Capital City: Athens
Population: 10.43 million (2022)
Official language: Greek,
Commonly spoken languages: English, Albanian, Macedonian, Bulgarian,
Currency: Euro (€)
With its stunning natural beauty, rich ancient history, and affordable living costs, it’s no surprise if you’re considering moving to Greece from the UK. The country excels in various aspects like healthcare, education, and environmental standards, and the tranquil way of life, along with the pleasant weather, ensure a high quality of living.
From residency and visas to schooling and healthcare, we have gathered all the necessary information to help you prepare for your move to Greece. Take a look at our relocation guide, and get ready to embark on your new adventure!
Table of Contents
Can UK citizens move to Greece
As a result of Brexit, the situation for UK nationals in Europe has changed. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of possibilities for moving to Greece from the UK. If you are a British citizen who plans to stay in Greece for more than 3 months, you will have to apply for a visa. As a non-EU citizen moving to Greece, you will specifically need a D visa, which is also referred to as a National Visa (long-stay). This particular visa is mandatory for all non-EU citizens who wish to establish long-term residency in Greece. The D visa encompasses three distinct categories – employment, student, or family reunification visa.
Types of Greek Visas
Greece offers 3 different types of long-stay visas for individuals looking to relocate to the country. These include visas for family reasons, work, and study purposes. It is important to note that all visa applications must be filed in person at one of the Visa Application Centres situated in London, Manchester and Edinburgh.
The processing time for visa applications typically ranges from 15 to 45 days. Therefore, it is advisable to include this timeframe in your travel plans. Additionally, before applying for a visa, it’s always a good idea to stay updated on any potential changes to the application process.
Type C Schengen Visa
With this type of visa, you can freely travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Just remember to apply between 6 months and 15 calendar days before your departure date. Keep in mind that in 2024, the European Travel and Authorisation Visa will replace this short-stay visa. The new ETIAS will be digitalized and can be easily applied for online. It will cost €7 per application for individuals aged 18 to 70, but don’t worry; minors and the elderly are exempt from ETIAS fees.
Type D Long-stay Visa
If you plan on staying in Greece for more than 3 months, you’ll need to apply for a Type D visa. This visa is specifically for non-EU expats, and there are three different types available: employment, student, and family reunification. In most cases, expats will only be eligible for an employment or work visa.
To obtain an employment visa, you’ll need to provide a verified work contract from a public authority. The salary for this job should be at least equal to what unskilled workers earn in a month.
For a family reunification visa, you’ll need to show proof of your relationship with a Greek national. Additionally, you’ll have to provide evidence of accommodation and a suitable income.
If you’re applying for a student visa, you’ll need to show proof of enrollment at an educational institution in Greece. You’ll also need to demonstrate that you have paid the necessary fees and have enough income to support yourself.
Golden Visa
If you invest €250,000 in Greek property, you can qualify for this type of visa. With a Golden Visa, you’ll get a 5-year visa and expedited residency. In certain areas like Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, the investment amount can go up to €500,000. Alternatively, you can also secure a Golden Visa by investing at least €400,000 in real estate shares, private equities, or government bonds.
How to get Greek residency
If you plan on moving to Greece from the UK with a visa valid for a year or longer, you’ll need to apply for a Greece residence permit. It allows you to live in the country as well as grants you access to free healthcare. To apply, you’ll need to gather all the necessary documents required for a visa application. You can schedule an appointment to apply for the permit at your nearest General Regional Police Directorate.
If you’re living in Athens or Thessaloniki, you’ll need to visit your nearest Hellenic Police station. Keep in mind that if you’re in a more remote island location, you may have to travel a bit further for this process. Residence permits for employment visas are valid for 1-2 years, and you have the option to renew them for an additional 3 years. On the other hand, residence permits for Golden Visa holders are valid for 5 years.
However, if you’re staying in Greece for less than a year, you won’t need a residence permit, but you’ll still have to pay a consular fee of €150 in addition to other visa fees.
In order to obtain Greek citizenship you must:
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of the Greek language
- Be able to show that you are integrated into the economic and social life of the country
- Have a clean criminal record for at least 10 years before your application
- Have been legally a resident in Greece for seven consecutive years before the application
- Residency requirements drop to three years for EU citizens, who are married to a Greek citizen and have a child with their spouse or those who have parental responsibility of a Greek citizen
Where do most British expats live in Greece
Corfu
Corfu is home to more expats than any other part of Greece. Here you will find not just British people but also large communities of Russians and Germans. The capital city, known as Corfu town, has all the amenities you’re likely to need, including a British Vice Consulate, while the rest of the island is noted for its natural beauty, historical buildings, including monasteries and fortresses to explore and great swimming and snorkelling opportunities.
Other Greek islands
Crete, Rhodes, Spetses, and Lefkada are all popular choices for people moving to Greece from the UK. Each has a different character. Spetses is the most affluent and appeals to those looking for a more refined way of life. Lefkada is probably the most traditional of the most popular islands and a great place to move if you plan to spend at least some of your leisure time windsurfing.
Athens
If work opportunities and easy links to other European cities are high on your list of must-haves, then a move to Greece’s capital makes sense. You’ll also have world-class museums and ancient historical sites right on your doorstep. Athens boasts excellent restaurants and is a host of year-round cultural events.
Working in Greece
If you are moving to Greece from the UK, you may be able to find work as an English teacher if you have a TEFL qualification and a bachelor’s degree. Generally speaking, to work in Greece, you’ll need to be fluent in the language.
The highest demand for workers in Greece falls in the wholesale and retail trade, as well as in the provision of services, including customer service and technical support. In normal circumstances, there is a demand for summer workers in the tourism sector. If you’re looking for work that commands a high salary, this country probably isn’t your most fruitful hunting ground. On the other hand, the relatively low cost of living in Greece and the favourable climate make it a preferred retirement destination.
Transportation in Greece
There is an efficient intercity bus system in Greece but it can be tricky to use it without a working knowledge of Greek. Islands close to the mainland are often well served by ferries and many islands also have their own airfields, with flights usually departing from Athens or Thessaloniki.
Most cities have good urban bus systems, and Athens also has a good metro system. Taxis are widely available in Greece and, by European standards, are very affordable.
Driving your own car in Greece
If you’re living in Greece, you should exchange your UK driving licence for a Greek one before the end of the transition period. You will be able to use your Greek licence for short periods of time to drive in the UK and to exchange it for a UK licence if you return permanently to the United Kingdom.
The rules on driving in Greece are similar to those in most European countries. You drive on the right and overtake on the left. You should always carry your driving licence, proof of insurance, a formal identification document, such as a passport or residence permit, and proof of ownership of the vehicle.
- Children under 3 years must be placed in a suitable child restraint
- Children between 3 and 11 years, measuring less than 1.35m must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size
- From the age of 12, children measuring over 1.35m can wear an adult seat belt
Education in Greece
There are three levels of education in Greece, which roughly correspond to the UK primary, middle and senior school. School attendance is compulsory between the ages of 6 and 15.
The state education system is considered to have suffered as a result of the austerity measures the country has been experiencing. Many expats who move to Greece with children enrol them in private schools. Costs for these vary greatly and classes are still generally taught in Greek, something that many parents see as a great way of ensuring that their children are integrated into the country.
Being a student in Greece
While basic education may have suffered, the Greek university system is still well-regarded. According to the Times Higher Education World Rankings, the top three universities in Greece are:
The costs of living in Greece are comparatively low at around 450-750 EUR/month for all expenditures, including accommodation. This compares well with Spain, Germany, or Italy, where average monthly living costs are between 800 and 1,000 EUR.
Healthcare in Greece
Greek residents have access to both public and private healthcare options. It’s important to note that public healthcare in Greece is not free. Moreover, approximately 15% of Greek citizens have opted for private health insurance. By paying an additional fee, individuals can access dental care and even certain cosmetic surgeries.
Expats who move to Greece can qualify for healthcare by either paying social insurance contributions if they are registered to work in Greece or by using a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for temporary stays (for example, while studying or working as a detached employee for a UK company). Another option is to submit a UK-issued S1 form for UK-funded healthcare.
Once employed or self-employed in Greece, you’ll have to register with the Greek authorities, get a social insurance number and make social insurance contributions. You’ll then be entitled to state-run healthcare on the same basis as a Greek citizen. Like most state institutions, hospitals and health centres have suffered from cost-cutting in recent years, so you should consider taking out private medical insurance to supplement your state coverage.
Should you move to Greece?
Climate, quality of life, culture, natural beauty and low living costs all combine to make this stunning country an attractive destination for anyone considering relocating abroad. The welcoming spirit of the Greek people, coupled with the country’s delectable cuisine and slow pace of life, makes for a compelling case. Whether it’s the allure of a Mediterranean climate, the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, or the promise of a fresh start in a beautiful setting, moving to Greece from the UK is a journey that promises both adventure and tranquillity.
So, if you’re already planning your relocation, let our removal company handle the complexities of your transition. With our expertise and dedicated services, we’ll ensure your move to Greece is seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to make the move to your new home as smooth as possible.
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