Digital Nomads in Greece: The Ultimate Guide

Greece is a country of ancient history and stunning landscapes, but did you know it’s also a popular destination for digital nomads? With its affordable cost of living, high-speed internet, and abundance of coworking spaces, Greece is the perfect place to combine work and travel. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of being a digital nomad in Greece, popular destinations, and tips for making the most of your experience.

Greece Launches Digital Nomad Visa: An Opportunity for Remote Workers

Greece, a country known for its ancient history and stunning landscapes, has recently made headlines for a new development: the launch of a Greece Digital Nomad Visa. This new visa category, which became available in 2021, is designed specifically for remote workers and freelancers who wish to live and work in Greece.

The digital nomad visa is valid for 12 months and can be renewed into a Digital Nomad Residence Permit. This allows digital nomads and their family members to relocate to Greece and work remotely while enjoying all the country has to offer. From the white-washed buildings of the Greek islands to the bustling city of Athens, digital nomads have the opportunity to explore the country and its rich culture.

Greece’s digital nomad visa is a significant step towards making the country more attractive for remote workers and freelancers, providing them with an affordable and inspiring destination, with great benefits such as tax reductions and a flexible working schedule. It also brings a great opportunity for the local economy, as digital nomads tend to spend more on accommodation, food, and leisure activities, and in some cases, invest in local companies.

In conclusion, Greece’s digital nomad visa is an exciting development for remote workers and freelancers, offering a chance to live and work in one of the world’s most beautiful and historic countries while enjoying a more relaxed lifestyle and a lower cost of living.

Eligibility Criteria for the Digital Nomad Visa in Greece

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa, launched in 2021, enables non-EU or non-EEA nationals who are self-employed or have remote jobs to live and work in Greece. However, to be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet certain criteria.

• Applicants must not be employed by a company registered in Greece. 
• Applicants must have clients or be employed by a company based outside of Greece. 
• Applicants must be able to provide their services and complete their work obligations using a stable internet connection and a laptop. 
• Self-employed applicants must demonstrate proof of their business activity, corporate purpose, and business address, and it’s important to note that their businesses cannot be registered in Greece.
• All applicants must prove that they meet the minimum monthly financial requirement of €3,500. 

Those who are successful in their application will acquire a Greece Digital Nomad Visa with a one-year validity. Once it’s up, individuals can extend their visa for an additional year by applying for the Nomad Residence Permit on the condition they continue to meet the visa’s requirements.

Navigating the Greece Digital Nomad Visa Application Process

The application process for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is simple, and it is dependent on where you are currently based. If you are in Greece, you can submit your application to the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum. However, you must do this before your initial visa expires. If you are not in Greece, you must apply for a visa at the nearest Greece Embassy or Greek Consulate in your home country.

Once you have submitted your application and all necessary documents to the relevant Greek authorities, your visa will be processed within a month. Your Greece Digital Nomad Visa will usually be issued within ten days. The exact processing time, however, is determined by when the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum begins processing your application.

The Benefits of Being a Digital Nomad in Greece

Greece offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. From the white-washed buildings of the Greek islands to the bustling city of Athens, there’s something for everyone. As a digital nomad, you’ll have access to all of these beautiful and diverse landscapes, making it easy to find inspiration and motivation for your work.

But it’s not just the scenery that makes Greece a great destination for digital nomads. The cost of living is relatively low compared to many other European countries, meaning you can stretch your budget further. Plus, with a rich culture and history, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore and learn outside of your work.

Popular Destinations for Digital Nomads in Greece

Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece, and it’s no surprise that it’s a popular destination for digital nomads. With a vibrant startup scene and plenty of coworking spaces, Athens is a great place to network and make connections.

The Greek islands are also a popular destination, with Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos being some of the most well-known. These picturesque islands offer a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere and are perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

For those looking to explore the mainland, Thessaloniki and Chania are both great options. Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece and has a thriving startup scene, while Chania is a charming town on the island of Crete that’s steeped in history.

Tips for Digital Nomads Visiting Greece

Finding affordable accommodation can be a challenge for digital nomads in Greece, but there are plenty of options available. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com are great places to start, and you can also look into renting a room in a local’s apartment through platforms like Roomster or CouchSurfing.

Navigating the public transportation system can be tricky, but with a little research, you’ll quickly get the hang of it. Websites like Rome2Rio and Google Maps are great resources for planning your route and finding the best options for getting around.

Coworking spaces and communities are becoming increasingly popular in Greece, so it’s easy to find other digital nomads to connect with. Websites like Coworker and Workfrom are great resources for finding coworking spaces, and Facebook groups and Meetup groups are also good ways to connect with other digital nomads.

Finally, it’s important to stay safe and avoid common scams. Always be aware of your surroundings and don’t leave your valuables unattended. If someone approaches you with an offer that seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Greece is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history, making it the perfect destination for digital nomads. With its affordable cost of living, high-speed internet, and abundance of coworking spaces, it’s easy to combine work and travel. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to make the most out of your time in Greece while legally residing in the country. The process of obtaining a Greece Digital Nomad Visa may seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation, guidance, and the right documents, you will be able to unlock the door to this amazing country, and experience the culture and lifestyle that it has to offer while working remotely. So, start planning your dream work-life balance in Greece today, and make your next adventure a reality.