Overview
The Greek programme begins with a 12-month type-D visa, which you convert into a two-year Digital Nomad Residence Permit after arriving — renewable in further two-year periods.
As of February 2026, in-country applications were abolished, so the residence permit must be initiated through a Greek consulate abroad.
Editor's note — The 50% tax exemption is one of Europe's most generous — but it only pays off if you actually relocate your tax residency to Greece and meet the prior non-residency test.
Who is eligible
- Non-EU/EEA national working remotely for employers or clients outside Greece.
- Stable monthly income of at least €3,500 (after tax) from foreign sources.
- A declaration that you will not provide services to Greek companies.
- Valid health insurance and a clean criminal record.
- Proof of the purpose of stay and remote employment/freelance activity.
Income & financial requirements
Net, from non-Greek sources, evidenced over recent months.
Added to the income requirement for a spouse.
Added to the income requirement for each child.
Of qualifying income, for up to seven years.
You must show net monthly income of at least €3,500, rising by 20% for a spouse and 15% per child. Bank statements, employment contracts and invoices serve as proof.
The income must originate outside Greece — the visa explicitly prohibits providing services to Greek-based clients.
Costs & fees
- Visa and residence-permit application fees (a few hundred euros combined, including the administrative fee and card).
- Health insurance valid in Greece for the duration of stay.
- Translations, apostilles and any legal assistance with the consular filing.
Taxes
Greece offers a headline 50% income-tax exemption for up to seven years to individuals who transfer their tax residency to Greece and were not Greek tax residents for five of the previous six years.
Combined with Greece's lower cost of living, the incentive can be highly attractive — but it requires genuinely becoming a Greek tax resident, so weigh the worldwide-income implications.
How to apply
Prepare your file
Income proof, insurance, criminal record, and a declaration of remote work for foreign clients.
Apply at the consulate
Submit the type-D digital nomad visa application abroad (in-country applications ended Feb 2026).
Move to Greece
Enter on the 12-month visa.
Convert to a residence permit
Apply for the two-year Digital Nomad Residence Permit and, if eligible, elect the 50% tax regime.
Duration & renewal
The initial visa lasts 12 months; the residence permit is valid for two years and renewable in two-year increments as long as conditions are met.
Bringing family
Family members can accompany the main applicant, with the income requirement increased by 20% for a spouse and 15% per child.
Pros & cons
Advantages
- 50% income-tax exemption for up to seven years
- Low cost of living and exceptional lifestyle
- Renewable two-year residence permit
- Schengen access
Considerations
- In-country applications no longer accepted (consulate only)
- Requires becoming a Greek tax resident to use the break
- Bureaucracy can be slow
- No services to Greek clients permitted