Digital Nomad in Greece: program features

In today's world, physical presence at the workplace has become optional. The development of the internet and digital technology allows people to work from a computer from anywhere in the world, as long as they have access to a stable and high quality internet connection. The lack of physical attachment to the workplace allows remote workers to move around the world and work wherever they feel most comfortable.

For this reason, many countries, including Greece, have developed special visas called the Digital Nomad Visa. Thanks to them, remote workers can move to Greece, live and work in the country and obtain a residence permit without any problems.

What is the Digital Nomad Visa?

The Digital Nomad Visa is a form of visa designed for remote workers that allows citizens of another country to live and work fully legally in Greece. It is suitable for both remote workers and entrepreneurs who do not need to be physically present at the place of work.

The most important requirements for obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa are that you have a sufficient and stable income that will allow you to live comfortably in Greece and that the money you receive is legal.

Unlike, for example, a tourist visa, the Digital Nomad Visa provides a long period of residence with a chance to obtain a residence permit in the future.

Main advantages of the Digital Nomad Visa in Greece

• Fully legal residency in the country, plus the ability to extend the status if necessary.
• If the digital nomad can meet certain conditions, he or she may be exempt from taxes.
• This type of visa allows travel within the Schengen area, with a time limit of 90 days within a six-month period.
• Family Accompaniment - the applicant may bring a spouse and minor children, who also receive the right of residence.
• Access to Greek infrastructure - visa holders can rent accommodation, use banking services and health insurance.

Conditions and requirements for applicants

To obtain a Digital Nomad Visa in Greece, the following criteria must be met:

• Remote work or own business - the applicant must be a freelancer, working for a foreign company or running a business not related to Greece.
• Minimum income - at the time of application, a monthly income of at least 3500 euros must be confirmed. If the applicant brings a family, the threshold is increased by 20% for the spouse and 15% for each child.
• Health Insurance - the applicant must take out an insurance policy covering medical expenses in Greece.
• Proof of residence - the nomad must have official proof of rented accommodation or reservation.
• Clean background - the nomad must have a clean history and no criminal record of their country of citizenship.

How do I apply?

The process of obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa in Greece consists of several steps:

1. Document collection - the applicant must prepare passport, proof of income, health insurance, rental agreement, criminal record certificate and visa application.
2. Submitting the application - the documents can be submitted to the Greek Consulate in the country of residence or through an online platform, if this option is available.
3. Waiting for approval - the application usually takes between 10 and 60 days to be processed.
4. Obtaining a visa and entering Greece - once approved, the applicant is granted a visa for one year and can then apply for an extension.
5. Registration of residence permit - upon arrival in Greece, it is necessary to register at the Migration Service and obtain a residence permit based on the Digital Nomad Visa.

Visa Extension and Residence Permits

The visa is initially issued for 12 months, but can be extended for an additional two years if desired. To do so, you must provide updated financial documents and proof of residency. After three years in Greece you can apply for a permanent residence permit and after seven years you can apply for citizenship.

Taxes for Digital Nomads in Greece

One of the key issues for remote workers is taxation. Greece has a favorable tax regime for Digital Nomad Visa holders. For the first seven years, they can take advantage of a tax rebate and pay just 50% of the standard income tax rate. However, this only applies to those who become a tax resident of Greece.

If a digital nomad spends less than 183 days a year in the country, they remain tax resident in their home country and are not taxed in Greece. However, it is advisable to consult with tax professionals to avoid double taxation.

Conclusion

Greece is emerging as one of the best destinations for digital nomads due to its favorable visa program, mild climate and low cost of living. The Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers and entrepreneurs to legally reside in the country, enjoy all the benefits of European infrastructure and even receive tax benefits. Thanks to its simple application process and renewability, Greece is an attractive choice for those who want to combine a comfortable life on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea with productive remote work.