Visa for Digital Nomads in Greece: How to apply?
Learn about the requirements and the process to get the new Visa for Digital Nomads in Greece and live a European experience
If you’re a digital nomad looking to settle in Europe, you have probably heard about the visa for digital nomads in Greece. This program is an initiative of the Greek government to attract remote professionals and freelancers to settle in the country, offering a warm climate, a rich culture, and high-speed internet connectivity.
In case you’re interested in this visa for digital nomads in Greece, but don’t know where to start, don’t worry. In this post, we will provide you with all the information you need to get your visa. That is, from the requirements to how you can connect to the internet in Greece once you’re here!
Since when can people apply for a Digital Nomad Visa?
Greece Digital Nomad Visa was established back in 2021. Watching the increment of remote workers, the country decided to create its own visa through Law 4825/2021.
Who can apply for a visa for digital nomads in Greece?
The Visa for Digital Nomads in Greece is designed for remote workers who want to live and work in Greece for an extended period. This visa is ideal for those who wish to enjoy the beauty of the country while working remotely.
To be eligible for the Visa for Digital Nomads in Greece, you have to make sure that you are eligible depending on several conditions. First, you must prove that you have a remote job and a steady income. You must also have health insurance and accommodation in Greece during your stay. So, if you meet these requirements, this visa is for you.
How does the visa for digital nomads in Greece work?
The visa for digital nomads in Greece works as follows. First, you need to gather all the necessary documentation, including a completed application form, an employment contract or proof of income for the last few months, a certificate of a clean criminal record, and a valid health insurance policy in Greece.
Once you have all the documents, you’ll need to email them to the Greek consulate in your home country or the nearest consulate. If your application is approved, you’ll receive a letter of acceptance that will allow you to travel to Greece and obtain a visa at the port of entry.
Important to realize that the Visa for Digital Nomads in Greece is quite different from the regular tourist visa. It allows you to stay in the country for a longer period and grants you additional benefits, such as the opportunity to work and start a business. You can also enjoy the following advantages:
Advantages of the visa for digital nomads in Greece
- It allows digital nomads to work and live in Greece for an extended period (up to one year).
- It’s not necessary to renew the visa after 90 days, as is the case with the tourist visa.
- Digital nomads can start a business and work with local clients in Greece.
- It provides an opportunity to explore and experience the culture and natural beauty of Greece.
- Greece offers a low cost of living compared to other countries in the European Union.
- Increased productivity.
- Enhance your language skills!
Disadvantages of the visa for digital nomads in Greece
- The application process can be complicated and time-consuming.
- You must meet certain requirements, such as having a remote job and a steady income, health insurance, and accommodation in Greece during your stay.
- You may have to pay taxes in both countries, your home country and Greece, which can be tricky.
Who can apply for the new digital nomad visa?
- Remote workers who want to live and work in a different country for an extended period.
- Entrepreneurs and businessmen who want to expand their business in the Greek market.
- Anyone who wants to enjoy the natural and cultural beauty of Greece while working and earning money.
Requirements to apply for the visa for digital nomads in Greece
If you’re interested in getting this new visa for digital nomads, you must first fill out an application form that you can find on the official website of the Greek consulate (U.S.A). Once you fill out the form, you must send it by mail or by going to a consulate office in your country along with the following requirements and/or documents.
- Copy of a valid passport.
- Present a job letter or a certification that proves that you’re currently working or that you own a company. Remember that any work activity must be outside of Greece.
- Proof of valid health insurance during the time of your stay.
- Certificate of a clean criminal record.
- Proof of income greater than $3,500 USD plus $700 for each family member who is a dependent.
- Proof of payment of the fees set by the Greek Institution or Ministry ($75 for visa application and $150 for administrative fees).
- Must apply from a country outside the UE.
Duration of the visa for digital nomads in Greece
As if the advantages mentioned above were not enough, one of the main features of the visa for digital nomads in Greece is that you can spend a whole year in this European country. And you have the possibility of extending the visa for an additional year, that is, you can stay two years in a row, according to the Greek consulate (U.S.A). Certainly, long enough to fall in love with the Greek culture.
Why is Greece one of the best destinations for remote work?
Greece is known for its stunning natural beauty, with white-sandy beaches, towering mountains, and ancient, historic ruins. In addition, the country boasts a rich culture, with vibrant arts and culinary scenes that invite digital nomads to enjoy the history and culture of Greece while working and exploring the country. As if that were not enough, Greece is also one of the safest countries in Europe, with a relatively low crime rate. This means that you can enjoy peace of mind and security while you work and live here.
Moreover, you’ll enjoy other important advantages, such as:
Greece is one of the countries with the lowest cost of living
One of the biggest advantages of living in Greece with the digital nomad visa is the low cost of living. Unlike other European countries, the cost of living in Greece is relatively low, which means that digital nomads can enjoy a good quality of life at an affordable cost. Rent and food prices are lower than in other parts of Europe, which means that digital nomads can enjoy a comfortable and affordable lifestyle while working and exploring the country.
Mediterranean climate
Another great advantage of living in Greece with a digital nomad visa is the Mediterranean climate. Greece’s Mediterranean climate offers long, hot summers and mild winters, meaning digital nomads can enjoy the sun and beaches for much of the year. This not only means that digital nomads can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle while working, but they can also make the most of their spare time outdoors. For example, practicing water sports in the sea and exploring the national parks and mountains of Greece.
How do digital nomads in Greece connect to the internet?
For digital nomads, a reliable internet connection is essential. Fortunately, in Greece, there are several options for connecting to the internet while working and exploring the country. One of the most convenient options is the data eSIM for Greece, which allows digital nomads to connect to the internet without having to worry about buying a physical SIM card or looking around for free WiFi. In addition, there are also options such as Pocket WiFi and the SIM card to have data in Greece, which we will detail one by one below.
Data eSIM to have internet in Greece
As we mentioned before, the data eSIM is an excellent option for digital nomads who want a reliable and hassle-free internet connection in Greece. In addition to being an affordable option, getting one of these cards is quick and you can do it instantly from anywhere in the world since it’s a digital product.
The best option to buy a data eSIM in Greece is to buy it with Holafly because here we offer the most competitive rates and easy online activation. In addition, we offer exceptional unlimited data coverage throughout Greece with the Vodafone/Wind cellular network, the best carrier in the country.
One special feature is that you’ll be able to share data with this eSIM. Even though you get an unlimited data package, people can share up to 500MBs of data with other devices. This additional service is available in other destinations for nomads, such as with the Italy eSIM with unlimited data!
SIM card to have internet in Greece
The SIM card is another safe option for digital nomads who want to go online and connect to the internet in Greece. SIM cards can be purchased at cellphone shops and airports and can be used in any SIM-compatible device.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that buying a SIM card can be a more complicated process than buying an eSIM since digital nomads would have to go in person to visit a store of a Greek operator to get their SIM card. Also, they must check if the cellphone’s network frequencies are compatible, etc.
Pocket WiFi to have internet in Greece
Another popular option for digital nomads in Greece is Pocket WiFi. This is a small device that can be taken anywhere and enables an internet connection through a private cellular network. It’s possible to get a Pocket WiFi at the airport or rent it before traveling.
However, it should be noted that Pocket WiFi is one of the most expensive options to get internet in Greece. And, based on what they offer, it’s rarely worth renting or buying one.
Other countries that also have a visa for digital nomads
Lastly, while Greece is a great option for digital nomads thanks to its specific visa and internet infrastructure, many other countries offer similar visas. Today, more and more countries are recognizing the value of remote workers and digital nomads and are implementing policies and legislation to attract more. If you’re looking for destination options to work and travel at the same time, we recommend you take a look at the following list:
List of countries with visas for digital nomads
- Anguilla
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Arab Emirates
- Aruba
- Barbados
- Bermuda
- Brazil
- Cabo Verde
- Cayman Islands
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Curaçao
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Dominica
- Dubai
- Ecuador
- Estonia
- Georgia
- Germany
- Greece
- Grenada
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Indonesia
- Italy
- Letonia
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Norway
- Panama
- Portugal
- Romania
- Spain
- Thailand