Greece is a land that almost everyone knows. The place needs no introduction as it is one of the top tourist destinations filled with picturesque places and delicious food spots.
For the digital nomads, here’s good news. Greece has recently launched the Digital Nomad Visa, and it’s actually beneficial for those who would like to work from Greece, take time and explore what the city has to offer.
Here’s everything you need to know about Greece’s new Digital Nomad Visa.
Wondering if you need a visa for Greece? Check on iVisa.
What Is The Greece Digital Nomad Visa?
The Digital Nomad Visa, also known as Greece Remote Work Visa or Greece Nomad Visa, now allows people to work and live in Greece.
So basically, if you are an entrepreneur, a freelancer, self-employed, or a remote worker, you can move to Greece and work from here.
The Digital Nomad Visa was made a reality by the Greece government in expectation of permanent investors and expats in Greece, thus aiming to give a significant boost to the country’s GDP.
Launched in September 2021, the visa allows remote workers to stay in the country for 12 months. To apply, you will have to fill out the application and submit the required documents for the Type D, Greece National Visa. Don’t worry; everything is explained in detail below.
Who Is Eligible To Apply For The Greece Digital Nomad Visa
For you to apply and get a successful response for the Digital Nomad Visa that Greece offers, you will have to meet the following criteria:
- You must be working for/employee of a country/client based out of Greece
- For the successful completion of the work requirements, all you need should be your laptop and wifi (basically anything that comes under information and communication technology).
- You won’t be allowed to work for a company that is registered in Greece.
- If you fall under the category of self-employed, then the following proofs have to be submitted along with the application to prove your business is legit:
- Recent business activities
- Your mission, vision, and purpose (corporate purpose)
- Current business address (this cannot be in Greece)
- You must be able to complete your work and related requirements entirely remotely.
Even if you meet the above conditions, not everyone can apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa. For that, you have to be a national of a third country. Thus, the visa is a no for the nationals of the European Union.
Along with the nationals of the European Union, the citizens of the Schengen Area and the European Economic Area (EEA) cannot also apply for this visa.
The citizens of the countries mentioned above can move to Greece without requiring a Digital Nomad Visa.
Greece Digital Nomad Visa Application Process
Here’s an overview of the digital nomad visa application process.
Documents
The following documents are mandatory:
A Declaration Letter
The letter should include why you plan to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, a statement that assures that you won’t work for a company officially registered in Greece, the proof of your financial statement, and the details about your remote employment.
Proof Of Employment
This is simply a letter stating that you are employed outside of Greece issued by your current employer. They should also mention that you can successfully complete all your work requirements using information and communications technology alone.
Financial proof
This proof shows that you are financially independent. This could be your salary certificate, a statement of your bank account, or any other document that specifically states that you have the required monthly funds to live comfortably in Greece.
You should have €3,500 as monthly income after all the tax deductions. If you were to accommodate a dependent, and if it’s your spouse, add 20% to the monthly income and if it’s your kid, add 15% to it.
Other Documents
Other documents for the application form:
- A valid passport
- Two passport-size photocopies
- Proof of your accommodation in Greece
- Proof of travel insurance
- A criminal record certificate from your home country stating you are no threat to any civilians
- A medical certificate stating you are fit
- Current Covid-19 requirements to be followed
How Long Can You Stay In Greece With The Digital Nomad Visa
First, the digital nomad visa is issued for 12 months.
You can apply for an additional year if you want to extend your stay after that. So in total, you can stay for around 2 years in Greece using the digital nomad visa.
How To Apply For The Greece Digital Nomad Visa
The application process varies depending on the location you are currently in.
If you are in Greece currently, you can apply directly at the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum. While doing so, ensure that the visa you used to enter Greece is still valid and has not expired.
If it has expired, you aren’t allowed to extend your stay in Greece, and therefore, you will get a rejection for your Digital Nomad Visa application.
If you are in any other country other than Greece, then visit the Greece Consulate or Embassy in that particular country and apply for the Digital Nomad Visa. If it’s not your home country you are applying from, then you might have to show some extra documents apart from the ones mentioned above.
Don’t forget to make an appointment at the consulate and enquire beforehand before you decide to show up in person. This way, you can prepare and won’t have to have a second visit to the consulate or embassy just for the paperwork.
The application fee for the Digital Nomad Visa is €75. The fee is essential for the processing of the paper works you submitted. So, in case your application is rejected or results in a failure, you won’t be getting a refund. If you want to apply again, you will have to pay €75 again.
Once you have applied, you will receive feedback on whether it’s successful or not within 10 days. The time taken to issue the Digital nomad Visa varies from embassy to embassy. Therefore, expect one month to get your whole visa process sorted out.
And that’s detailed and crisp info on how to get your hands on your Digital Nomad Visa. Count at least 5 weeks to get your visa, and then keep this in your mind and plan the rest of your trip. This way, even if it takes a month, you can comfortably pack for Greece without any stress.
Best Places To Live In Greece For Digital Nomads
Greece is an excellent country for digital nomads. It has a lot of beautiful places where you can work and live comfortably. Here are some of the best places in Greece for digital nomads.
Athens
The capital city of Greece, Athens is a beautiful place to live in and work as a digital nomad. It has a lot of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants where you can work from. The city also has a lot of historical places that you can visit in your free time.
Thessaloniki
The second-largest city in Greece, Thessaloniki is a great place for digital nomads. It has many of the same infrastructures as Athens, but it’s much cheaper to live here. And, of course, there are the beaches. If you’re looking for a laid-back vibe with great food and plenty of sun, Thessaloniki is the place for you.
Chania
If you want to live by the beach, then Chania is the place for you. It’s a small city on the island of Crete with a lot of character. The old town is particularly lovely, and there are plenty of good places to work from as well. Just be prepared for the tourist hordes in peak season.
Oia
If you’re looking for a place that’s both beautiful and quiet, then Oia is the place for you. It’s a small village on the island of Santorini with stunning views of the caldera. The only downside is that it can be quite expensive to live here.
Cost Of Living In Greece
The cost of living in Greece is quite reasonable, especially if you compare it to other European Western countries. Although, it’s slightly more expensive if you compare it to the surrounding countries like Bulgaria, or Serbia.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre of Athens is more expensive than in Thessaloniki. That said, if you rent an apartment for 12 months, you’ll find better deals.
You could find an apartment in Athens for anything between EUR 450 and 1000, depending on your needs, apartment size, and area.
Food is reasonably priced in Greece. A meal at a mid-range restaurant cost around €20 for two people.
Keep in mind that the location will influence the cost of living. For example, Santorini is going to be more expensive than Thessaloniki.
The best way to save money in Greece is by cooking your meals at home. This is especially true if you live in Athens or any other big city. The cost of groceries is cheaper than eating out, and you’ll be able to save a lot of money this way.
Final Thoughts On Digital Nomads In Greece
Greece is a great country for digital nomads. It has a lot to offer in terms of infrastructure, food, and culture. And, it’s much cheaper to live here than in other Western European countries.
If you’re thinking of becoming a digital nomad, Greece is definitely a place you should consider. Just be prepared for the visa process, which can be a bit of a hassle. Besides that, Greece is an excellent place to live and work as a digital nomad.
Not sure if Greece is the right destination for you? Read one of the following guides:
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