Moving to Greece need not be solo; here is how to bring the family.
- 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.
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.
Sponsoring a spouse
Family reunion allows sponsoring a spouse and children under EU rules.
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.
Children and schooling
Greek degrees are recognised across the EU under the Bologna Process.
Scholarships come from the Greek state, the EU's Erasmus+ and individual universities.
Strong fields include maritime studies, archaeology, tourism-hospitality and medicine.
Dependant benefits
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.
- Rents outside central Athens are often softer than in many Western European cities.
- 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.
- Public transport in Athens includes a convenient metro, buses and trams.
Extra costs and steps
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.
The Golden Visa residence card is valid for five years and renews while the investment is held.
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
- Property returns in Greece for migrant investors
- Your first six months as a new resident of Greece
- Immigration & Citizenship
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my whole family?
Spouse and child sponsorship rules are detailed above.
Can my children study?
Children's education access is described above.
What does each dependant add?
Extra costs and steps per member are noted above.
Information is for reference and may change under the latest official policy. Please contact us for current regulations.
