Greece — Complete Emigration Guide 2026
10,407,351 people · Capital: Athens · Southern Europe
Your complete guide to emigrating to Greece in 2026
Overview
Greece stands out as an emigration destination thanks to its favourable climate, excellent healthcare system, and high safety standards. Located in Europe with a population of 10,407,351, it attracts a growing international community of workers, families, and retirees seeking a new life abroad.
Scores based on our 5-dimension scoring model. Data
Visa Pathways (12)
| Programme | Type | Min Income | Investment | Processing | Citizenship |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EU Blue Card Greece | Skilled Worker Visa | — | — | 60d | — |
| Family Reunification Visa - Spouse | Family Reunion | — | — | 60d | — |
| Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa | Retirement Visa | €1,400/mo | — | 30d | 7y |
| General Employment Visa | Skilled Worker Visa | €800/mo | — | 60d | 7y |
| Golden Visa | Investor / Golden Visa | €2,778/mo | €50,000 | 90d | — |
| Greece Digital Nomad Visa | Digital Nomad Visa | €3,500/mo | — | 30d | 7y |
| Greece Golden Visa - Real Estate Investment | Investor / Golden Visa | — | €250,000 | 180d | 7y |
| Greece Startup Visa | Entrepreneur Visa | — | €250,000 | 180d | 7y |
| Greece Work Permit (Type D Visa) | Skilled Worker Visa | €1,633/mo | — | 60d | — |
| Intra-Company Transfer | Intra-Company Transfer | €1,000/mo | — | 45d | 7y |
| Seasonal Worker Visa | Seasonal Worker | €800/mo | — | 14d | — |
| Self-Employment Permit | Freelance Visa | €1,000/mo | — | 60d | 7y |
Cost of Living
| Item | Greece | W. Europe Avg | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | €520 | €1,200 | -57% |
| Rent (3BR) | €750 | €2,000 | -62% |
| Groceries | €180 | €350 | -49% |
| Transport | €30 | €80 | -62% |
| Utilities | €75 | €150 | -50% |
| Dining (meal) | €8 | €15 | -47% |
Salary & Employment
| Sector | Entry | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| construction | €14,500 | €21,000 | €29,500 |
| education | €13,500 | €19,000 | €26,500 |
| engineering | €19,500 | €28,000 | €39,000 |
| finance | €22,500 | €32,000 | €45,000 |
| healthcare | €12,000 | €18,000 | €28,000 |
| hospitality | €10,000 | €14,000 | €19,500 |
| it | €15,000 | €22,000 | €35,000 |
| retail | €10,500 | €15,000 | €21,000 |
Shortage Occupations
- Software Developer (IT)
- Registered Nurse (Healthcare)
- Construction Manager (Construction)
- Civil Engineer (Engineering)
Tax
Requires legal source verification
Healthcare
Education
| University | QS Rank | English Progs | Tuition (Intl) |
|---|---|---|---|
| National and Kapodistrian University of Athens | 311 | 42 | €1,500 |
| Aristotle University of Thessaloniki | 501 | 38 | €1,500 |
| University of Patras | — | 28 | €1,500 |
| Athens University of Economics and Business | — | 35 | €2,000 |
| National Technical University of Athens | — | 31 | €1,800 |
Practical Info
Banking
Driving
Phone & Internet
Credentials
Quality of Life
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Greek Non-Dom tax regime?
Greece's Non-Domicile regime allows qualifying individuals to pay a flat 7% tax on all foreign-sourced income, regardless of amount. To qualify, you must invest at least EUR 500,000 in Greek real estate, financial assets, or business. The regime lasts 15 years. Greek-sourced income is taxed at standard rates.
Does Greece have a Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes. Greece's Digital Nomad Visa requires proof of remote employment with a non-Greek employer, minimum monthly income of EUR 3,500 (EUR 4,200 with spouse, plus EUR 700 per child), and health insurance. The visa is valid for 2 years and renewable. You can apply from within Greece or at a Greek consulate.
What is the Greek Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa grants 5-year renewable residency through real estate investment. The threshold is EUR 250,000 in most areas, but EUR 500,000 in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini. It does not grant work rights but provides Schengen travel and a path to permanent residency and citizenship.
How affordable is Greece?
Greece is one of the most affordable countries in the EU. A single person can live comfortably in Athens on EUR 1,100-1,500/month, in Thessaloniki on EUR 900-1,200/month, and on the islands on EUR 800-1,200/month (variable by season). Dining out is exceptional value at EUR 8-15 per meal.
How long until I can get Greek citizenship?
Standard naturalisation requires 7 years of continuous residence, Greek language proficiency (B1 level), and passing a citizenship exam on Greek history, culture, and geography. EU citizens may qualify after 7 years with fewer requirements. Ethnic Greeks and spouses of Greek citizens can apply after 3 years. Dual citizenship is permitted.
Start Preparing for Greece
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