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It’s no secret that the world of work is changing rapidly and digital nomad visas are beginning to pop up all over! A number of nations are introducing digital nomad visas to cater to the growing number of remote workers. The Greek government is now joining the movement with its digital nomad visa, welcoming nomads from all over to its golden shores.
This blog is your ultimate guide to navigating the ins and outs of getting a digital nomad visa in Greece. We’re talking about everything you need to know – from the must-haves for your application to how taxes come into play, and of course, all the awesome perks. So, if you’re curious about making Greece your remote work haven, keep reading to get all the details.
Table of Contents
- Navigating the Steps to Become a Digital Nomad
- Why should you choose Greece?
- Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa
- Greece Digital Nomad Visa: FAQs
- Healthcare in Greece
- Greece Digital Nomad Visa: pathway to Greek citizenship
- Comparing Digital Nomad Visas: Greece, Spain and Portugal
- Start your adventure today with Lexidy
Navigating the Steps to Become a Digital Nomad
- Pick a Country: First things first, think about where you want to plant your digital nomad roots. This choice can really shape your quality of life, so weigh factors like culture, stability, healthcare, education, and your personal values.
- Chat with a Legal Pro: Once you’ve got your destination in mind, it’s time to team up with a legal whiz. They’ll be your guide through the visa process, making sure you’ve got all your ducks in a row.
- Gather Your Paperwork: With your legal expert’s help, you’ll figure out exactly what documents you need. These papers will be your ticket to meeting the requirements set by the Consulate or Embassy in your chosen country.
- Submit Your Application: You’ve got your paperwork sorted – now it’s go-time! You can apply for your digital nomad visa either from your home country or in the country you’re eyeing.
- Visa Approved – Let’s Roll: Yay, you got the green light! Now it’s time to pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
- Think Long-Term: If you’re thinking of putting down roots, consider turning that visa into a residence permit. Different countries have different rules, so chat with your legal guru to figure out if this is the next step for you.
- Master Your Taxes: Becoming a local resident means you’ll need to get cosy with your new country’s tax game. This is where a savvy lawyer can really come in handy – they’ll help you understand the ins and outs.
Why should you choose Greece?
Great weather and seaside: Did you know? Greece has the longest coastline on the continent. With an abundance of sunshine, you will have plenty of time to explore the plentiful beaches along the coast.
Rich historical heritage: As the birthplace of Western civilization, Greece holds a remarkable legacy that captivates the world. From the splendour of ancient Athens and the iconic Acropolis to the ruins of Delphi and Olympia, there is much for you to explore.
Strategic location for international trade: Greece´s unique location has long been an advantage for international trade and commerce. With access to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern markets, Greece is the optimal location for investors and companies looking to capitalize on trade opportunities.
Low cost of living – Greece´s cost of living is generally considered to be affordable. The cost of accommodation, transport, eating out and entertainment is well below the European Union average so you can experience the country´s unique charm without breaking your budget.
Stunning cuisine: Greek cuisine is a delicious mix of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavours and a rich culinary history that reflects the country´s Mediterranean history. Enjoy the warmth of Greek hospitality that will be sure to make you feel at home.
Entertainment and recreation: Whether you like art, history, or adventure, Greece has boundless activities for all interests and preferences. There is a concentration of fun in every big and small town or island.
Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa
Greece has now become a hotspot for digital nomads like you who want that perfect mix of work and play. With its Digital Nomad Visa, Greece is offering you the chance to soak in its rich history while you work from wherever you please
Now, let’s get into the specific details– what you need to make this happen. To be approved for Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa, you’ve got a checklist to tick off:
Key Requirements for Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa
To unlock Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa and live your Hellenic dream, you’ve got to meet the following requirements:
- Financial Stability: Greece wants to know that you’re all set financially for your stay. It’s like having a little nest egg to make sure you’re comfortable and covered while you’re enjoying the Grecian breeze.
- Safety first: You’ll need to have not one, but two kinds of insurance – travel and health. This is to make sure you’re protected throughout your entire adventure in Greece.
- Prove Your Employment: It’s not all beaches and gyros – you’ve got to show that you mean business. Whether it’s your remote job or your freelancing gigs, you need to prove you’ve got a steady stream of income.
- Have a Clean Slate: Greece’s immigration authorities want to see that you’re a stand-up guest. This means having a good standing with the authorities.
Greece Digital Nomad Visa: the application process
So, you meet all the requirements. Great! But how do you go about acquiring that visa? Follow these simple steps:
- Head to the Greek consulate in your home country or where you’re currently residing to kick off the application.
- Collect all necessary documents – think proof of income, health insurance coverage, and a clean criminal record. These documents showcase your eligibility and credibility.
- Pay the visa application fee, your golden ticket to starting your digital nomad journey in Greece.
Taxation Implications in Greece
Something important to remember if you’re soaking up the Greek sun for more than 183 days in a year – you might find yourself in the tax resident zone. That means Greek taxation on your global income. However, a great benefit of the Digital Nomad Visa is the flexibility it provides. You won’t be required to become a tax resident automatically.
Greece Digital Nomad Visa: FAQs
Can I apply for a digital nomad visa abroad?
If you’re already soaking up the Greek sun, you have the golden chance to apply for a residence permit. This permit gives you the green light to stay in Greece for up to 2 years.
Can I apply for a digital nomad visa from home?
Greece is all about making things easy. You can apply for a 1-year visa straight from the consulate in your home country (and get it in just 10 days!). Once you land in Greece, you can upgrade it to a 2-year residence permit.
Can I work for local companies with a digital nomad visa?
Unfortunately, with the digital nomad visa in Greece, you can’t jump on board and work with local Greek companies. But hey, you’ve got the whole world to work with, right?
What are the employment requirements to get a digital nomad visa?
If you’re looking to make Greece your digital nomad base, there are a few employment hoops to jump through. So, if you’re armed with an employment contract of at least 1 year and you can demonstrate that you can do your work remotely, you’re good to go.
What is the minimum income requirement to get a digital nomad visa?
Okay, let’s talk numbers. To score that Greek digital nomad visa, the main applicant (that’s you) should be earning at least 3,500 € per month. Want to bring your partner with you? Bump that up by 700 € per month. And if you’ve got little ones along for the ride, each child adds another 500 € per month to the requirement.
What about other countries? Do they have a digital nomad visa?
The world is quickly opening up to digital nomads! Spain and Portugal are waving the digital nomad visa flag too. They’re all about welcoming remote workers like you with open arms.
Italy has also been working on its own digital nomad visa. However, it’s not fully available yet. So, if Italy’s calling your name, keep your eyes peeled for updates and get ready to explore the Mediterranean way of life while working remotely in the near future.
Healthcare in Greece
When you’re jet-setting as a digital nomad, having access to quality healthcare is a must. The good news is that Greece has you covered. The country’s healthcare system is highly regarded, offering top-notch medical services to locals and foreigners alike. So, if you’re feeling under the weather or just need a check-up, you’re in safe hands.
Digital nomads in Greece can tap into the public healthcare system by applying for a Greek Social Security Number (AMKA). It’s like your golden ticket to the healthcare world. However, the process may vary if you’re coming in from a non-EU country. Just something to keep in mind as you navigate the health maze.
If you want that A+ coverage with no waiting game, private health insurance is for you. Greece has a variety of options to pick from, meaning you can choose the plan that matches your health needs like a glove.
Greece Digital Nomad Visa: pathway to Greek citizenship
Looking to call Greece your new permanent home? It’s a big decision and the process can be complex. But for some digital nomads, it’s totally worth it. Every country has its own way of doing things, and its own rules for citizenship. So, before you commit, take a deep dive into what’s required for Greece.
If Greece has stolen your heart (and it often does!), you’ll need to soak up the Mediterranean lifestyle for at least seven years to be in the running for citizenship. During that time, you’ll need to show off your Greek language skills and nail a cultural integration test – sounds like a cool challenge, right?
Like Portugal and Spain, Greece also has a Golden Visa program. Invest in real estate, and you could be setting yourself up for residency and a potential path to citizenship down the line.
Comparing Digital Nomad Visas: Greece, Spain and Portugal
You may feel ready to dive into the world of Greek digital nomad visas? But let’s take a quick step back and look at all your options first. This is a big decision, and there’s a chance that another visa might just be your perfect match. So, let’s dig in and do some detective work with a side-by-side comparison of the digital nomad visas in Spain, Portugal, and Greece. This way, you can confidently choose the right path for you!
Income Requirements
When it comes to income, Spain and Portugal have similar requirements. They both want to make sure you’ve got the financial muscle to sustain your nomad lifestyle for a year. Meanwhile, Greece has its own set of financial stability criteria, making it an even playing field for all.
Health Insurance
Let’s get serious about something: your health. Wherever your digital nomad adventure unfolds – be it in the Spanish sun, the Portuguese charm, or the beauty of Greece – you’re in good hands. Health insurance is a non-negotiable, and these countries have your well-being covered. It’s a universal rule: you need solid health insurance that covers your entire stay.
Tax Implications
Here’s a topic we can’t dodge: taxes. Spain and Portugal are some tax-friendly setups for digital nomads, even throwing in potential perks if you meet certain criteria. Greece is right there too, offering flexibility when it comes to tax residency so you have the freedom to decide your tax status.
Start your adventure today with Lexidy
With its inviting atmosphere and relaxed pace, Greece offers a unique remote work experience that blends work and leisure seamlessly. If you’re interested in moving here as a digital nomad it’s crucial that you understand the application process, taxation implications, and lifestyle opportunities that await you in Greece.
At Lexidy, our expert legal team is here to guide you through the process of applying for your Greek digital nomad visa, so you can ensure a simple and successful transition to your dream destination.
If you´re ready to begin your exciting new journey abroad, then connect with us today. Reach out through our form below and our expert team of lawyers will reach out to you with all of the information and paperwork.