Life in Greece: What to Expect as a Golden Visa Resident
Learn what day‑to‑day life is like in Greece as a Golden Visa Resident—residency rights, costs, culture & community insights.
Sunny climate, affordable living, and Schengen access — Greece remains one of the most stable residency-by-investment programs in the EU. But it also comes with certain restrictions, especially on employment. Here’s a practical guide for future and current Golden Visa holders.
Residency Rights & Limitations
- Validity — 5 years, renewable if property ownership is maintained
- Travel — 90/180 days in the Schengen Zone
- Family — spouse, children under 21, both sets of parents
- Work — can own a business, rent out property, or work remotely for foreign clients; cannot be employed by a Greek company
- Residency requirement — none
Cost of Living & Housing
Average rent (1-bedroom, €/month):
- Athens — from €400
- Thessaloniki — from €350
- Islands — from €400
Example monthly budget (1 person): €900–1,500 (including rent)
Taxes & property expenses:
- ENFIA — 0.1–1% annually
- Property transfer tax — 3.09%
- Rental yields — 4–10% annually (location-dependent)
Healthcare, Education & Public Services
- Healthcare — access to ESY after getting AMKA; most expats choose private insurance (€800–1,500/year)
- Education —
- Public schools (Greek, free)
- International schools — €7,000–13,000/year
- Universities with English-taught programs (Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete)
Taxation & Special Regimes
- ≤183 days/year — tax on Greek-source income only
- >183 days/year — tax on worldwide income
- Special regimes:
- Non-Dom investor — €100,000/year flat tax
- Pensioners — 7% flat rate
- Highly Skilled Returnees — 50% income exemption
Day-to-Day Life & Culture
- Climate — 300+ sunny days/year, outdoor lifestyle
- Pace — “siga-siga” (slow pace), especially in bureaucracy
- Language — English widely spoken in cities; Greek required for official processes
- Safety — low violent crime rate
Work & Business Opportunities
Allowed:
- Property rental business
- Company ownership
- Remote work for foreign clients
Not allowed:
- Salaried employment with Greek employers (without a separate permit)
Real Expat Voices
- “Golden Visa is perfect for Schengen access and low cost of living.”
- “It took 3 months to get, but long-term taxes need planning.”
- “International schools are expensive but worth it.”
Practical Steps for Your Move
- Get AFM (tax number)
- Get AMKA (social security number)
- Open a Greek bank account
- Prepare apostilled documents
- Set up utilities (6–8 weeks)
- Arrange health insurance
FAQ
Can I work in Greece with a Golden Visa?
No, only business or remote work is allowed.
Do I need to live in Greece to keep my visa?
No, property ownership is enough.
What’s the cost of living?
From €1000/month for a single person renting a flat.
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