Greece

Greece, with its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has opened its doors to a new era of exploration through the introduction of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa. This innovative visa program invites remote workers and digital nomads to experience the charm of Greece while continuing their professional pursuits in a flexible and inspiring environment.

Yes. Launched in 2021, the Greece digital nomad visa was introduced to facilitate remote work and attract individuals engaged in digital nomadism.

Eligibility for the Greece digital nomad visa extends to individuals who are not citizens of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) and are employed by a company registered outside Greece, relying on an internet connection for their work.

To qualify for the Greece digital nomad visa, you must fulfill specific eligibility criteria, which include being a non-European Union (EU) citizen, having a verifiable income, possessing the capability and authorization to work remotely, maintaining a clear criminal record, and obtaining health insurance coverage.

For a Greece digital nomad visa application, the essential documents include a valid passport, a completed visa application form, evidence of paid visa and administrative fees, a recent colored ID photograph, a clear criminal record certificate, travel/health insurance covering the visa duration, a medical certificate confirming no contagious illnesses, a written declaration affirming no employment with Greek-based entities, a contractual agreement with a foreign company/client, details about your role in the company or, if self-employed, information about your business. Additionally, submission of a contract of employment or a bank statement demonstrating a net income is required.

When seeking a Greece Digital Nomad Visa, remote workers are required to demonstrate compliance with financial prerequisites. The primary applicant needs to verify a minimum monthly income of €3,500. In cases where the income is derived from dependent employment or independent service provision, the €3,500 pertains to net income after tax deductions. Additionally, dependents can apply for residency permits alongside the main applicant, with financial requirements increasing by 20% for a partner/spouse and 15% for each child.

The specific requirements regarding the physical presence in Greece for digital nomad visa holders can vary, so it's crucial to review the terms of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa program and consult with official sources or immigration authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

In general, some digital nomad visa programs do not require continuous physical presence in the host country, allowing flexibility for remote work. However, certain visa programs may have specific conditions, such as a minimum number of days to be spent in the country or periodic reporting.

You have the option to bring your immediate family members with you under the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, provided you fulfill all the necessary requirements.

Launched in 2021, the Greece digital nomad visa provides an appealing avenue for individuals engaged in digital nomadism, extending its benefits to individuals from India. This visa is open to non-EU citizens employed by companies registered outside Greece, who depend on remote work. To meet eligibility criteria, applicants must demonstrate non-EU citizenship, a verifiable income, remote work capability, a clean criminal record, and obtain health insurance. The required documents include a valid passport, completed visa application, proof of fees, ID photograph, criminal record certificate, travel insurance, medical certificate, and a declaration of non-employment with Greek-based entities. Financial prerequisites involve a minimum monthly income of €3,500, with the option for dependents to apply, subject to increased financial requirements.

For Indian citizens aspiring to explore this opportunity, the Greece Digital Nomad Visa allows flexibility, as visa holders are not obliged to stay in Greece continuously, accommodating the lifestyle of remote work. The application fee for the visa is €75. Taxation comes into play if staying over six months, with a progressive income tax rate. A notable incentive is the 50% reduction tax program, applicable after a two-year stay.

In the context of Indian citizens seeking the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, the processing time for visa approval is approximately ten business days. The initial visa is valid for one year, and its duration can be extended up to three years through a residence permit application. In cases where eligibility for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is not met, exploring alternative visa options is advisable for Indian citizens seeking to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle in Greece.

To initiate the application process for a Greece digital nomad visa, follow these steps:

1. Schedule an appointment with your local Greek consulate or embassy
2. Gather the required documents.
3. Complete the application form.
4. Attend the scheduled appointment.
5. Fulfill payment requirements.
6. Await a response.
7. Travel to Greece.

The cost of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is €75 per applicant, representing fees for services provided by the Greek embassy, and these fees are non-refundable.

Regarding taxation for digital nomads in Greece, if you spend fewer than six months in the country, you are exempt from income taxes. However, surpassing six months classifies you as a tax resident, subjecting you to a progressive income tax rate in Greece:

• Monthly income below €12,000: No income tax
• €12,000 to €16,000: 18% income tax
• €16,000 to €22,000: 24% income tax
• €22,000 to €26,000: 26% income tax
• €26,000 to €32,000: 32% income tax
• €32,000 to €40,000: 36% income tax
• €40,000 to €60,000: 38% income tax
• €60,000 to €100,000: 40% income tax
• Over €100,000: 45% income tax

Additionally, Greece offers a 50% reduction tax program, allowing for a halved tax rate. Eligibility for the 50% reduction tax can be applied after a minimum stay of two years in Greece.

Notification of the approval or rejection of a Digital Nomad Visa application in Greece typically occurs within ten business days from the submission date.

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa is initially valid for one year, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of three years. To prolong your stay beyond the first year, it is necessary to apply for a residence permit before the expiration of your digital nomad

If you find that you are not eligible for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, it's important to explore alternative visa options or consider other countries with digital nomad visa programs that may align with your qualifications and circumstances. Each country's visa policies vary, and some nations may have specific programs or visa categories suitable for remote workers and freelancers. Researching the requirements and eligibility criteria for different countries will help you identify alternative destinations that may better accommodate your digital nomad lifestyle. Additionally, consulting with immigration experts or legal professionals can provide personalized guidance on available options based on your individual situation.

Helen from Paris says: "Having obtained my digital nomad visa in May, I am now preparing to pursue permanent residency as the one-year validity of my visa approaches its end. Initiating the process, I am currently in the midst of acquiring the AFM, with the tax office proving to be a challenging step, despite having the D218 and a representative involved.

Regarding the permanent residency application, I am uncertain if I will need to resubmit the same set of documents as the initial visa application. Although this is not a significant issue for me, I have realized that I overlooked obtaining a copy of my criminal record check, potentially necessitating a new payment, which can be inconvenient.

Despite the potential cost of around 3,000 euros for professional assistance, I am beginning to appreciate the value, having visited the tax office and residency department multiple times. This experience has shed light on the complexity of the process, making me understand why some individuals opt to pay for professional assistance."