Comprehensive Guide for Moving In Greece
Are you thinking about moving to Greece from UAE? Move to Greece can be an exciting and rewarding experience, whether for work, retirement, or to immerse yourself in a new culture. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Greece is a popular destination for ex-pats worldwide.
Relocating to Greece can be challenging, especially if you have to move all your belongings. However, companies like ISS Relocations, a multinational moving company, can help make the process much smoother. ISS offers various services to help you move your belongings to your new home in Greece.
Benefits of Moving to Greece
If you’re an American and move to Greece, you should be aware of all the benefits of the country. Greece is a country that offers a variety of advantages that you should take into account. So let’s explore the advantages and expenses of living in Greece.
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Affordable Cost of Living
Greece offers an affordable cost of living compared to other European countries, making it a popular destination for those seeking a high-quality life without excessive expenses. The cost of housing, groceries, and transportation is generally lower in Greece than in other parts of Europe.
Beautiful Weather
The Mediterranean location of Greece allows for a warm and sunny climate throughout the year, perfect for people who love outdoor activities like swimming in the sea, exploring mountains, or strolling in the countryside.
Rich Culture
Greek culture is rich in history, art, architecture, music, and cuisine, and living in Greece provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in this culture and experience it firsthand. Greece has something for everyone, from the ancient ruins of Athens to the islands’ stunning beaches.
How To Move To Greece
Moving to Greece from Kuwait can be simple and straightforward if you have all your Visa requirements in order. People originating from certain countries may not require a visa to move to the country. Therefore, it is imperative that you seek direct assistance from the Foreign Ministry to keep a track of your visa requirement so that the application process can be conducted smoothly.
Additional queries in the form of housing requirements, education, healthcare, can be addressed by enquiring with the local Greek embassy. For any kind of moving assistance be sure to collaborate with expert companies such as ISS.
ISS Relocations offers moving services to and from Greece to:
Dubai, UAE Oman Qatar Bahrain Saudi Arabia Kuwait India
Trusted International Moving to Greece
Make your move to Greece effortless with ISS Relocations. We handle packing, shipping, and customs—delivering a smooth relocation experience tailored to your needs.
Moving To Greece – Visa’s Requirements
Emigrating to Greece has can be a thrilling and transformative experience. Nonetheless, it is crucial to be aware of the visa prerequisites for residing and working in this stunning Mediterranean nation before you start packing your belongings and embarking on your journey.
- Short-Stay Visa (Type C):
The first type of visa is meant for people who plan to stay in Greece for a short time, no more than 90 days in six months. It is available for various purposes, such as tourism, business, and transit. One must demonstrate that they have enough money to support themselves during their stay and provide valid travel insurance. - Long-Stay Visa (Type D):
The second type of visa is for people who want to stay in Greece for over 90 days, up to a year. It is meant for purposes such as work, study, family reunification, and research. - Student Visa:
The third type of visa is for non-EU/EEA citizens who plan on being a greek mover to study. The visa is issued for the duration of the study program and enables students to work part-time during their studies. - Work Visa:
Non-EU/EEA citizens who wish to work in Greece can apply for a specific job and employer through a visa. However, the employer must provide a work contract or permit application. - Investor Visa:
For non-EU/EEA citizens who want to invest in Greece, a different type of visa is available. To obtain this visa, applicants need to complete certain steps before the Greece moving process.
Here are the visa requirements for each type of visa available for non-EU and EEA citizens in Greece:
- Short-Stay Visa (Type C):
- Complete visa application form.
- Submit a valid passport or travel document.
- Provide two recent passport-size photos.
- Proof of accommodation in Greece, which could be a hotel reservation or rental agreement.
- Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay in Greece, which could be bank statements or traveler’s cheques.
- Valid travel insurance policy covering medical and repatriation expenses.
- Long-Stay Visa (Type D):
- Complete visa application form.
- Submit a valid passport or travel document.
- Provide two recent passport-size photos.
- Proof of accommodation in Greece, which could be a rental agreement or proof of property ownership.
- Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay in Greece, which could be bank statements, employment contracts, scholarships, etc.
- Proof of health insurance covering medical and hospitalization expenses.
- A Document that proves your reason for staying in Greece, such as a work contract, a letter of acceptance from a university, or proof of family reunification.
- Student Visa:
- Complete visa application form
- Provide a valid passport or travel document
- Submit two recent passport-size photos
- Show proof of enrollment in a Greek educational institution
- Present evidence of accommodation in Greece, such as a rental agreement or proof of property ownership
- Provide evidence of financial means to support yourself during your stay, such as bank statements, scholarships, or a sponsor’s affidavit.
- Show a valid travel insurance policy that covers medical and repatriation expenses.
- Work Visa:
- Complete visa application form
- Provide a valid passport or travel document
- Submit two recent passport-size photos
- Provide a work permit application or employment contract from a Greek employer
- Show proof of accommodation in Greece, such as a rental agreement or proof of property ownership
- Provide evidence of financial means to support yourself during your stay, such as bank statements or salary statements
- Show a valid travel insurance policy that covers medical and repatriation expenses
- Investor Visa:
- Complete visa application form
- Provide a valid passport or travel document
- Submit two recent passport-size photos
- Show proof of investment in Greece, such as a purchase agreement, a lease agreement, or a bank statement.
- Provide evidence of accommodation in Greece, such as a rental agreement or proof of property ownership.
- Provide evidence of financial means to support yourself during your stay, such as bank statements or income statements.
- Show a valid travel insurance policy that covers medical and repatriation expenses.
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Best Cities To Living In Greece
If you are considering moving to Greece, you may be curious about the best cities to live in. Many people are considering removals to Greece to enjoy the country’s warm climate and beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the top cities to consider:
Athens – The Capital City
Athens, one of the most renowned cities in the world, is the capital of Greece. The city boasts a rich history dating back thousands of years and is home to several ancient landmarks, including the Parthenon, the Acropolis, and the Ancient Agora. Athens has a lively city center, vibrant nightlife, and a thriving arts and culture scene. The city also houses several prestigious universities and research centers, making it an excellent option for students and academics.
Thessaloniki – The Cultural Capital
Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, is renowned for its abundant cultural heritage. The city has several museums, art galleries, and cultural events, including the Thessaloniki International Film Festival and the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival. Thessaloniki is also a hub for tech startups and has a growing startup scene. We can surely assist you in relocating with all your luggage as we are one of the most connected moving companies in Greece.
Heraklion – The Island City
Heraklion, the largest city on the island of Crete, is renowned for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and warm climate. The city has a rich history and is home to several ancient landmarks, including the Palace of Knossos, the Venetian Walls, and the Koules Fortress. Heraklion is an excellent choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities, as it is located near several national parks and nature reserves.
Cost Of Moving To Greece
Here are some of the key expenses you’ll need to consider when moving to Greece:
- Visa Fees:
If you are planning to visit Greece, you may need to obtain a visa based on your nationality. The price of the visa may differ depending on the type and length of the visa required. For instance, a short-term Schengen visa, which is the most common visa among movers in Greece, will cost you €80, whereas a long-term national visa will cost €180. - Utilities:
If you plan on renting a property in Greece, you should also consider the cost of utilities such as electricity, water, and gas, which may cost around €100 – €150 per month on average. - Healthcare:
Greece provides a national healthcare system that offers free or low-cost medical care to citizens and legal residents. However, if you are not eligible for this system, you will need to obtain private health insurance, which can cost around €1,000 – €2,000 per year.
Housing In Greece
Here is a table that provides a rough breakdown of housing costs in Greece:
| Expense | Monthly Cost in (EUR) |
| Rent (1 bedroom apartment in the city center) | 400 – 700 |
| Rent (3 bedroom apartment in the city center) | 800 – 1,500 |
| Rent (1 bedroom apartment outside the city center) | 300 – 500 |
| Rent (3 bedroom apartment outside the city center) | 600 – 1,200 |
| Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) | 100 – 200 |
| Mobile phone plan | 10 – 30 |
| Property tax (annual) | 50 – 500 |
| Home insurance (annual) | 100 – 300 |
*Note: The costs may vary depending on the location and personal preferences.
HealthCare System In Greece
In Greece, healthcare services are provided by a mix of public and private healthcare providers. The government funds the public healthcare system, which offers free or affordable medical care to citizens and legal residents. Private healthcare providers, however, are funded by individuals or private insurance and offer better quality healthcare services, albeit at a higher cost.
The National Healthcare Service (ESY) is responsible for managing the public healthcare system in Greece, and it is financed by the government. ESY provides medical care to all citizens and legal residents of the country, as well as visitors from other EU nations who hold a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Taxation In Greece
The Greek government heavily relies on taxation as a primary source of income to support the country’s public services and infrastructure projects. The tax system in Greece is intricate, and it can pose difficulties for both individuals and companies to navigate. The Greek tax system is comprehensive and covers a wide range of taxes such as income tax, corporate tax, value-added tax (VAT), property tax, and social security contributions. Income tax in Greece is progressive, which means that higher-income earners are subject to higher tax rates. Corporate tax rates are variable and are dependent on the type of business and profit levels.
Education System In Greece
Greece has a captivating history of education that dates back to ancient times, which is considered the starting point of western civilization. The nation boasts several well-known educational establishments, such as universities and technical schools, which provide exceptional educational opportunities to students.
The education system in Greece is mandatory and accessible to all children aged between six to fifteen years old. The primary education program is separated into two cycles, the first one takes six years, and the second one is three years. Throughout this period, students receive comprehensive education, including courses in Greek language and literature, mathematics, science, history, and physical education.
Work Market In Greece
In recent years, Greece has implemented new policies to promote job creation and reduce unemployment, resulting in significant changes in the job market. Greece’s shipping industry is well-established, and its technology sector is rapidly expanding, attracting international investment. Olive oil, wine, and other food products are some of the country’s primary exports, and agriculture and manufacturing are critical industries.
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FAQs
How do I move to Greece from UAE?
To move to Greece from the UAE, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate visa or residence permit, depending on your reason for moving (work, study, family reunification, etc.). The process involves gathering necessary documentation, such as job contracts or proof of sufficient funds. ISS Relocations can assist you with the visa application, finding accommodation, and handling logistics, ensuring a smooth transition to Greece.
Is it worth moving to Greece from UAE?
Moving to Greece from the UAE offers a unique blend of history, culture, and quality of life. Greece provides a lower cost of living compared to the UAE, and many expats find the Mediterranean lifestyle appealing. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant cities or the tranquil islands, Greece offers a great balance of work and leisure. ISS Relocations can help you navigate the entire relocation process, from visa assistance to finding your new home in Greece.
Is it a good idea to move to Greece from UAE?
Greece offers a fantastic quality of life, with beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and Mediterranean cuisine. The relaxed lifestyle and low cost of living make it an attractive destination for expatriates. ISS Relocations can guide you through the entire process of moving to Greece, from visa applications to finding the best places to live.
How can I move to Greece permanently from UAE?
To move to Greece permanently from the UAE, you must apply for a long-term residence visa, such as the work, family reunification, or investment visa. Once approved, you can apply for permanent residency after several years of residence. ISS Relocations offers comprehensive support, from initial paperwork and housing to long-term settling-in services, ensuring that your move to Greece is seamless and stress-free.
Is Greece friendly to expats?
Yes, Greece is very welcoming to expats, with a large international community. Many expats live in major cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, or on popular islands like Crete and Rhodes. Greece’s relaxed lifestyle, warm climate, and rich culture make it an attractive destination. ISS Relocations provides tailored services to help expats integrate into Greek society, from paperwork to finding housing, making the relocation process easier.
What are the requirements for moving to Greece as a foreigner?
To move to Greece as a foreigner, you must possess a valid visa or residency permit. Specific requirements may differ based on the reason for your visit. Hence it’s advisable to contact the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country for more information.
What is the cost of living like in Greece?
The cost of living in Greece varies depending on your location and lifestyle. In general, living in Greece can be cheaper compared to other European countries. However, certain imported goods might be costly.
What language is spoken in Greece?
Greek is the official language spoken in Greece, but English is commonly spoken, too, mainly in tourist areas.
What is the weather like in Greece?
Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot and dry summers and mild winters. However, the weather can vary depending on your location, with some regions experiencing cooler temperatures in the winter and more rainfall.
Can I move to Greece to live from UAE?
Yes, you can move to Greece for work, studies, family reunification, or through an investment program. The residency process may vary depending on your reason for moving. ISS Relocations assists with visa applications, relocation services, and settling into your new life in Greece, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition.
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