A Guide to Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa

Unsurprisingly, Greece isn’t just one of the most sought-after tourist hotspots; it has also rapidly gained popularity as a haven for relocation among digital nomads. Its allure, of course, lies in its stunning historic cities, stretches of picturesque coastlines, a history that continues to captivate the world, and a lifestyle that combines both pleasure and relaxation.

If you’re a digital nomad drawn to this enchanting way of life, you’re in luck. Greece introduced its digital nomad visa in 2021 and has been opening its doors to nomads and their family members ever since.

What Is A Digital Nomad Visa?

 
In our contemporary landscape, remote working and professionally relocating abroad are two concepts that have become increasingly commonplace.

This has come together and formed around the unique and modern shape of what has become known as a digital nomad.

Digital nomads are individuals who sustain their livelihoods by working remotely while residing outside their permanent country of residence. However, in order to pursue this lifestyle, necessary permits must be in place to ensure this is done correctly and in compliance with the laws of that country.

Various types of visas and programmes can facilitate this, but the most convenient is, of course, the so-called digital nomad visa.

Not only do these visas open doors for individuals wanting to work remotely in a foreign country, but each details the unique application process, permitted length of stay and tax regulations that will define the lives of the digital nomads that apply for it.

Does Greece Offer a Digital Nomad Visa?

 
Fortunately, digital nomads will be pleased to hear that Greece has launched a digital nomad visa and has been a welcoming environment for nomads ever since.

But several countries globally offer such visas. Why select Greece as your new nomadic home?

To begin with, any nomad has a myriad of beautiful settings to make their new home. From Athens to Santorini, Rhodes to Thessaloniki, with something to suit everyone, individuals may indeed feel spoilt for choice.

Besides its obvious charms, numerous practical benefits come with moving to this Mediterranean gem.

Greece is renowned for its relatively low cost of living. According to Numbeo, for a single person to reside in this beautiful country, monthly costs are around £695 without rent. However, even with the addition of rent, monthly costs still do not amount to much.

Rent in Greece is, on average, 59.4% lower than in the United Kingdom, and can be affordable even when found within a city centre. On top of this, food, utilities, and public transport are equally affordable.

The country also hosts multiple co-working spaces across its cities. And, if you prefer to work on the go, Greece boasts a recently improved internet speed of 69.12 Mbps, according to Speedtest by Ookla, and plenty of coffee shops and cafes offering delicious cuisine to work in.

As a digital nomad only looking to spend less than six months in the country, you will not be required to pay taxes by the Greek government. This makes it a notably affordable destination for digital nomads only looking to relocate to the country on a short-term basis. However, even if you wish to remain in Greece, the country has introduced a 50% tax reduction, further contributing to its affordability.

Requirements of Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa

 
In order to qualify for Greece’s digital nomad visa, certain requirements must first be met.

To begin with, applicants must be a non-EU citizen. They must also be able to provide proof of employment as a remote worker and an employment contract with a company registered outside Greece.

Applicants must also provide certain necessary documents, including a valid passport, a cover letter detailing why they wish to stay and work in Greece, a clean criminal record, proof of accommodation in Greece, proof of health insurance, and proof of a monthly salary exceeding €3,500.

Applicants must also (unfortunately) provide proof of a return flight ticket home, so the country can be sure no nomad can stay forever – however much they wish to.

In order to apply, hopeful digital nomads must bring together all the required documents, pay the relatively affordable application fee of €75 followed by a €150 administration fee and submit their application during an appointment that must be made at the nearest Greek embassy.

Applicants must also register for a residency permit in addition to a digital nomad visa. This can be done at the nearest Aliens and Immigration Department of the Decentralized Administration office.

The visa should only take around two weeks to one month to be processed, and, if hopeful digital nomads wish it, family members including a spouse and children under the age of 18 may be brought too.

Greece’s digital nomad is valid for up to 12 months, though the opportunity to renew for another 2 years is possible come to its expiration if any digital nomad finds themselves enticed with life in this captivating country.