Greece offers various residence permits, catering to different purposes such as work, study, and family reunification. The process generally starts with obtaining a national D visa, followed by applying for a residence permit upon arrival in Greece.
The D visa, valid for a year, is the first step for those planning to stay in Greece longer and apply for a residence permit. It allows entry into Greece and the Schengen Area. The application involves an interview at a Greek consulate, submission of required documents, and payment of fees. Documents needed include a completed application form, a recent color photograph, a valid passport, a criminal record certificate, a medical certificate, an insurance policy, and additional documents based on the stay's purpose. The fee for a D visa is generally €180, with some exceptions like studies or family reunification, where it's reduced to €90.
After entering Greece with a D visa, the next step is to apply for a residence permit card. This application must be filed in person, either by the applicant, their lawyer, or a first-degree relative, at the Aliens and Migration Directorate or the Directorate of Migration Policy. The process includes fingerprinting for biometric data, essential for issuing the residence permit card.
Required documents for the residence permit application include a completed application form, a certified copy of a valid passport or travel document, a receipt for the application fee, a receipt for the issuance fee of the residence permit card, an insurance policy, four printed passport-type color photographs (and an original on a CD), and additional documents depending on the type of residence permit.
The application fee varies based on the permit's validity: €150 for a 1-year permit, €300 for a 2-year permit, and €450 for a 3-year permit, with some exceptions. Children under 18 are exempt from this fee. The issuance fee for the residence permit card is €16 for all applications.
The Greek government provides online services to facilitate the application process for both the D visa and the residence permit, making it easier for applicants to navigate the requirements and submit their applications efficiently.
For those looking to move to Greece, understanding these processes and preparing the necessary documentation in advance can significantly smooth the transition, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of residing in this beautiful country.
Prepared on the information from immigrantinvest.com