Before you travel, understand the Greece tourist-visa process.
- A European Union member since 1981 and part of the eurozone, Greece uses the euro (EUR).
- Greece belongs to the Schengen Area, allowing free movement across much of Europe.
- Its coastline stretches about 13,600 km, among the longest in the world.
Greece permits dual citizenship, so applicants can usually keep their original nationality.
The Greek passport is strong, offering visa-free access to most countries worldwide.
Types of visa
Long-term EU permanent residence can be sought after five years of lawful residence.
Citizenship processing can be lengthy, so prepare a thorough file to avoid repeated requests.
After seven years of lawful, continuous residence, foreigners may apply for Greek citizenship.
Documents to prepare
Naturalisation requires proof of integration plus knowledge of Greek language, history and culture.
- The Golden Visa is a residence permit, distinct from citizenship, which still requires real, lengthy residence.
- An immigration file needs a police clearance and personal documents, notarised and legalised.
- Family reunion allows sponsoring a spouse and children under EU rules.
- The capital, Athens, is the political and economic hub and the birthplace of Western democracy.
- Greece has a population of about 10.4 million, most following Greek Orthodox Christianity.
Process and timing
The official language is Greek, while English is widely spoken in tourism and larger cities.
Greece counts more than 6,000 islands and islets, of which roughly 200 are inhabited.
It has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, sunny winters.
Tips to boost approval
Public transport in Athens includes a convenient metro, buses and trams.
Fresh food, sunny weather and a relaxed pace are big pluses.
The Vietnamese community is small but present in Athens.
Need a tailored roadmap?
Viking Global Group walks with you from paperwork to settlement. Call +849.219.219.88 or email [email protected] for a free consultation.
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- Relocating to Greece with family: spouse and children
- Travel & Explore
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Greece visa hard?
Difficulty and tips are covered above.
How long does the visa take?
Processing time is noted above.
How long can I stay?
Permitted stay is covered above.
Information is for reference and may change under the latest official policy. Please contact us for current regulations.
