dollars):
- One-bedroom apartment in a city center: $480–$590
- One-bedroom apartment outside a city center: $380–$475
- Three-bedroom apartment in a city center: $825–$1,020
- Three-bedroom apartment outside a city center: $700–$850
As with any country, prices vary by location. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in Athens costs around $560 to $690 per month. A similar apartment in the mid-sized city of Patras will cost you about $405 to $500. Conversely, an apartment of the same size on the island of Santorini may cost $1,400 to $1,700 per month.
Finding a Job in Greece
Finding a job in Greece can be challenging if you don’t speak Greek. Since you will need a formal job offer from a Greek employer to apply for a work permit (especially for non-EU citizens), it’s best to secure a job before you move.
Most expats find employment in Greece’s tourism and hospitality sectors. If you have experience in other fields, consider looking for multinational companies in your industry with offices in Greece.
You can start your job search by checking popular online job boards, including:
Before applying, be sure to tailor your resume to meet local recruitment expectations. It’s also helpful to familiarize yourself with Greece’s business culture, as it can differ from what you might be used to in the U.S. or other countries.
For example, lunch breaks in Greece are often long, lasting two to three hours, because lunch is typically the biggest meal of the day. Dinner is usually lighter and eaten around 9 p.m. Socializing and building personal connections are also important in Greek work culture, which may be surprising to American expats at first.
Banking in Greece: How to Set Up Your Finances
Like other EU member states, Greece's standard currency is the Euro. You can visit Xe Currency Converter to see the current exchange rates between the euro and the currency of your home country.
To set up a bank account in Greece, you will need an AFM (a Greek tax number or Arithmo Forologikou Mitroou in Greek). If you don't already have one, you'll need to visit a bank branch in person.
When setting up an account, you will need to provide several documents, including:
- Your passport
- A valid visa or residency permit
- Proof of your Greek address (such as a utility bill or lease)
- Proof of your income (e.g., a bank statement or pay stub)
- Your most recent Greek tax declaration
What is the Tax Rate in Greece?
Greece has a progressive tax system, meaning tax rates increase as your income increases. As of 2024, the personal income tax rate ranges from 9% to 45%.
Expats who are considered non-residents are only taxed on income earned within Greece. Residents of Greece, however, are taxed on all their income, including that gained from abroad.
It’s important to understand local tax regulations and obligations so that you remain compliant and avoid legal penalties or additional fees. Americans moving to Greece should note that the Greek tax year follows the calendar year, meaning taxes must be filed and paid by December 31, not April 15. Additionally, the US and Greece have a treaty in place so that Americans living there will not have to pay double tax on the same income.
Many foreign residents in Greece find it easier to have a professional handle their taxes for them and choose to hire international tax accountants in the country. This can be useful because professionals will ensure that you’re taking advantage of any and all tax incentives that may exist and comply with local and international laws.
Read More: Finding Help to Navigate Expat Tax Matters
What is the Greek Education System Like?
Greek universities are known for offering high-quality education. The top universities in Greece include the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, and the National Technical University of Athens.
Out of more than 2,700 higher education institutions in Europe, these three universities rank within the top 200.
Unlike in the U.S., Greek universities place less emphasis on “campus life.” It’s important to note that most professors teach in Greek, though some universities offer certain courses or programs in English.
For families moving to Greece with children, there are 21 international schools across the country, 15 of which use English as the language of instruction. Most of these schools are located in Athens, though Thessaloniki also has one American international school.
Read More: How to Choose the Right International School
Greek Language and Culture
Although half of Greece’s population speaks English, learning Greek will make it easier for you to find a job and navigate daily life. Many schools and institutions in the country offer Greek language classes for international citizens, and there are also private language schools where you can take classes.
In general, Greeks are very welcoming to people from different cultures. The largest immigrant communities are in Athens and Thessaloniki, where locals are particularly open to foreigners.
There are some unique aspects of Greek culture that may be different from what some expats are used to. For example, Greeks are very family-oriented and known for their hospitality. As such, it’s not uncommon to "drop in" on someone without an invitation, which is quite different from the norms in the US and UK, for example.
Religion also plays an important role in Greek society. About 90% of the population identifies as Greek Orthodox (a branch of Christianity), and the biggest and most important annual festival is Orthodox Easter.
During Holy Week, locals participate in different daily Orthodox traditions, such as enjoying special foods or participating in processions. These culminate in a fireworks display during which people cheer, hug, and kiss.
Some of Greece’s major non-religious festivals include the Epidaurus Festival, which celebrates ancient Greek theater, as well as the Athens Marathon, the Ifestia (Volcano) Festival, the Aegina (Pistachio) Festival, and the Corfu Carnival.
When it comes to food, dairy is a staple in Greek meals. There’s a good chance you’ll be served Greek yogurt and feta cheese with almost every meal. Seafoods like calamari, sea bass, and squid are also widely enjoyed, as well as meats like lamb, pork, and goat. There’s also a huge focus on using fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients.
And yes – the Greeks do smash plates during celebrations. However, it’s not to be destructive for no reason. In Greek culture, smashing plates is believed to ward off evil spirits that might interfere with the celebration.
Understanding the Healthcare System in Greece
Foreigners looking to move to Greece will be pleased to know that the Greek healthcare system is excellent and offers a mix of public and private services.
The National Health System (ESY, or Ethniko Systima Ygeias) is a public system that provides free emergency medical care to everyone, regardless of visa, residency, or citizenship status. Foreign residents can access the ESY system if they contribute to the Social Insurance Institute (IKA).
However, most expats prefer to carry private health insurance for easier access to Greece’s private hospitals, many of which are located in larger cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki. Private hospitals typically have shorter wait times than public ones, better amenities, and often offer English-speaking physicians and staff.
There are several great health plans to choose from, including:
IMG Global Medical Plan
- Four plan options and plus optional coverages
- Choice of the coverage areas and deductibles
- Freedom to choose your health care provider
Cigna Global Medical Plan
- Flexibility to tailor plans to suit your individual needs
- Access to Cigna Global’s network of trusted doctors
- Convenience and confidence of 24/7/365 customer service
Notably, U.S. citizens planning on moving to Greece can also apply for the following plan:
Xplorer Worldwide Medical Plan
- Premium Benefits, Coverage and Service
- Define your deductible and prescription benefits
- For Foreigners in the US or US Citizens Abroad
Depending on your visa type, you may be required to show proof of private health insurance when applying for your visa and must maintain it during your stay. For example, those with a residence permit or work visa often need to provide proof of health insurance when applying for a residence card.
While emergency services are free for all, private health insurance can cover other healthcare services beyond the emergency room, such as specialist consultations or elective surgeries. Prescription medications are generally affordable, but some may require out-of-pocket payment if you do not have private coverage.
You can find more detailed information in our article on Health Insurance in Greece for Expats and Foreigners.
Read More: Hospitals in Greece
Ready to Embrace the Mediterranean Dream?
The natural beauty of Greece is truly unmatched. From the warm hospitality of the locals to the awe-inspiring ancient ruins and crystal-clear ocean views, it’s no wonder so many expats choose to call this Mediterranean paradise home. Add to that an affordable cost of living, delicious food, and a vibrant culture, and it’s easy to see the appeal.
Foreign retirees and expats planning on moving to Greece with family members can especially benefit from the country's exceptional healthcare and education systems, which offer a high standard of living for all ages. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retirement or a vibrant life surrounded by history, art, and nature, Greece has something to offer everyone.
For those considering making the move, Greece’s diverse landscapes, from the sun-drenched islands to the scenic countryside, provide endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The warmth of the Greek people, the ease of settling in, and the rich cultural heritage make it a place where you'll quickly feel at home.
If you’re preparing to make the move, don’t forget to protect yourself with a global medical plan. That way, you can enjoy everything this incredible country has to offer with the peace of mind that you're fully protected, no matter what comes your way. With the right preparation, your Mediterranean adventure awaits!
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