Immigrate to Greece From the US

Cost of Moving to Greece

Relocating to Greece involves several expenses:

• Shipping Household Goods: $3,000–$7,000, depending on the volume.

• Customs Fees: Personal effects may require proof of ownership to avoid taxes.

• Flights: Round-trip airfare ranges from $800–$1,200, depending on the season.

Pro Tip: Consider selling bulky items in the US and repurchasing locally to reduce shipping costs.

Visa and Residency Requirements

US citizens can stay in Greece for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. For longer stays, consider:

• Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers staying 6 months or more.

• Golden Visa: Requires purchasing property worth $250,000 or more.

• Family or Work Visa: For those joining family or employed by a Greek company.

Step-by-Step Guide for Residency Permits:

1. Gather required documents: passport, proof of income, and health insurance.

2. Submit your application at the Greek consulate in the US.

3. Complete biometric data collection after arrival in Greece.

Healthcare and Education

Healthcare in Greece

Greece has a public healthcare system supplemented by affordable private options.

• Costs: Public healthcare is free for residents, but private services offer faster access and range from $50–$100 per visit.

• Access: US citizens must enroll in local health insurance or purchase private coverage.

Education in Greece

Expats have several options for schooling:

• Public Schools: Free but primarily taught in Greek.

• International Schools: Located in Athens and Thessaloniki, offering English or bilingual curricula.

Immigrating to Greece

Moving Checklist

Organize your move with this detailed checklist:

1. Documentation: Prepare your passport, visa, and financial proof.

2. Housing: Secure temporary accommodation while searching for a long-term rental.

3. Health Insurance: Ensure coverage meets residency requirements.

4. Shipping and Customs: Arrange for shipping and customs clearance for personal belongings.

5. Banking: Open a local bank account for rent and daily expenses.

Food & Drink

Greece is famous for its Mediterranean cuisine. Popular dishes include:

• Moussaka: A baked casserole with eggplant, meat, and béchamel sauce.

• Souvlaki: Skewered grilled meat served with pita and tzatziki.

• Baklava: A sweet dessert made of layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey.

For Familiar Flavors: Many supermarkets in urban areas carry American products, and international restaurants can be found in cities like Athens.

Culture

Greek culture is rich in history, tradition, and hospitality.

• Punctuality: Greeks are generally relaxed about time.

• Festivals: Join local celebrations like Easter and Oxi Day to experience authentic traditions.

• Social Customs: Greeks value family and community, often enjoying meals together for hours.