Residence in Greece: permits and requirements
Living legally in Greece is possible through 7 permit types: work, family, permanent, investment, study, international protection. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Residence Permit for Salaried Employment (Άδεια διαμονής για εξαρτημένη εργασία)
Residence type #1 of 7
Residence permit for third-country nationals with a work contract in Greece
Requirements
- Work contract or contract promise with a Greek employer
- The occupation must be among those authorized for third-country nationals
- Health and social security insurance (AMKA)
- No serious criminal record
- Suitable accommodation
Documentation
- Valid passport
- Signed work contract
- Social security certificate (EFKA)
- Criminal record certificate from the country of origin
- Medical certificate
- Lease agreement or proof of accommodation
- Identity photos
- Application form
Frequently asked questions about residence in Greece
How many types of residence permits are there in Greece?
Greece offers 7 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, family, permanent, investment, study, international protection. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Greece last?
Durations vary by permit type: 3 years (renewable for periods of 5 years); Same as the sponsor's permit; if the sponsor is an EU long-term resident: initial 3 years; Indefinite (card valid for 5 years, renewable); 5 years (renewable if the investment is maintained). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Greece be renewed?
Yes. All residence permit types of Greece (7 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Greece?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Identity photos; Formulario de solicitud; Valid passport; Certificado de antecedentes penales; Justificante de domicilio. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Greece lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 7 years of continuous lawful residence before the application. The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Greece.
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Anything to correct or add about Greece?
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