The first six months largely decide how well you settle in Greece.
- It has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, sunny winters.
- 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.
Residence holders must register a tax number (AFM) and a social-security number.
Public transport in Athens includes a convenient metro, buses and trams.
First admin tasks
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.
- Fresh food, sunny weather and a relaxed pace are big pluses.
- The Vietnamese community is small but present in Athens.
- 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.
Bank account and SIM
The cost of living in Greece is among the most comfortable in the EU.
The official language is Greek, while English is widely spoken in tourism and larger cities.
Greece counts more than 6,000 islands and islets, of which roughly 200 are inhabited.
Schools for children
International students may work part-time within the hours set by their study visa.
Greek degrees are recognised across the EU under the Bologna Process.
Scholarships come from the Greek state, the EU's Erasmus+ and individual universities.
Building community
Greek uses its own alphabet and is one of the oldest languages still spoken.
Wine and ouzo are traditional drinks at gatherings.
Greece is the cradle of philosophy, democracy, drama and the Olympic Games.
Beating culture shock
Greece lies in Southeastern Europe at the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula on the Mediterranean.
The capital, Athens, is the political and economic hub and the birthplace of Western democracy.
Greece has a population of about 10.4 million, most following Greek Orthodox Christianity.
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
What should newcomers prioritise in their first six months in Greece?
Complete residence formalities, obtain a tax number and bank account, register for health coverage, secure stable housing, enrol children in school and start learning Greek. Once basics are settled, focus on building local connections and understanding how local administration works.
How difficult is Greek bureaucracy?
Procedures can be slow and paperwork-heavy, and many offices operate mainly in Greek, although many services are now available through the government's online portal. Preparing translated documents, booking appointments and using a lawyer or accountant early on saves time.
How can newcomers overcome the language barrier early on?
Learn essential phrases from the start, join language classes for migrants, use translation apps during appointments and bring a Greek-speaking friend when possible. Greeks appreciate any effort to speak their language, even a few words.
How can newcomers build a support network?
Get to know neighbours, attend local festivals, join sports clubs and expatriate groups, and connect with your national community. Personal relationships matter a great deal in Greece and often help with everything from finding tradespeople to job leads.
When does life in Greece start to feel settled?
Usually when residence paperwork is complete, housing and income are stable, children are comfortable at school, you have a trusted doctor, basic Greek is manageable and you have friends to call on. Each family's pace differs, and patience in the early months is vital.
Information is for reference and may change under the latest official policy. Please contact us for current regulations.
