Greece Digital Nomad Visa: A Gateway to Remote Work in a Mediterranean Paradise

Can I work in Greece for a US Company?

Yes, under the nomad visa, you are allowed to work remotely in Greece for a company registered abroad (non-Greek Company). Americans can apply and show proof of work relation to a US-based company or of self-employed activities (US-registered company).

Just to let you know, the company must be located abroad and not have a local Greek registration number. Under the Greek digital nomad visa you are still not allowed to work for a company in the country.

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Key Features of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa Why Choose Greece for Remote Work?

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa offers a variety of benefits tailored to remote workers and their families. Greece has been a beacon of culture, the central apex for Western society’s development.

The country has had names such as Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates, holding great developments in art, politics, and the seed of what we know today as democracy.

In recent years, the country has been achieving unprecedented economic growth, showing signs of recovery from the 2008 crisis.

According to the Economic Forecast for Greece, performed by the European Commission, this European country has ” (…) a very strong post-pandemic recovery, in 2023, real GDP growth was still high at 2%. It remains well above Greece’s long-term growth potential and the euro area average. Economic activity was driven by private consumption, that benefitted from rising real disposable incomes, by investment in construction, and by net exports, while inventories were a drag on growth.”

That said, it is quite natural that one might want to explore the perks of living and working as a digital nomad in Greece, exploring its historical intricacies, flourishing cultural scene, and the possibility of networking in a constantly expanding economy.

Among other benefits of the Greek Digital Nomad Visa are:

1. Residence Permit: The visa grants a renewable one-year residence permit, allowing visa holders to live in Greece and work remotely without restrictions.

2. Schengen Access: Visa holders can enjoy visa-free access within the 29 European countries that are part of the Schengen Area, perfect for digital nomads who may want to explore more of Europe.

3. Tax Incentives: One of the most attractive aspects of the visa is the 50% tax deductions in income tax for the first seven years of residency for new residents, making Greece an appealing tax resident choice for those looking to minimize their tax burden.

4. No Investment Required: Unlike some Golden Visa programs, there is no need to invest in property or other financial assets. Applicants need only demonstrate they have sufficient income to support themselves during their stay in Greece.

5. Family-Friendly: The visa allows the primary applicant to include their spouse and dependent children under 21 years old, making it a great option for families looking to relocate.

6.Path to Permanent Residency Permit: After 5 Years under the Greece digital nomad visa, you are allowed to apply for Permanent Residency in Greece. This is certainly a differential from the other nomad visas, once it gives applicants a route to PR in Europe.

7. Path to Citizenship: After seven years of Permanent Residency, applicants can request for Greek citizenship, providing a long-term opportunity for those wishing to settle in Europe.

It takes a lifetime to discover Greece, but it only takes an instant to fall in love with her- Henry Miller (Author).

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Greece Digital Nomad Visa Application Requirements

How To Qualify for the Greek Nomad Visa?

To qualify for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

– Be a non-EU citizen.

– Hold a valid passport.

– Provide proof of remote employment with a minimum monthly income of €3,500. For applicants with a spouse or dependents, additional income is required.

– Possess health insurance coverage valid in Greece.

– Submit proof of a clean criminal record and medical certificates showing good health.

Can I Bring My Family Under the Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, you can include family members in your digital nomad visa application. However, note that the minimum income criteria raise 20% for a Spouse and 15% for each dependent child. Let’s say you wish to include a Spouse and 2 minor dependents, this would be an additional €700,00 (20%) + € 525,00 (15%) x 2 = € 5250,00.

Minimum Income Threshold:

• Main Applicant: € 3,500
• Main Applicant & Spouse: € 4,200
• Main Applicant, Spouse & 1 Dependent: € 4, 725

Greece Digital Nomad Visa Fee

Like other European countries, Greece also charges an application fee for those requesting a digital nomad visa. The Greek digital nomad visa fee is €75,00. This is the cost for the application process, paid to the Greek consulate as a service fee, so you will not get a refund in case your application is rejected.

The administration fee is of €150,00. If you are applying with your family, an extra amount will be charged.

Consult our team for a full cost breakdown for the Greece digital nomad visa.

Is Greece Good for Digital Nomads?

Greece is extremely attractive to relocate to as a digital nomad. The country boasts life, breathtaking landscapes, excellent cuisine, and a thriving community of expats. The country is welcoming digital nomads with “arms open”. Under the Greece Digital Nomad visa, you will be able to explore the mainland and the 6.000 islands that are part of this country.

Greece also offers reliable internet infrastructure, coworking spaces, and an excellent quality of life, with access to vibrant cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as tranquil islands like Crete and Santorini. For those seeking a blend of work and adventure, Greece is a top choice.

If you wish to meet other expats working as a digital nomad in Greece, we recommend checking out the facebook groups by clicking here.

Greece Digital Nomad Visa Required Documentation

See below a list of all the documents you will need to start your Greece Digital Nomad Visa application:

• Proof of monthly income of at least €3,500 per month from a remote occupation (remote work or self-employed). Essential to prove your status as a digital nomad.
• Proof of financial means, this includes: Bank Statements from at least the past 3 months.Employment Contract or – in case you own a company registered outside of Greece (Self-Employed), you must submit the following:
• Company’s license or registration number;
• The Business activity your company performs;
• Other relevant documentation that proves you are the owner of this company and can perform the activities remotely.
• A Declaration Letter stating that you will not work for a Greek-registered company while living in the country under the nomad visa.
• Rental Agreement in Greece.
• Proof of Payment of Administration Fee.
• Clean Criminal Record Certificate.
• Health Insurance Medical Certificate.

The Application Process

Step-by-Step Application Process for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa How to Get Your Visa

Okay, now that you have understood the main eligibility criteria and the benefits of the digital nomad residence permit in Greece, it is time to roll up your sleeves and start the application process.

The application for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is straightforward.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

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Step 1: Initial consultation with Lincoln Global Partners

During our consultation we will discuss your specific case to understand your needs, present to you how the Greece Digital Nomad visa works, elaborating on the process and the required routes to achieve your Residency goals.

Step 2: Secure Accomodation

Before applying, you will need to secure a rental agreement or proof of accommodation in Greece.

This will be part of your application to show where you will be staying during your time in the country.

Step 3: Gather Your Documents

Applicants must collect their passport, proof of income, health insurance, and other necessary documents.

Step 4: Book an appointment with a relevant Greek Consulate

The first step is applying for a long-term visa (Visa D) at the Greek consulate in your home country. This serves as an entry visa and it is a crucial part of the process. The Greek government normally takes up to 30 days to process this request, if all documentation is in perfect order.

Step 5: Pay the visa application fee

Pay the required visa application fee (€225).

Step 6:Enter Greece and Apply for a Residence Permit

After entering Greece, the applicant must submit an application for a residence permit at the Ministry of Immigration. This includes submitting biometric data and providing further proof of income and insurance.The Application Process

Receive Residence Permit: Greece Digital Nomad Residence Permit

Within two to three weeks, applicants will receive their residence permit, valid for up to two years, after which it can be renewed.

After 5 years, applicants can request Permanent Residency and, after 7 years of Permanent Residence, one becomes eligible for citizenship.

Best Places to Live in Greece for Digital Nomads

Greece offers a wide array of picturesque locations that are ideal for digital nomads. Spending more than a year in these variety of greek cities (between island and mainland) will definetly be a life changing experience to a digital nomad. Here are some of the best places to consider:

1. Athens: The capital city is a top choice for digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, thriving coworking spaces, and historical attractions. Athens also has excellent internet connectivity and easy access to international flights, making it a convenient hub for those who frequently travel. The constantly growing digital nomad community is also a plus for this capital.

2. Thessaloniki: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and rich history, Thessaloniki offers a slower pace of life compared to Athens, while still providing the amenities of a large city. Its affordable cost of living and beautiful waterfront make it a popular destination.

3. Crete: Greece’s largest island, Crete, offers a mix of city life and natural beauty. From the historic city of Heraklion to the scenic beaches and mountains, Crete is perfect for those who want a balance of work and outdoor adventure.

4. Rhodes: Famous for its medieval old town and stunning coastline, Rhodes is an excellent choice for digital nomads looking for island life with modern conveniences.

5. Santorini: Known for its iconic blue-domed churches and breathtaking sunsets, Santorini is one of Greece’s most beautiful islands. While it can be more expensive than other locations, its beauty and relaxed lifestyle are unmatched.

6. Naxos: For those seeking a more quiet and less touristy island experience, Naxos is an ideal spot. It combines traditional Greek culture with stunning beaches and affordable living options.

What is the Cost of Living in Greece?

The cost of living in Greece is relatively affordable compared to many Western European countries, making it an attractive option for those under the Greece digital nomad visa.

Monthly expenses vary depending on the city or island, but overall, Greece offers great value. In Athens, the capital, you can expect to pay around €600-€900 per month for rent in a central apartment, while in smaller cities like Thessaloniki or on islands like Crete, rental costs are even lower. Groceries, dining out, and transportation are also reasonably priced, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing about €10-€15.

A single person’s estimated cost of living in Greece, without rent, is of € 807,50.

Combined with Greece’s high quality of life, this affordability makes the country a great destination for remote workers looking to balance work and leisure.

Do Digital Nomads Pay Income Tax in Greece? Understand the Greek Tax Deductions

If you are staying over 183 days in Greece, you are considered a tax resident. That said, Greece offers special tax benefits for residents for the first 7 years of residency permit.

To attract tax residents in Greece and further to the special tax regimes which have already been introduced (e.g. High Net Worth Individuals and Foreign Pensioners), a special regime of alternative taxation for individuals who transfer their tax residence in Greece is introduced as of tax year 2021.

See below the special conditions for those considering to pay tax in Greece.

The conditions which must be cumulatively met in order to qualify for the special regime:

(a) the individual was not Greek tax residents for the five (5) out of the last six (6) years preceding the transfer of their tax residence to Greece,

(b) they transfer their tax residence from a member country of the E.U. or the E.E.A. or from a country with which Greece has an agreement in force for administrative cooperation in tax matters,

(c) they provide services in Greece based on an employment contract with a Greek legal entity or a foreign legal entity with a permanent establishment in Greece,

(d) they declare their intention to stay in Greece for at least two (2) years.

Does a Greece Digital Nomad Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?

After 5 years of residing in Greece, one can apply for the Permanent Residence Permit. This makes the Greece Digital Nomad visa an attractive route for those looking for a long-term residency solution in Europe.

Can I Apply for a Greece Digital Nomad Visa Online?

It is currently not possible to apply remotely for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa. Within Greece you can apply at the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum. Outside Greece you can apply at your closest Greek Embassy or Consulate.

Other Residency Options In Greece

If the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is not the perfect route for you, don’t worry. There are other options you can explore to enjoy the perks of being a Greek Resident.

Greece Golden Visa

One of the most attractive golden visa programs worldwide, and about to take the number one spot in Europe. The Greece Golden Visa program has the lowest qualifying minimum among European Golden Visa programs, there is no stay requirement to obtain Greek permanent residency and citizenship can be obtained in seven years.

Since its start, the Greek Golden Visa investment program has undergone several changes. The most recent change came in early 2024, when the Greek government announced that there are now 3 Tiers of Investments, starting from 250,000 EUR, for certain qualifying properties and going up to 800,000 EUR for standard property investments in Greece’s hot spots.

Greece FIP Visa

The Greece FIP visa, otherwise known as the Greece Retirement Visa is a temporary residency permit that is designed to attract non-EU nationals with adequate fixed income to live in Greece along with their eligible dependents. This is a relatively simple and easy route to a residence permit in Greece.

To qualify, the primary applicant must have monthly income of €3,500. Including the spouse requires additional 20% or €700 per month while each dependent child will require an additional 15% or €525.

Get Help Applying for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa

You do not need to struggle to apply for your nomad visa alone. Our team of experts at Lincoln Global Partners offers a full-coverage service, assisting you from deciding which program is the best fit for your relocation goals until completing all the stages of the application process. You can contact our team now for a free consultation.

Why Choose the Greece Digital Nomad Visa?

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa provides a unique opportunity to live and work in one of Europe’s most beautiful and historically significant countries. Whether you’re drawn by the warm Mediterranean climate, the low cost of living, or the chance to explore Greece’s ancient ruins, this visa allows you to immerse yourself in Greek life while maintaining your professional career. With the added benefit of tax incentives and a path to citizenship, it’s no wonder that Greece is becoming a top destination for digital nomads worldwide.

In conclusion, the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is not only an excellent way to experience Greece, but it also offers significant financial and lifestyle benefits for remote workers. Whether you prefer the energy of a bustling city or the tranquility of island life, Greece has something for every digital nomad.

You do not need to go through the struggle of applying for your nomad visa alone. Our team of experts at Lincoln Global Partners offers a full-coverage service, assisting you from deciding which program is the best fit for your relocation goals until completing all the stages of the application process. Contact our team now for a free consultation.

Apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa with Lincoln Global Partners

Lincoln Global Partners, an international investment migration firm is ready to assist you every step of the way with your Investor Visa application in Greece.

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Greece Digital Nomad : Frequently asked Questions

Checkout our FAQ's or reach out to us directly via the contact form at the bottom of the page with further questions.Does Greece Have a Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, Greece released its digital nomad visa in 2021.

What Is the minimum income threshold to apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa?

One must showcase a minimum income of at least €3,500 per month from a remote occupation (remote work or self-employed).

Can I live in Greece and work remotely for a US company?

Yes, as a Digital Nomad you are required to work remotely to a company registered outside of Greece. This includes the United States of America.

How Long is the Greek Digital Nomad Visa Valid For?

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa is valid for 2 years and it can be renewed, as long the eligibility criteria is met.

Where are the greece digital nomad visa applications submitted?

The applications for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa are submitted at the nearest Greek embassy.

What is the difference between a tourist visa and a Type D Visa?

The tourist visa allows you to stay at least 90 days in the country, with the sole purpose of visit. The Type D visa allows you a long-term residency permit for a period from 90 days up to 365 days (1 year).

Can I include family members under the nomad visa?

Yes, you can include dependents. An additional on the minimum monthly income is required. For Spouse, an additional of EUR 700,00 (20%) is required. For each additional dependent under the age of 21, an additional of EUR 525,00 (15%).

What is the age limit for dependents?

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa allows dependents until 21 years old.

What if I don't qualify for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa?

If you do not meet the eligibility criteria, there are other options you can explore. Either browse through the other Residency options in Greece such as the Greece Golden Visa or the Greece FIP Visa, or, if you are still keen on the digital nomad, explore the other digital nomad visas available.

What is the Greece Golden Visa?

The Greece Golden Visa is a residency by investment option in Greece for those seeking a Permanent Residence Permit in the country. It can be obtained by investing at least €250,000 in the country.

Do Digital Nomads have to pay tax in Greece with the digital nomad visa?

Yes, if you are staying more than 183 days in Greece, you will become a tax resident. Consult our team for more information on your tax residency in Greece.

What should I do if my visa application is delayed or rejected?

If your application is delayed or rejected, consult with an immigration attorney who can help address any issues and guide you through the appeals process or reapplication.

Which Greek Island has a Digital Nomad Visa?

All Greek territory is covered by the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, including the islands.

What is the Declaration Letter when applying for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa?

This a document to prove your intent to work remotely in Greece and confirming that you will NOT work for a locally registered company.