Blogs • September 5, 2025 • 13 Min

Your Complete Guide to the Greece Digital Nomad Visa in 2025

Greece has become one of the most appealing destinations for remote professionals seeking both lifestyle and mobility. Since 2021, the country has offered a “Digital Nomad Visa” option, though technically it is not a standalone visa but a category within Greece’s long-stay (D-type) visa framework. This legal pathway allows non-EU/EEA citizens to live in Greece while working remotely for a foreign employer or running an online business. The permit initially grants up to 12 months of stay, with the possibility of extending into a two-year residence permit, renewable every two years if the requirements continue to be met. For many, this visa is a gateway to experiencing Greece’s Mediterranean lifestyle while maintaining global work commitments. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Greece Digital Nomad Visa in 2025, from requirements and application steps to taxation, lifestyle considerations, and long-term residency options. Overview of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa The “Greece Digital Nomad Visa” was introduced in 2021 as part of the country’s efforts to attract remote professionals. It is officially classified as a national long-stay visa (type D), with “digital nomad” being one of the eligible categories. This means applicants do not need a Greek employer, but they must show that they work for a company abroad, are self-employed with clients outside Greece, or operate an online business registered outside the country. Duration and Validity The initial visa is issued for up to 12 months. Once in Greece, holders may apply for a Residence Permit, valid for two years and renewable in two-year increments. Family members (spouse and dependents) can be included, provided additional income thresholds are met. Purpose and Context The main aim of this program is to position Greece as a competitive destination in the global remote work economy. With its lower cost of living compared to Western Europe, mild climate, and Schengen membership, Greece offers a blend of affordability and mobility. Main Benefits at a Glance Legally live in Greece while working for a non-Greek employer or running an online business. Access to the Schengen Area for short-term travel across 29 European countries. Opportunity to transition to long-term residency if you maintain eligibility. Option to bring immediate family members under the same visa scheme. Key Benefits of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa Tax Advantages 1. Non-Dom Regime It applies to high-net-worth individuals transferring their tax residency to Greece, provided they invest at least €500,000 in Greece. You pay a flat €100,000 tax per year on foreign-sourced income (regardless of how much they earn). It lasts for up to 15 years. You can extend coverage to relatives for €20,000 per person annually. It’s essentially designed to attract wealthy investors, not ordinary remote workers. 2. 50% Income Tax Reduction This is a separate incentive from the “non-dom” scheme, sometimes incorrectly referred to as a non-dom benefit. It was introduced to attract professionals, freelancers, and employees relocating to Greece. Individuals transferring their tax residency to Greece can exempt 50% of their employment or business income from Greek taxation. It applies for up to 7 years. To qualify, you must not have been Greek tax residents in 5 of the last 6 years and commit to staying in Greece for at least 2 years. Lifestyle Opportunities Greece offers a mix of Mediterranean lifestyle, affordable living costs, and rich cultural heritage. Compared to Western Europe, everyday expenses, such as rent, dining, and local transportation are significantly lower. This makes it possible for remote workers to enjoy a high quality of life without stretching their income. Access to Schengen Area Since Greece is part of the Schengen Zone, visa holders can travel freely across 29 European countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This flexibility makes Greece not only a home base but also a gateway for exploring Europe without needing additional visas. Path to Residency Options While the “Digital Nomad Visa” itself is temporary, it can be converted into a Residence Permit, valid for two years and renewable. With continuous residency, applicants may later qualify for long-term residence or even Greek citizenship, provided they meet language, integration, and residence duration requirements. Requirements for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa To qualify for Greece’s “Digital Nomad Visa”, applicants must meet financial, professional, and personal criteria that demonstrate they can sustain themselves while living in the country. Income Requirements Applicants must show proof of a minimum monthly income of €3,500 after taxes. The threshold increases with dependents: €4,200 for applicants with a spouse. €4,830 for applicants with children. Proof can include pay slips, bank statements, contracts, or evidence of business income. Employment Status Verification You must demonstrate that you are employed by a foreign company, self-employed with foreign clients, or operating your own online business registered outside Greece. A declaration letter is also required, confirming you will not work for a Greek employer during your stay. Health Insurance Coverage Comprehensive health insurance valid in Greece is mandatory. It must cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay. Accommodation Proof Applicants need to provide proof of accommodation, such as a rental contract, hotel booking, or property ownership documents. This ensures you have a place to reside upon arrival. Background Check Requirements A clean criminal record from your country of residence is required. This document must be recent and, in many cases, officially translated into Greek or English. How to Apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa Applying for the “Greece Digital Nomad Visa” involves submitting documentation either through a Greek consulate or embassy abroad. Application Process Steps Book an appointment with the nearest Greek embassy or consulate ). Prepare your documentation, including proof of income, employment status, health insurance, and accommodation. Complete the visa application form (type D visa application). Submit your application in person at the embassy or consulate. Pay the application fees as instructed. Attend an interview if required by the embassy. Wait for approval and receive your visa. Apply for a residence permit in Greece within the first 12 months if you want to extend your stay. Required Documentation Valid passport (with at least three months’ validity beyond your intended stay) Completed visa application form Proof of remote employment, self-employment, or business ownership abroad Proof of sufficient monthly income Proof of comprehensive health insurance Clean criminal background check Proof of accommodation in Greece Declaration letter stating you will not work for a Greek employer Payment receipt for visa application fees Processing Time Processing typically takes 2–6 weeks depending on the consulate and the completeness of your documents. If converting to a residence permit inside Greece, expect 1–3 months for approval from the Ministry of Migration and Asylum. Visa Fees and Costs Visa application fee: €75–€180 (depending on the consulate) Residence permit fee: €1,000 Administrative fee for dependents: €150 per family member Additional costs may include translation and legalization of documents, as well as private health insurance premiums. Living as a Digital Nomad in Greece Beyond the visa, life in Greece offers remote workers an affordable lifestyle, reliable infrastructure, and access to welcoming communities. Best Cities for Remote Workers Athens The capital offers the largest number of coworking spaces, vibrant nightlife, and strong expat networks. Ideal for those who prefer an urban setting. Thessaloniki Greece’s second city is more laid back, with a lower cost of living, cultural events, and a growing digital nomad community. Heraklion (Crete) A balance of city amenities and Mediterranean beaches. Great for nomads who want island life with strong infrastructure. Chania (Crete) Known for its old town charm, relaxed pace, and active expat scene. Rhodes & Corfu Both islands attract nomads looking for a quieter setting surrounded by history and nature. Cost of Living Overview Greece remains more affordable than many Western European countries: Rent: €507–€575/month for a one-bedroom apartment in Athens, lower in smaller cities Utilities & Internet: Around €186/month Groceries & Dining: €217.25 Transport: Public transit in Athens starts at €30/month for unlimited passes A single digital nomad can comfortably live in Greece for €1,200–€1,800/month, depending on location and lifestyle. Internet Infrastructure Internet access is reliable in major cities and most islands, with average speeds of 50–100 Mbps. Mobile data packages are affordable, and 5G coverage is expanding in urban areas. Co-working Spaces Greece has seen a steady rise in coworking hubs, especially in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete. Popular spaces include: Impact Hub Athens – A central community hub Coho Thessaloniki – Affordable and central Stone Soup (Athens) – Flexible memberships for remote workers Island-based coworking is also emerging, combining seaside living with digital connectivity Financial Considerations Living and working remotely in Greece also requires planning around finances, taxes, and daily transactions. Banking Requirements While you are not required to open a Greek bank account for the visa itself, many nomads find it practical once they obtain a residence permit. A local account makes it easier to pay rent, utilities, and access local services. Most major banks require: Proof of residence (rental contract or utility bill) Residence permit or long-stay visa Tax Identification Number (AFM), which can be obtained from the Greek tax office Tax Implications Short-term stays (under 183 days/year): You are not considered a Greek tax resident and remain taxed in your home country Longer stays (183+ days): You may become a Greek tax resident, which means worldwide income is subject to Greek taxation Non-dom regime: Eligible newcomers may benefit from a 50% reduction on income tax for up to seven years if they transfer their tax residency Currency and Payment Methods Greece uses the euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, especially Visa and Mastercard, but cash is still commonly used, particularly in smaller towns and islands. Digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also available Local Financial Setup AFM (Greek tax number): Required for most financial transactions, including property rental contracts, bank accounts, and utility services Insurance & healthcare payments: Often handled through direct debit if you have a local bank account Invoicing abroad: Freelancers and entrepreneurs must continue invoicing clients outside Greece, as local work is not permitted under this visa Extended Stay Options The “Greece Digital Nomad Visa” starts as a temporary stay permit, but there are ways to extend your time in the country if you wish to settle longer. Visa Renewal Process The initial visa is valid for up to 12 months. Before it expires, you can apply for a Residence Permit in Greece. The residence permit is granted for two years and can be renewed for successive two-year periods, provided requirements continue to be met. Long-term Residency Possibilities Continuous legal residence in Greece for five years may make you eligible for a long-term EU residence permit. This status provides greater security and freedom of movement within the EU compared to a temporary visa. Path to Permanent Residence After seven years of continuous residence in Greece, you may apply for Greek citizenship if you meet integration, language, and civic knowledge requirements. Citizenship grants full EU rights, including the ability to live and work across all EU member states. Life in Greece for Digital Nomads Living in Greece is not only about work, but also about adapting to the local lifestyle, accessing essential services, and enjoying the cultural richness of the country. Healthcare System Access Greece has a mixed public and private healthcare system. Digital nomads with private health insurance are usually covered through private hospitals and clinics, which are widely available in major cities. The quality of care is good, with many doctors speaking English, especially in urban and tourist-heavy areas Transportation Options Public transportation is affordable and reliable in Athens and Thessaloniki, with metro, tram, and bus networks. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available in larger cities. On the islands, transportation often relies on buses, rental cars, or scooters, making it useful to budget for local mobility Cultural Integration Greeks are generally welcoming, and expat communities are present in most major cities and islands. Local customs emphasize hospitality, social gatherings, and family life. Engaging with local events, traditions, and cuisine makes integration easier and enriches the nomad experience. Language Requirements Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in larger cities, tourist destinations, and among younger generations. Basic knowledge of Greek can be very helpful when dealing with bureaucracy, renting accommodation, or integrating into local communities. Comparing Greece Digital Nomad Visa Greece is not the only European country offering a digital nomad pathway. Understanding how it compares helps applicants decide whether it is the best fit. Other European Digital Nomad Visas Portugal offers a temporary stay visa and residence permit for remote workers with a monthly income requirement of €3,480. Spain launched its digital nomad visa in 2023, with a lower income threshold of around €2,763 per month and the possibility of obtaining residency. Croatia’s digital nomad permit allows a one-year stay without taxation on foreign income if you remain a non-resident. Malta was among the first to launch a digital nomad visa, valid for one year with a monthly income requirement of €3,500. Read more about the best digital nomad visas in Europe in our dedicated guide. Alternative Options The Greece Golden Visa remains a popular choice for investors seeking residency through real estate, with a minimum property investment of €250,000 (increasing in some areas). Tips for a Successful Application Applying for the “Greece Digital Nomad Visa” requires careful preparation to avoid delays or rejections. Common Mistakes to Avoid Submitting incomplete or incorrectly translated documents. Not meeting the minimum income threshold before applying. Applying too close to the intended travel date, leaving no time for processing. Documentation Preparation Ensure all documents are translated into Greek or English where required. Keep digital and hard copies of contracts, bank statements, and health insurance policies. Have your criminal record certificate issued recently, as older documents may not be accepted. Timeline Planning Book your consulate appointment well in advance, as wait times can be long in some countries. Allow at least two to three months from preparation to visa issuance before planning your move. If you plan to switch to a residence permit, prepare for an additional one to three months of processing time inside Greece. FAQs on the Greece Digital Nomad Visa Does Greece really have a Digital Nomad Visa? Yes, but technically it is not a standalone visa. It is a category under Greece’s national long-stay (type D) visa. Applicants can apply as “digital nomads” if they work for a foreign employer, run their own business abroad, or freelance for non-Greek clients. How long can I stay in Greece with this visa? The initial visa is valid for up to 12 months. After that, you can apply for a Residence Permit inside Greece, which is valid for two years and renewable for additional two-year periods. What are the minimum income requirements? You must earn at least €3,500 per month after taxes. The amount increases to €4,200 if you bring a spouse and €4,830 if you bring children. Proof of income is required through payslips, contracts, or bank statements. Do I need to pay taxes in Greece as a digital nomad? If you stay fewer than 183 days in a year, you remain a tax resident of your home country. If you stay longer, you may become a Greek tax resident. In that case, you could qualify for a 50% income tax reduction for up to seven years under Greece’s non-dom regime. Can the Digital Nomad Visa lead to permanent residency or citizenship? Yes. After five years of continuous residence, you may qualify for long-term EU residency. After seven years, you may be eligible to apply for Greek citizenship, provided you meet the language and integration requirements. Reference Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Greece. (n.d.) Visas — National (Type D) long-term visa. Referred from https://www.mfa.gr/usa/en/visas.html International Tax Review. (2021, January 19). Greece introduces 50% tax break for relocating professionals. Referred from https://www.internationaltaxreview.com/article/2a68rfy5bw2ycq1ybdoq7/greece-introduces-50-tax-break-for-relocating-professionals PricewaterhouseCoopers. (2025, July 21). Greece — Individual — Other tax credits and incentives. Referred from https://taxsummaries.pwc.com/greece/individual/other-tax-credits-and-incentives Savory & Partners. (2025, April 9). Greek Tax Rates: Personal Income & Corporate Taxes Guide. Referred from https://www.savoryandpartners.com/blog/greece-tax-rates-guide Nomads Embassy. (n.d.) Greece Digital Nomad Visa: How to Apply [4 Steps]. Referred from https://nomadsembassy.com/greece-digital-nomad-visa/