How to Get a Greek Visa as a UK Citizen: A Step-by-Step Guide

Greece is a popular destination for UK citizens looking to relocate, whether for retirement, remote work, or investment. With its warm climate, affordable cost of living, and high quality of life, it offers an attractive option for those wanting to settle in the Mediterranean.

However, since Brexit, UK citizens no longer have automatic residency rights in Greece. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa before moving. The process involves legal paperwork, financial requirements, and careful planning.

Here is what you need to know about getting a Greek visa as a UK citizen and how to make the process as smooth as possible.

Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Greece?

If you’re planning a short stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you don’t need a visa.

But if you intend to stay longer, you’ll have to apply for a visa before leaving the UK and, once in Greece, obtain a residence permit. This process requires careful preparation to ensure that your application is accepted.

Many UK citizens assume it’s a simple formality, only to face unexpected obstacles and delays when dealing with Greek authorities.

Which Greek Visa Should You Apply For?

There are different visa options available, and choosing the right one is crucial to ensuring a smooth move.

Retirement Visa (Financially Independent Person Visa – FIP Visa)

This visa is aimed at retirees who want to live in Greece without working.

Applicants must prove they have a steady passive income, typically at least £3,000 per month, plus additional funds for dependents. Health insurance is also required.

While this visa is popular among UK retirees, many find the application process more complicated than expected.

Requirements can change, and documentation standards vary depending on the consulate or regional office handling your application.

Greek Golden Visa

For those who plan to invest in property, the Golden Visa is a viable option.

A minimum real estate investment of £215,000 (currently €250,000, though rising in some areas) is required. Unlike other visas, there is no income requirement, making it attractive for those looking to secure residency through investment.

However, not all properties qualify, and the process of purchasing real estate in Greece is different from the UK. It’s important to ensure that your investment meets the legal criteria before committing.

Digital Nomad Visa

For remote workers, the Digital Nomad Visa allows UK citizens to live in Greece while working online for an employer or clients outside the country.

This visa requires proof of remote employment or self-employment and a minimum monthly income of £3,000.

While this visa may seem straightforward, it also comes with financial and tax implications that applicants should carefully consider.

Each visa option has its own challenges, and it’s not uncommon for applicants to run into delays or misunderstandings about the requirements. Greek bureaucracy can be inconsistent, and missteps in the process can be frustrating to resolve.

For many UK citizens, getting expert guidance from a Greek visa consultant ensures that their application is handled correctly, reducing the risk of unnecessary delays.

The Reality of Greek Bureaucracy

Visa applications are just the first step. After arriving in Greece, applicants must complete additional requirements, including:

Registering with Greek immigration authorities.
Obtaining a Greek tax number (AFM).
Opening a Greek bank account.

These steps can be time-consuming and often confusing, as local offices do not always follow the same procedures. Many UK citizens underestimate how difficult it can be to complete these formalities alone, especially with language barriers and varying interpretations of immigration rules.

Securing a Greek visa as a UK citizen is entirely possible, but it’s not always as simple as it seems. Visa rules can be inconsistent, and even small errors in documentation can lead to unexpected setbacks.

For those looking to relocate with minimal hassle, understanding the visa process is just the beginning. Ensuring that applications meet the necessary standards from the outset can save valuable time and frustration.

Moving to Greece should be an exciting new chapter, not a bureaucratic struggle. Having the right support can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth transition.