Travel to Greece for work

Question

Accepted Answer

This guide is for British citizens travelling for business or other work purposes. It explains what employers, employees, or the self-employed need to do if they need a visa or permit.

This information is provided as a guide only. You must always check the exact application process and document requirements with Greece’s embassy or immigration authorities.

Entry requirements

If you’re going to Greece to work (or any other EU country, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein) you must make sure you meet passport and other travel requirements.

Greece is in the Schengen area. If you’re travelling for business for up to 90 days in a 180-day period, you may be able to do some business-related activities without needing a visa or permit, such as attend business meetings. It does not matter how many countries you visit in the Schengen area. Your total stay must be no more than 90 days in every 180 days. The 180-day period keeps ‘rolling’.

If you’re staying for longer, or for other types of work, you may need a visa or permit.

The Greek authorities are responsible for setting and enforcing entry rules. They decide which activities need a visa or permit, or which may be exempt.

You must always check with Greece’s embassy or immigration authorities before you travel, to make sure you meet their legal requirements.

If you’re working in more than one country, you need to check the entry rules of each country.

If you need a passport, visa or permit, you should apply well in advance of travel.

Visa and permit documents

This guide explains the general application process for some of the visa or permit types available in Greece. It includes a checklist of documents that you’ll usually need to include when applying.

It may not cover all scenarios so you must always check the exact application process and document requirements with Greece’s embassy or immigration authorities.

Any documents submitted to the immigration authorities in Greece will need to be translated into Greek. You can submit documents in English to the Greek consulate in the UK.

You also need to check if documents must be:

‘legalised’ (with an apostille) or notarised
originals, or if copies are acceptable
signed in ink (a wet signature), or if they can be signed electronically (an e-signature)
dated within a certain period of time, such as 30 days before you submit your application

Countries often use the terms visa, work permit and residence permit differently. For example, some may refer to a work permit as a visa. This guide uses the same terms used in Greece, so you know which ones to use when speaking to Greece’s authorities.

Check if you need a visa or permit

You do not need a visa if you’re travelling to Greece for up to 90 days in a 180-day period for specific business-related activities. These activities can include:

attending a job interview
attending a trade fair
attending a board meeting
attending a meeting with client or customer
attending meetings with colleagues
attending a meeting with a contractor or vendor
negotiating deals or contracts
attending, speaking or presenting at a conference (unpaid)
team building activities

These activities are covered by the Schengen visa waiver.

Document requirements

At the border, you may be asked to show:

proof of return travel, such as plane or train tickets
health insurance that covers your entire stay
proof of accommodation for your entire stay
enough money for the duration of your trip
an invitation letter from your employer explaining your trip

Check Greece’s exemptions

Certain types of work and activities do not require a visa or permit because they’re exempt.

All countries have their own exemptions. What may be exempt in one country may not be in another. You should always check with the country’s authorities.

EU intra-company transfers from other countries

If you have an EU intra-company transfer permit (EU ICT) from another country you can work for up to 90 days in a 180-day period in Greece. You do not have to apply for a visa or permit.

The company you’re moving from must notify the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum.

Show proof of exemption

You need to be able to show proof that you’re exempt to the authorities on request. This could be:

an assignment letter
employment confirmation
a contract
proof of required qualifications, such as degree and professional certificates
CV
your EU ICT permit

Further checks

If you’re not sure if you need a visa or permit to travel you can get advice from Greece’s embassy or immigration authorities.

Applying for a visa or permit

This guide outlines the steps required for each visa or permit to help you prepare, but you’ll need to check the exact rules and processes with the Greece’s embassy or immigration authorities.

Taking your family

If you have a family they will not be able to join you if you have a national visa for temporary employment. They may be able to join you under the Schengen visa waiver rules.

Your family can join you with all of the long-term residence permits in this guide. Some permits have conditions so you should check. If they’re joining you they will need to apply for a long-stay family member residence permit. In the case of the digital nomad visa, they can request an individual visa ending at the same time as the dependent visa.

Find out more about family reunification (section 5).

Visas and residence permits

You need a national visa for temporary residence if you’re:

a fisherman working for up to 11 months
a member of an artistic group working for up to 1 year
a seasonal worker working for up to 6 months
a tour guide working for up to 8 months
an athlete, coach or specialised staff preparing for an international sports event for up to 6 months
an aircraft forest firefighter working for up to 8 months
specialised staff providing technical services, such as installing, testing and maintaining supplied items, under an agreement between your UK employer and a company in Greece for up to 6 months
a digital nomad working remotely from Greece for up to 12 months

You need a long-term residence permit (for work and professional reasons) if you do not qualify for a temporary residence visa and you’re:

Long-stay permits are valid for up to 2 years depending on which one you need. They can be renewed for 3 years at a time.

National visa for temporary residence

A national visa takes 3 to 5 working days to get. It’s valid for either up to 6 months, or up to 1 year. You can not extend it.

How it works

You need to request approval from the relevant authority responsible for your profession.
You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
2 recent passport photos that meet Schengen visa photo requirements
passport with 2 blank pages, valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure date from Greece
official criminal record certificate (legalised with an apostille)
medical certificate issued by a recognised state or private doctor, showing you do not have an infectious, contagious or parasitic disease which could risk public health
travel health insurance for your entire stay which must cover the costs if you’re sent home for medical reasons, and any urgent medical care or emergency hospital care

You’ll also need the following documents for your type of work:

Seasonal workers:
- approval from the relevant decentralised administration in Greece for the seasonal work employment
- employment contract
Fishermen:
- approval from the relevant decentralised administration in Greece for employment of fishermen
- employment contract
Artistic groups:
- employment contract
- proof that you’re a member of the artistic group, such as official registration from the relevant UK organisation
Specialised staff providing technical services:
- certificate issued by your UK employer detailing the conditions of the work you will be doing in Greece
- service contract between the UK company and the Greek company detailing the service to be provided, number and qualifications of employees who will perform the service and responsibility for accommodation expenses, full medical care and their return to the UK
Tour guides:
- certificate from the regional Tourism Service in Greece approving that you will work as a leader of organised tourist groups
- employment confirmation from your UK employer
- sworn statement from the Greek tourist office that you will not be hired by them and will remain employed by your UK tourist office while in Greece
- insurance coverage for the costs of hospitalisation, medical and pharmaceutical care and occupational accidents, or proof of enrolment on social insurance in the UK that will cover this
Athletes:
- approval of the Greek federation of the sport in question for your entry into Greece in order to prepare for participation in international sports events
- evidence that you have the financial resources of 500 euros per month to cover living expenses in Greece
Aircraft forest firefighters:
- recommendation letter from the relevant Greek public authority
Digital nomads:
- statement declaring your intention to live in Greece for the purpose of providing services remotely by digital means and a commitment not to provide services to a company in Greece
- employment contract, service agreement or other proof of an employment relationship with a company outside of Greece, if you’re employed
- employment or service agreements or client contracts, if you’re freelancing
- details of your company and proof of your role or position within that company, if you’re self-employed
- documentation proving that you have access to sufficient funds, on a regular basis, of at least 3,500 euros per month (the amount is increased by 20% for an accompanying spouse and by 15% for each accompanying child under 18)

Transferring long term from a UK-based company to a branch in Greece

You need an EU intra-company transfer (EU ICT) permit if your UK-based employer moves you to a branch in Greece for:

up to 3 years
1 year if you’re a trainee

To qualify you must:

have the education and professional experience required for the role
have specialist knowledge in the field
have worked for the company in the UK for at least 12 months (or 6 months for trainees)
be a manager, specialist or trainee
keep your UK employment contract
stay on UK payroll

An EU ICT permit can take 6 to 8 weeks to get. It’s valid for 12 months. You can extend it for up to 2 years.

You have to leave Greece after living and working there for 3 years. You can only apply for a new EU ICT permit once you’ve spent 6 months outside of Greece.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate
You submit your work and residence permit application to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You submit your biometrics to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy in Greece.
You collect your residence permit from Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
documentation showing that the UK and Greek companies belong to the same group
degree or other qualification certificate
documentation issued by the UK authorities, such as the business registry, certifying the ‘good standing’ of the UK and Greek companies
copy of the articles of association for the Greek company
employment contract with the UK company
assignment agreement with the UK company
certificate issued by the UK company confirming you’ve been employed by them for more than 12 months
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Working for a company in Greece on a long-term Greek contract

If you’ve been offered a job with a company in Greece you can apply for a residence permit if you’re:

Highly skilled work for at least 1 year

To qualify for an EU Blue Card residence permit you must:

have an employment offer from a Greek company for at least 1 year
have the education and professional experience relevant to the job
meet minimum salary requirements – check with the authorities on the amount as it may change over time
be placed on Greek payroll

An EU Blue Card can take up to 8 months to get. It’s valid for up to 2 years and you can extend it. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

Your employer carries out a labour market test by applying for approval to hire you at the Greek immigration authorities. If the authorities cannot find anyone from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein to fill the role they will invite you to submit an application.
You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit your permit application to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You submit your biometrics to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy in Greece.
You collect your residence permit from Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
employment contract with the Greek company
degree or other qualification certificate or documentation proving that you have at least 5 years’ relevant work experience
labour market test approval
employment contract with the Greek company

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Unskilled ‘dependant work’ for at least 1 year

To qualify for a residence permit for dependant work you must:

have an employment offer from a Greek company for at least 1 year
be placed on a Greek payroll
earn at least the Greek minimum wage

A dependant work residence permit can take 1 to 8 weeks to get. It’s valid for up to 2 years and you can extend it for an extra 3 years. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

If you have a spouse and any children under 18 they can join you after you’ve been in Greece for at least 2 years with this permit type. Find out more about family reunification (section 5).

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

Your employer carries out a labour market test by applying for approval to hire you at the Greek immigration authorities. If the authorities cannot find anyone from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein to fill the role they will invite you to submit an application.
You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit a residence permit application to the relevant decentralised administration.
You submit your biometrics to the decentralised administration once in Greece.
You collect your permit from the decentralised administration.

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
employment contract with the Greek company
degree or other qualification certificate, or documentation proving you have at least 5 years’ relevant work experience
labour market test approval

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Board members, shareholders, legal representatives and senior executives of a company in Greece (special purpose workers)

You need this residence permit if you’re going to work for a Greek company as one of the following:

board member
shareholder
legal representative
administrator
senior executive

To qualify, you must:

have an employment offer from a Greek company, or be appointed as a member of the board of directors, or administrator of the Greek company
be placed on Greek payroll
earn a salary that’s at the same level as a similar position in Greece
have the education and professional experience relevant to the job

The Greek company must employ at least 25 people. This only applies to Greek companies. It does not apply to a subsidiary or branch of a non-Greek company.

This residence permit can take up to 8 months to get. It’s valid for up to 2 years and you can extend it. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit a residence permit application to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You submit your biometrics to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy in Greece.
You collect your residence permit from Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
the announcement in the Greek Government Gazette or Greek Commercial Registry of the incorporation of a Greek company or establishment of a subsidiary or branch, to engage in commercial activities in Greece
the company in Greece’s statute
the Greek company’s confirmation that they’ve appointed you as a board member, manager, legal representative or senior executive (general director or director)
a recent certificate on the shareholding structure of the company and a confirmation regarding the registered office of the foreign company, if not shown in the other documents
a certificate issued by the Greek Labour Authorities certifying that the Greek company employs at least 25 employees, if the company is not a subsidiary or branch of a foreign company
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Managers, business or technical executives of companies specialising in offshore exploration, drilling and extraction of hydrocarbons (special purpose workers)

To qualify for this residence permit you must:

have a signed Greek employment contract as manager, business or technical executive for a company specialising in offshore exploration, drilling and extraction of hydrocarbon
be placed on Greek payroll

This residence permit can take up to 8 months to get. It’s valid for up to 2 years and you can extend it. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

Your employer requests written confirmation from the Greek Ministry for the Environment, Energy and Climate Change that they can apply for a permit.
You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit a residence permit application to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You submit your biometrics to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy in Greece.
You collect your residence permit from Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
written confirmation from the Greek Ministry for the Environment, Energy and Climate Change that they can apply for a permit
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Mining technicians (special purpose workers)

To qualify for this residence permit you must:

have a signed Greek employment contract as a manager or technician for a mining company
have documentation proving you have the specialised skills required to work in the mining industry
be placed on Greek payroll

A special purpose residence permit can take up to 8 months to get. It’s valid for up to 2 years and you can extend it. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit your permit application to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You submit your biometrics to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy in Greece.
You collect your residence permit from Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months employment contract with the Greek company
documentation issued by the company, or its legal representative, proving that your employment to repair machinery, appliance or installation damages is urgently needed and will last for a minimum of 3 months
a certificate showing your technical and scientific knowledge – not needed if there’s a contract between a Greek company and a non-Greek company supplying the machinery and the supplier takes responsibility for installation and maintenance
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Digital nomads

To qualify for a residence permit for a digital nomad you must:

provide employment or freelance services from Greece by digital means to an employer or client based outside of Greece
meet the minimum income requirements of at least 3,500 euros per month

A digital nomad residence permit can take 4 to 8 months to get. It’s valid for 2 years and you can extend it for 2 years at a time.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit your residence permit application to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You submit your biometrics to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.
You collect your residence permit from the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
employment contract, service agreement or other proof of an employment relationship with a company outside of Greece, if you’re employed
employment contracts or service agreements with more than one employer or client, if you’re freelancing
details of your company and proof of your role or position within that company, if you’re self-employed
documentation proving that you have access to sufficient funds, on a regular basis, of at least 3,500 euros per month (the amount is increased by 20% for an accompanying spouse and by 15% for each accompanying child under 18)

You also need an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Professional sports work

To qualify for a residence permit for athletes and coaches you must:

have a signed Greek employment contract with a sports club or company in Greece
be placed on Greek payroll
have a permit from a Hellenic Sports Federation

A residence permit for athletes and coaches can take up to 8 months to get. It’s valid for up to 2 years and you can extend it. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit a  residence permit application to the relevant decentralised administration.
You submit your biometrics to the decentralised administration once in Greece.
You collect your permit from the decentralised administration.

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
employment contract with the Greek sports club or a labour contract, if it concerns a transfer with a particular sports club (AAE or TAA) in Greek
approval from the Hellenic Athletic Federation of your sport confirming that you are entitled to join the club or company or that you have the legal qualifications to coach a sport
copy of the contract for registrations or transfers to an amateur sports club
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Arts and entertainment work

You need a residence permit for intellectual creators if you’re working in the arts or entertainment industries in Greece. This includes:

writers
directors
painters and sculptors
actors
singers and other musicians
choreographers
stage designers

A residence permit for intellectual creators can take 1 to 8 weeks to get. It’s valid for up to 2 years and you can extend it. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

To qualify you must:

have a signed Greek employment contract with a company in Greece that’s involved in the creation of intellectual property products
be placed on Greek payroll

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit a residence permit application to the relevant decentralised administration.
You submit your biometrics to the decentralised administration once in Greece.
You collect your permit from decentralised administration.

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
an employment or project contract with the Greek company
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Teaching at non-Greek schools in Greece

You qualify for this residence permit if you’ve been granted permission to teach by the Greek Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs.

It can take up to 8 months to get. It’s valid for up to 2 years and you can extend it. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit a residence permit application to the relevant decentralised administration.
You submit your biometrics to the decentralised administration once in Greece.
You collect your permit from the decentralised administration.

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
an establishment and operation licence issued by the relevant department of the Greek Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs for the school
a decision issued by the relevant department of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs approving the teaching licence for the specific school year
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Press correspondents

You need this residence permit if you’re working in Greece as a foreign (non-Greek) correspondent.

The residence permit for foreign correspondents can take up to 8 months to get. It’s valid for up to 2 years and you can extend it. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit a residence permit application to the relevant decentralised administration.
You submit your biometrics to the decentralised administration once in Greece.
You collect your permit from the decentralised administration.

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
copy of your accreditation issued by the Secretariat General of Information and Communication or confirmation from them that the accreditation is in progress
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Investing in Greece

You can apply for a residence permit through the Golden Visa scheme if you’re investing in:

Investing in real estate

You qualify for a residence permit for investors if you meet minimum investment requirements.

An investor residence permit can take 2 to 4 months to get. It’s valid for up to 5 years and you can extend it as long as the investment is maintained. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You submit your residence permit application to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You submit your biometrics to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy in Greece.
You collect your residence permit from Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
documentation proving your investment (purchase contract, lease agreement)
Greek notary’s certificate, including details of the bank transfer and account numbers
certificate issued by the Greek land registry or cadastral office certifying that the property does not have any legal impediments
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)
proof that you have private medical insurance for Greece

Investing in securities or a bank deposit

To qualify for a residence permit as an investor in securities or a bank deposit you must meet minimum investment requirements.

An investor permit can take 4 to 8 weeks to get. It’s valid for up to 5 years and you can extend it provided the investment is maintained. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You submit documentation proving your investment to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You apply for a national visa  at the Greek embassy or consulate.
you submit your residence permit application to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You submit your biometrics to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy in Greece.
You collect your residence permit from Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
certification of your investment issued by the Greek Ministry for Investment and Development
proof that you have private medical insurance for Greece
birth certificates for you and any dependants (legalised with an apostille)
marriage certificate, if married (legalised with an apostille)

Research work

To qualify for a residence permit for research you must:

have a research agreement with a recognised Greek research organisation whose research has been approved by the Greek General Secretariat for Research and Innovation
meet minimum income requirements – check with the authorities as the amount may change over time A research residence permit can take 4 to 8 weeks to get. It’s valid for up to 1 year and you can extend it every year until the end of the research programme. This permit type can lead to permanent residence if you meet the criteria.

How it works

You need to check with Greece’s authorities on the exact process. This is a rough guide to help you prepare.

You apply for a national visa at the Greek embassy or consulate.
You submit your residence permit application to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy.
You submit your biometrics to the Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy in Greece.
You collect your residence permit from Greek Ministry for Migration and Asylum’s General Secretariat for Migration Policy when you get to Greece.

Application documents

Greece’s authorities may request different documents at different stages of the process. They will vary depending on your circumstances. Usually, they need:

completed application form
4 passport-standard photos
UK passport for you and any dependants, including copies of all its pages, valid for 6 months
research agreement with a recognised Greek research organisation whose research has been approved by the Greek General Secretariat for Research and Innovation
signed statement by a representative of the research organisation accepting financial responsibility for you

You also need a certificate of registration with the Greek social security authorities or an insurance certificate covering you for:

permanent total or partial disability with an annual cover amount of at least 15,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
medical expenses for a disease or accident, with an annual cover amount of at least 1,500 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)
extensive hospital care with an annual cover amount of at least 10,000 euros, with a contribution of up to 20% from you (the insured)

Greek government guidance

Read official Greek government information on residence permits.

Check for travel changes

European governments may update or change their rules without notice.

You should always check foreign travel advice for Greece, for updates on issues, such as safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings before travelling, or planning to travel.

Cookies on GOV.UK

Travel to Greece for work

Entry requirements

Visa and permit documents

Check if you need a visa or permit

Document requirements

Check Greece’s exemptions

EU intra-company transfers from other countries

Show proof of exemption

Further checks

Applying for a visa or permit

Taking your family

Visas and residence permits

National visa for temporary residence

How it works

Application documents

Transferring long term from a UK-based company to a branch in Greece

How it works

Application documents

Working for a company in Greece on a long-term Greek contract

Highly skilled work for at least 1 year

How it works

Application documents

Unskilled ‘dependant work’ for at least 1 year

How it works

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Board members, shareholders, legal representatives and senior executives of a company in Greece (special purpose workers)

How it works

Application documents

Managers, business or technical executives of companies specialising in offshore exploration, drilling and extraction of hydrocarbons (special purpose workers)

How it works

Application documents

Mining technicians (special purpose workers)

How it works

Application documents

Digital nomads

How it works

Application documents

Professional sports work

How it works

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Arts and entertainment work

How it works

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Teaching at non-Greek schools in Greece

How it works

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Press correspondents

How it works

Decentralised administrations

Application documents

Investing in Greece

Investing in real estate

How it works

Application documents

Investing in securities or a bank deposit

How it works

Application documents

Research work

How it works

Application documents

Greek government guidance

Check for travel changes

Updates to this page

Sign up for emails or print this page

Related content

Is this page useful?

Help us improve GOV.UK

Help us improve GOV.UK