Moving to Greece need not be solo; here is how to bring the whole family.
- 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.
- Its coastline stretches about 13,600 km, among the longest in the world.
The Golden Visa is a residence permit, distinct from citizenship, which still requires real, lengthy residence.
An immigration file needs a police clearance and personal documents, notarised and legalised.
Sponsoring a spouse
Family reunion allows sponsoring a spouse and children under EU rules.
Long-term EU permanent residence can be sought after five years of lawful residence.
Citizenship processing can be lengthy, so prepare a thorough file to avoid repeated requests.
Children and schooling
Greek degrees are recognised across the EU under the Bologna Process.
Scholarships come from the Greek state, the EU's Erasmus+ and individual universities.
Strong fields include maritime studies, archaeology, tourism-hospitality and medicine.
Sponsoring parents
After seven years of lawful, continuous residence, foreigners may apply for Greek citizenship.
Naturalisation requires proof of integration plus knowledge of Greek language, history and culture.
Greece permits dual citizenship, so applicants can usually keep their original nationality.
Dependant benefits
Rents outside central Athens are often softer than in many Western European cities.
- 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.
- 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.
Extra costs and steps
The Golden Visa residence card is valid for five years and renews while the investment is held.
The programme sets no minimum-stay requirement, which suits busy investors.
The permit covers the whole family, including spouse, dependent children and both sets of parents.
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.
Related articles
- Property investment in Greece: return potential
- Settling into Greece: your first six months
- Immigration & Citizenship
Frequently asked questions
Which family members can join a resident in Greece?
Residents can usually bring a spouse and minor children, and in some cases dependent adult children or parents, depending on their permit type. Golden Visa holders can include eligible family members in the same application. Exact rules depend on current legislation.
What must the sponsoring resident show?
Typically lawful residence for the required period, stable income sufficient for the family, suitable accommodation, health insurance for all members and proof of genuine family relationships. The income requirement generally increases with the number of dependants.
What documents prove family relationships?
Marriage certificates, children's birth certificates naming both parents, custody documents after divorce and, where needed, consent from the other parent. All must be translated and legalised as required. Authorities may verify that relationships are genuine.
Can family members work in Greece?
It depends on the permit. Family reunification with workers or long-term residents often gives access to the labour market under certain conditions, while family members on a Golden Visa generally cannot work as employees. Check the work rights stated on each permit.
What schooling options exist for children who relocate?
Children can attend free Greek public schools taught in Greek, often with language support classes, or private and international schools teaching in English or other languages, mainly in Athens and Thessaloniki. The right choice depends on long-term plans and the child's language skills.
Information is for reference and may change under the latest official policy. Please contact us for current regulations.
