Stable housing is the first foundation of a new life in Greece.
- 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.
- A European Union member since 1981 and part of the eurozone, Greece uses the euro (EUR).
The public health system (ESY) serves residents, though many add private insurance.
Residence holders must register a tax number (AFM) and a social-security number.
Renting as a newcomer
Opening a bank account requires a passport, tax number and residence documents.
Summers can be very hot, so choose a home with air-conditioning and near the sea if possible.
The cost of living in Greece is among the most comfortable in the EU.
Buying and ownership
Greece runs a Golden Visa programme granting residence to real-estate investors.
Since August 2024 the minimum investment rose to around EUR 800,000 in prime areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos and Santorini.
In many other areas the threshold is roughly EUR 400,000, with lower tiers for certain heritage-restoration projects.
Areas to consider
Mykonos draws visitors with its beaches, windmills and lively nightlife.
- Crete, the largest island, is rich in Minoan heritage and beautiful beaches.
- Meteora astonishes with monasteries perched atop towering rock pillars.
- The best time to visit is late spring and early autumn, avoiding the hot, crowded peak summer.
- Vietnamese travellers can obtain a short-stay Schengen visa to visit Greece.
- Island-hopping is mainly by ferry, so book ahead in high season.
Contracts and legal notes
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.
Related articles
- Greece through a migration lens: pros and things to note
- The Greece investor residency roadmap: from filing to settling
- Living Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Rent or buy in Greece?
The article weighs renting versus buying above.
What documents to rent?
Renting paperwork is covered above.
Which areas are best?
Recommended areas are listed above.
Information is for reference and may change under the latest official policy. Please contact us for current regulations.
