Residence Rights in Greece for EU Citizens and Their Non-EU Spouses – find out how WE can help here
Many international couples choose Greece as their place of residence because European Union law provides a clear route for both the EU citizen and their non-EU spouse to live legally in the country.
The process generally begins with the EU citizen establishing residence in Greece. Once the EU citizen has registered their residence, their non-EU spouse may apply for a Residence Card as a family member of an EU citizen.
Step 1 – Registration of the EU Citizen
An EU citizen may enter and reside in Greece freely.
If the stay exceeds three months, the EU citizen should obtain a Registration Certificate confirming their lawful residence in Greece. This certificate is commonly referred to as the EU Registration Certificate. (Υπουργείο Μετανάστευσης και Ασύλου)
After some criteria of lawful residence in Greece, the EU citizen acquires the right of permanent residence and may apply and obtain a Permit of Permanent Residence. This document confirms the right to reside in Greece indefinitely and is the basis for the rights on which their non EU spouse can also apply for a residency permit. (European Union)
Step 2 – Residence permit/Card for the Non-EU Spouse
Once the EU citizen has established residence in Greece, their spouse may apply for a Residence Card as a family member of an EU citizen.
This residence card allows the non-EU spouse to live legally in Greece and enjoy a wide range of rights derived from European Union law. (European Union)
Benefits of Holding a Residence Card
Right to Work
The holder of a Residence Card may work in Greece as an employee or engage in self-employment, subject to the normal tax and administrative registrations required in Greece.
This is one of the major advantages of obtaining residence as the family member of an EU citizen, as no separate work visa is normally required.
Opening a Greek Bank Account
A valid residence card greatly assists with obtaining a tax number (AFM), opening a Greek bank account, entering into utility contracts and carrying out everyday financial transactions.
Healthcare and Public Services
Residence status facilitates access to healthcare registration for the EU member, social security systems and other public services available under Greek law.
Travel within the Schengen Area
The residence card serves as evidence that the holder is lawfully resident in Greece as the family member of an EU citizen.
This can significantly facilitate travel and unlimited stay within the Schengen Area and is an important document to carry when travelling together with, or joining, the EU citizen spouse.
Family Stability
The residence card allows couples to establish their life together in Greece without the need for repeated short stays and provides a secure legal basis for long-term residence.
Permanent Residence After Five Years
After five years of continuous and lawful residence in Greece (as the law stands now):
- The non-EU spouse may apply for a longer Permanent Residence Card as a family member of an EU citizen.
The Permanent Residence Card is typically issued for ten years and provides enhanced security of residence.
Why This Route Is Attractive
Residence as the spouse of an EU citizen is one of the most favourable immigration routes available in Greece.
It offers:
- Legal residence in Greece.
- Access to employment and self-employment.
- Banking and tax registration facilities.
- Easier access to healthcare and public services.
- Freedom of movement benefits within the Schengen Area.
- A pathway to permanent residence for both spouses.
For many international families, it provides a straightforward and secure route to building a long-term life in Greece.
Dimitra Koutourousiou
Barrister at Court – Legal Consultant
Property, Immigration and Relocation Services in Greece
** please note that the Government may decide to change the above laws and rules according to what they see suitable