Your Guide to the Greece Digital Nomad Visa
Mesan Ali
In recent years, the traditional office setup has seen a significant transformation, thanks to advancements in technology and a shift in work culture. Enter the digital nomads—those adventurous souls not tied to a desk, who are reshaping the way we think about work and travel. With the world as their oyster, digital nomads can choose where to live and work, often gravitating towards places that offer a blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and quality living. One country that has become increasingly popular for this lifestyle is Greece. With its breathtaking Mediterranean scenery, rich historical tapestry, and inviting climate, Greece is calling out to remote workers worldwide. In this article, we’ll explore what it means to be a digital nomad, detail the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, and guide you through the steps to obtain it.
What is a Digital Nomad, and How to Become One?
So, what exactly is a digital nomad? At its core, a digital nomad is a remote worker who harnesses technology to complete their tasks from various locations around the globe. This lifestyle opens the door to incredible flexibility—imagine working from a beach in Crete one week and a café in Thessaloniki the next! To step into this world, you typically need a job that allows for remote work. This could be freelancing, working for a remote-friendly company, or even running your own online business.
To become a digital nomad, consider these steps:
Identify Your Skills Determine what you can offer remotely—this could be anything from graphic design to software development, writing, or marketing.
Find Remote Work Opportunities Explore platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or even LinkedIn for job listings that cater to remote workers.
Create a Flexible Routine Establish a work schedule that allows you to balance productivity with exploration.
Prepare for Travel Once you’ve secured a remote job, it’s time to plan your travels, making sure to factor in Wi-Fi availability and suitable workspaces.
Embrace the Lifestyle Dive into new cultures, meet fellow nomads, and enjoy the freedom that comes with this lifestyle!
What is a Greece Digital Nomad Visa?
Now that you have a grasp on the digital nomad lifestyle, let’s delve into the Greece Digital Nomad Visa. Introduced in the summer of 2021, this visa was crafted specifically to entice remote workers to Greece. If you’re a non-EU national, this visa allows you to live and work in Greece for up to two years, provided you meet specific documentation and application criteria.
Initially valid for one year, you can extend the visa for an additional year if you wish to prolong your stay. This makes it an appealing option for those who are eager to immerse themselves in Greek culture and lifestyle for an extended period.
How to Get a Greece Digital Nomad Visa?
Applying for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa involves several straightforward steps. Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate the application process:
Gather Documents:
Valid Passport Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.
Passport Photos Include two recent passport-sized photos.
Proof of Remote Work Documentation must demonstrate that you work remotely for a company, clients, or own a business established outside of Greece.
Bank Statements You’ll need six months of bank statements showing a monthly income of at least €3,500 (€4,200 if you’re bringing a spouse, and €4,830 if you’re bringing a spouse and one dependent).
Criminal Background Check A certified copy of your criminal record from your home country is required.
Health Insurance Proof of health insurance coverage that is valid in Greece.
Medical Certificate A certificate stating that you are in good health.
Address of Accommodations Provide the address where you’ll be living while in Greece.
You can apply in person at the nearest Greek embassy or consulate. If you’re already in Greece, submit your application to the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum. Don’t forget to pay the non-refundable application fee of €75 along with a €150 administration fee.
The review process typically takes about 10 working days or two weeks. You’ll receive notification from the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum if your application is approved.
Should you want to extend your stay beyond the two years, you may need to apply for a residence permit, which costs €1,000, however, this is optional.
Which Countries Offer Digital Nomad Visas?
Greece is not alone in its efforts to attract digital nomads. Several countries have rolled out their own digital nomad visas, each with unique perks. Here are a few worth mentioning:
Portugal
The D7 Visa allows for a 1-year stay and can be renewed for up to 5 years, with a monthly income requirement of approximately €705.
Spain
This option offers stays of up to 5 years, requiring a monthly income of €2,000 or an annual income of €24,000.
Estonia
A digital nomad can stay for 1 year here, with a monthly income requirement of €3,504 gross of tax.
Dubai (UAE)
Offers a 1-year, renewable visa with a monthly income requirement of $5,000 and no income tax policy.
Barbados
Allows stays of up to 1 year with an annual income requirement of $50,000 and no local income tax on foreign earnings.
Croatia
Croatian Digital Nomad Visa offers a 1-year residence permit that requires a monthly income of around €2,300 and provides a tax exemption on foreign-earned income.
Czech Republic
This country provides a Long-term Work Visa for Freelancers, valid for 1 year and renewable, with proof of accommodation and approximately €5,600 in your bank account required.
Greece Digital Nomad Visa Overview
The Greece Digital Nomad Visa is part of Law 4825/2021, aimed at enticing remote workers to the country. The initial validity of one year, with the option to extend for another year, makes it an excellent choice for those who wish to experience Greece’s charm for a longer period. As a member of the Schengen Area, Greece also grants visa holders the luxury of visa-free access to 26 European countries if they spend at least six months in Greece.
Greece Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
To qualify for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay.
Income of at Least €3,500 per Month
You need to prove a monthly income of at least €3,500 (€4,200 if bringing a spouse, and €4,830 if bringing a spouse and one dependent).
Work Remotely
You must be employed remotely for a company, clients, or own a business outside of Greece.
Clean Criminal Record
A certified copy of your criminal record is mandatory.
International Health Insurance
Proof of health insurance coverage in Greece is required.
Certified Health Check
A medical certificate confirming your good health is necessary.
Address of Accommodations
You must provide the address of your living arrangements in Greece.
How Do I Apply For a Greek Digital Nomad Visa?
Let’s break down the application process into actionable steps:
Gather Documents: Collect all required documents, including your valid passport, proof of remote work, bank statements, criminal background check, health insurance, medical certificate, and address of accommodations.
Submit Application: Head to the nearest Greek embassy or consulate to apply. If you’re already in Greece, go to the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum.
Pay Fees: Be prepared to pay a total of €225 (€75 application fee + €150 administration fee).
Wait for Approval: The application review typically takes about 10 working days to two weeks. If all is well, you’ll receive your approval notification from the Greek authorities.
How Much Does it Cost to Apply For Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa?
The cost to apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa amounts to €225, covering both the application and administration fees.
How Long Does the Whole Process Take?
Generally, the application process takes around 10 working days to two weeks. However, if any documents are missing or incomplete, it could take a bit longer, so it's best to ensure everything is in order before submission.
Conclusion
The Greece Digital Nomad Visa is more than just a permit; it's an invitation to live and work in one of the most stunning and culturally rich countries in Europe. With its easy application process and enticing benefits, such as a significant tax break on income for the first seven years, Greece stands out as an ideal destination for digital nomads. Whether you’re looking to indulge in the Mediterranean lifestyle for a year or extend your stay indefinitely, the Greece Digital Nomad Visa offers a unique blend of work and leisure in a picturesque setting. So pack your bags, grab your laptop, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Greece!