The world of work is changing, and so is the way we think about where and how we work. In an age of remote work, the possibilities are endless. One country that’s paving the way for remote professionals is Greece, with its Digital Nomad Visa.
Greece: A Rising Hub for Digital Nomads
Our country is emerging as an attractive destination for remote work. Russia, Israel, Canada, the USA, China, and many more countries have seen over 500 digital nomads choosing Greece as their remote work destination in the last two years, if not more, given the influx of European remote workers who have opted for Greece, usually in association with their organizations. According to data from Nomad List, in September of this year alone, there were approximately 2,000 such workers in Athens.
Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa
In any case, Greece seems to have firmly entered the radar of digital nomads, aiming to attract a portion of the estimated 35 million workers worldwide who are considered digital nomads, according to various surveys. According to data from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in 2022, Greece issued 142 digital nomad visas to aspiring digital nomads and 49 family members who derive rights from digital nomads. Since the beginning of 2023, 136 digital nomad visas have already been granted.
Residence Permit Option
If a digital nomad wants to stay longer, after the 12-month visa period, they can apply for a two-year residence permit. Many third-country nationals who came to the country, even as tourists, choose this status. They represent a significant percentage of the residence permits granted since 2021.
According to the ministry’s data, from September 2021 to this year’s September, 1,087 applications have been submitted, 253 digital nomad residence permits have been issued, and 33 have been rejected. Reasons for rejection include submitting virtual lease agreements to the relevant service and not providing evidence of the ability to work remotely. At the same time, 801 applications are still pending, mainly because the small number of document checkers has created some delays.
Challenges and Opportunities for Digital Nomads in Greece
While Greece has begun to rise significantly in the preferences of remote workers, ranking 32nd out of 108 countries in the Global Remote Work Index (GRWI), digital nomads identify various issues that need to be resolved.
Greece: Your Ideal Digital Nomad Destination
Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa has brought about incredible opportunities, but it also comes with its unique challenges. Despite these challenges, Greece is establishing itself as an ideal destination for digital nomads. As this trend continues to grow, Greece is making strides in welcoming those looking to make their remote work dreams come true.
What is the Digital Nomad Visa?
In a nutshell, a Digital Nomad Visa is a document or program that grants individuals the legal right to work remotely while residing away from their country of permanent residence. Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa opens up a world of opportunities, allowing you to live and work anywhere in Greece independently and remotely, all while enjoying the comforts of your ideal environment.
Who Qualifies?
Non-EU nationals who are either dependent employees or self-employed individuals, working remotely for companies outside of Greece, are eligible for this visa. If your work relies on the internet and information technologies, you could be working from the sunny beaches of Greece in no time.
The Application Process
The application for a Digital Nomad Visa is straightforward, with a few key requirements:
- A valid passport with photocopies of all pages.
- A valid entry visa (Type D or Tourist Visa).
- Four recent photos (physical and digital format).
- Application fees.
- An insurance policy from a private insurance company.
- A responsible declaration stating that you’ll be working remotely for an employer outside Greece.
- Proof of employment or project contract with a foreign entity.
- Information about your position, the company’s details, and your role.
- Evidence of sufficient resources to cover living expenses (approximately €3,500 per month).
- Residential lease or property purchase contract in Greece (if you didn’t enter with a Type D visa).
All documents not in Greek must be translated as required.
What About Family Members?
Your family members are eligible for individual visas, but these do not grant them employment or professional activity rights in Greece.
Visa Validity
The Digital Nomad Visa is valid for up to 12 months. If your work requires a longer stay, you can apply for a Digital Nomad residence permit for two years, with the option to renew. Your family members can also benefit from this extension.
At Amoiridis Law Services®, we understand the complexities of the visa and permit process, and our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and support, ensuring your experience in Greece is smooth and hassle-free. For further information and personalized assistance tailored to your needs and profile, contact our legal team.
For any further information and clarifications please do not hesitate to contact our qualified legal team, ready to provide you with further personalized information tailored to your needs and your profile.
You can email us: or call/text us directly at: +306908351705 (WhatsApp/Viber)
Athens, October 2023
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