How to Obtain Greece Digital Nomad Visa in 2025

Introduction

Greece attracts remote professionals with its mild climate, rich culture, and affordable cost of living. For those who wish to work remotely while living in this country, there is a special option — the Digital Nomad Visa. This visa allows non-EU citizens to relocate to Greece, enjoy its natural beauty and historical heritage, while continuing to work remotely. In this article, we explain who is eligible to apply, what requirements applicants must meet, and how the application process works.

Who Are Digital Nomads?

Digital nomads are professionals who can work remotely without being tied to an office or specific location. Most commonly, these are IT specialists, marketers, designers, copywriters, financial experts, and other professionals working in the global market. Many countries offer long-term stay programs for such individuals, such as Digital Nomad Visas.

This type of visa allows you to stay in the country for up to one year, with the possibility of extension. In some cases, applicants must rent accommodation and open a local bank account before submitting their application. The main requirement for digital nomads is to have a stable, verifiable income earned outside the host country. Governments use such programs to attract skilled professionals and economically active individuals to boost their economies. Currently, around 40 countries offer these types of visas, and Greece is one of the most attractive options.

Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa Program

Greece launched its Digital Nomad Visa program in 2021, offering remote professionals the chance to live in the country while working for employers or clients abroad. The visa is available to non-EU citizens and is issued for one year, with the option to renew. In 2024, the rules changed: applications must now be submitted only through Greek consular offices in the applicant’s country of citizenship or residence — not within Greece itself.

You may apply if you are:

1. A remote employee whose employer or clients are not registered in Greece.
2. A freelancer with a stable income.
3. A business owner whose company does not operate or provide services within Greece.

To qualify for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Financial independence – a verified income of at least €3,500 per month. If a spouse joins, the required amount increases by 20%; for each child, it increases by 15%.
2. Remote employment – the applicant must not be employed by a Greek company and must provide evidence of foreign employment or business activities.
3. Health insurance – coverage valid for the entire stay in Greece.
4. Clean criminal record – a certificate of no criminal convictions is required.
5. Accommodation – a long-term rental contract or proof of property ownership in Greece.

Digital nomads may stay outside of Greece for no more than six months per year. After five years of continuous residency, they may apply for permanent residency, and after seven years, for citizenship—provided they pass a Greek language and culture exam. This program allows remote workers not only to enjoy life in Greece but also to plan for long-term integration into the country.

Required Documents

To obtain a Digital Nomad Visa in Greece, you must prepare a set of documents proving your identity, financial self-sufficiency, and compliance with program requirements.

The basic list of documents includes:

1. A passport valid for at least three months beyond the visa’s expiration date, with at least two blank pages.
2. Proof of financial means – recent bank statements or other documents showing a steady income over the past 6–12 months. The income’s regularity must be clearly visible.
3. Proof of remote work (employment or freelance contract) confirming that the employer or clients are not based in Greece; or documents showing the use of digital tools (computer, internet, remote platforms) to carry out work.
4. A rental agreement or proof of property ownership in Greece.
5. Health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation. You may choose an international or local Greek insurance provider.
6. A police clearance certificate from your country of citizenship or legal residence.
7. A completed visa application form indicating the purpose of travel under “Main purpose of the journey → Other → Remote work.”
8. A cover letter explaining your intention to live in Greece while working remotely and not seek employment with Greek companies.
9. Four recent color passport-sized photos (35×45 mm).
10. Proof of payment of the visa fee – €75.

If your family is accompanying you, you must also submit:

• marriage certificate (for spouses);
• birth certificates (for children);
• additional income proof: 20% more for a spouse and 15% more per child.

If you are applying as a self-employed individual, you must also include:

1. Business registration documents from outside of Greece.
2. Contracts with multiple clients (legal entities) registered abroad.

All documents not in Greek must be translated and either notarized or apostilled. A complete and correctly prepared set of documents will help avoid delays and speed up the visa approval process. If you have questions or need help preparing your application, feel free to contact us — we’ll gladly guide you through every step of securing your Digital Nomad Visa in Greece.

Applying for a Digital Nomad Visa

The process of applying for a Digital Nomad Visa in Greece involves several steps that are required to obtain a residence permit and live in the country as a digital nomad. The stages for obtaining the Digital Nomad Visa in Greece include:

1. Collect all necessary documents. Make sure all the documents listed in the checklist are correctly prepared. All documents issued in your home country must be translated into Greek and either notarized or apostilled.
2. Submit your application through the consulate. Fill out the application form and submit it to the nearest Greek consulate. Note that consulates may accept applications only in person, by mail, or by email, depending on local regulations. When applying, you must pay a visa fee of €75.
3. Application review and temporary document issuance. After submitting your documents, your application will be reviewed within approximately one month. During this period, you will receive a temporary document that allows you to stay in Greece but does not grant you the right to travel to other Schengen countries.
4. Pay the government fee. If your application is approved, you must pay a government fee: €1,000 for the main applicant, €150 for a spouse or partner, and €16 for each child.
5. Submit biometrics and receive residence permit. After paying the fee, you will need to provide biometric data. Two weeks later, you will be issued a residence permit card valid for two years with the possibility of renewal.

The process of obtaining the visa and residence permit requires attention to detail and preparation, but following all steps will help you acquire digital nomad status in Greece efficiently and without unnecessary delays. If you need help at any stage, we are ready to provide you with professional support.

Visa Application Costs

When applying for a Digital Nomad Visa in Greece, you need to consider several fees. The main application fee is €75, which covers administrative costs related to processing your application. Keep in mind that this amount is non-refundable, even in case of a visa refusal. Additionally, there is a government fee of about €1,000. If you are applying for a visa for your family, each family member must also pay a fee: €150 for a spouse and €16 for each child. Understanding all the costs involved will help you avoid surprises during the application process. Make sure all fees are paid on time to prevent delays.

Pros and Cons of the Digital Nomad Visa

Greece is becoming an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. The capital, Athens, can be considered one of the fastest-growing remote work hubs—and for good reason. In recent years, the city has seen a 163% growth in its digital nomad community. Athens’ inclusion in the top destinations for remote workers (according to WorkMotion) confirms the country’s rising appeal to digital professionals.

One of the main advantages is the straightforward visa application process. To obtain the visa, it is enough to prove stable income and the ability to work remotely. The residence permit can be quickly issued not only for the main applicant but also for family members, making relocation easier. A key benefit is the possibility of multiple renewals, which may become a pathway to Greek citizenship. Additionally, IT professionals may benefit from tax incentives, such as partial income tax exemptions, making Greece especially attractive for tech specialists.

However, the program is not without its drawbacks. Despite many advantages, Greece doesn’t suit every digital nomad. According to research by the ENA Institute for Alternative Policies, there are areas that need improvement, such as internet infrastructure and access to information about the country’s readiness to welcome nomads. Enhancing the competitiveness of the tax system is also an ongoing concern.

Another downside is the high income threshold for obtaining the visa. Not every IT specialist can meet the financial requirements. Those planning to relocate with their family face even stricter income criteria. It’s important to remember that losing a stable income could result in the visa not being renewed, which creates a limitation for those experiencing temporary income drops.

At the same time, Greece offers many advantages: a mild climate, relatively low living costs compared to other European countries, friendly and welcoming locals, and excellent Mediterranean cuisine. Moving to Greece on a Digital Nomad Visa is not only a chance for a new life but also an opportunity to enjoy a unique culture and a comfortable environment for both work and leisure. In summary, relocating to Greece with a Digital Nomad Visa is an appealing opportunity, but it’s important to weigh all the pros and cons to make an informed decision.

Taxation for Freelancers

Greece is a popular choice for digital nomads, and understanding the local tax system is a key part of deciding to move. Freelancers in Greece are subject to a progressive tax scale, meaning tax rates increase with income. To become a Greek tax resident, you must stay in the country for more than 180 days in a calendar year.

The country has a progressive income tax system, with rates varying based on income level. For instance, income up to €12,000 per year is tax-exempt, while income from €40,000 to €60,000 is taxed at 38%. Income above €100,000 is taxed at the maximum rate of 45%. These conditions imply higher contributions for higher earners, but there are also opportunities for tax deductions.

Digital nomads working in IT may take advantage of tax incentives. During the first seven years of residency, they may qualify for a 50% income tax reduction, making Greece an attractive option for professionals in this field. However, eligibility requirements apply, and it’s important to consult a tax advisor or accountant to avoid mistakes.

If you reside in Greece for less than 183 days per year, you do not become a tax resident and are not obligated to pay taxes in the country. However, after six months of living in Greece, digital nomads may access tax deductions and the 50% tax reduction program for up to seven years. Thus, taxation in Greece can be advantageous for freelancers, especially those in IT who plan to stay long-term. Given the progressive tax rates and available incentives, it is essential to carefully plan your tax obligations and seek professional advice for financial optimization.

Summary of Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa

The Digital Nomad Visa provides a unique opportunity to combine your career with quality living in one of the world’s most scenic countries. Among the program’s main benefits are the ease of obtaining the visa, the option for multiple renewals, and tax breaks for IT professionals. These features make Greece an appealing choice for freelancers and entrepreneurs.

If you’re planning a move with your family, the application and document preparation process requires attention to detail, but the benefits offered by the Digital Nomad Visa can greatly outweigh the effort. Overall, Greece presents digital nomads with an excellent environment for both work and life. With a well-prepared visa application and awareness of all requirements, this experience can mark the beginning of a new and successful chapter in your life.