Stable housing is the first foundation of a new life in Greece.
- Greece counts more than 6,000 islands and islets, of which roughly 200 are inhabited.
- It has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, sunny winters.
- Its coastline stretches about 13,600 km, among the longest in the world.
The public health system (ESY) serves residents, though many add private insurance.
Residence holders must register a tax number (AFM) and a social-security number.
Renting as a newcomer
Opening a bank account requires a passport, tax number and residence documents.
Summers can be very hot, so choose a home with air-conditioning and near the sea if possible.
The cost of living in Greece is among the most comfortable in the EU.
Buying and ownership
Greece runs a Golden Visa programme granting residence to real-estate investors.
Since August 2024 the minimum investment rose to around EUR 800,000 in prime areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos and Santorini.
In many other areas the threshold is roughly EUR 400,000, with lower tiers for certain heritage-restoration projects.
Neighbourhoods to consider
Mykonos draws visitors with its beaches, windmills and lively nightlife.
- Crete, the largest island, is rich in Minoan heritage and beautiful beaches.
- Meteora astonishes with monasteries perched atop towering rock pillars.
- The best time to visit is late spring and early autumn, avoiding the hot, crowded peak summer.
- Vietnamese travellers can obtain a short-stay Schengen visa to visit Greece.
- Island-hopping is mainly by ferry, so book ahead in high season.
Contracts and legal notes
Public transport in Athens includes a convenient metro, buses and trams.
Fresh food, sunny weather and a relaxed pace are big pluses.
The Vietnamese community is small but present in Athens.
Settling in
Rents outside central Athens are often softer than in many Western European cities.
A European Union member since 1981 and part of the eurozone, Greece uses the euro (EUR).
Greece belongs to the Schengen Area, allowing free movement across much of Europe.
Need a tailored roadmap?
Viking Global Group walks with you from paperwork to settlement. Call +849.219.219.88 or email [email protected] for a free consultation.
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Frequently asked questions
Should newcomers rent or buy in Greece?
Most newcomers benefit from renting first to learn about neighbourhoods, commuting, schools and real costs before buying. Buying immediately mainly makes sense for Golden Visa applicants who must own property, and even then thorough legal checks are essential.
What should tenants know about renting?
A Greek tax number is needed to sign a lease, contracts are usually registered with the tax authority, deposits are standard, and heating, insulation and building charges should be checked. Rents in Athens and tourist areas have risen, so start searching early and beware of online rental scams.
Which areas of Athens do expats often choose?
Many expatriates choose quieter northern and southern suburbs near international schools or the coastal south, while younger residents often prefer lively central neighbourhoods. Areas differ in price, transport, noise and amenities, so visit at different times of day.
What should buyers check before purchasing?
Title and land registry records, mortgages and liens, building permits and unauthorised additions, energy certificates, structural condition and seismic resilience, and unpaid property taxes. A lawyer, an engineer and a notary are all essential to a safe purchase.
Is island or mainland living a better fit?
Islands offer beauty and a slow pace but quiet winters, limited healthcare, schools and jobs, and dependence on ferries. Cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki provide fuller services. Remote workers and retirees may enjoy islands, while families often prefer the cities.
Information is for reference and may change under the latest official policy. Please contact us for current regulations.
