FIP Visa Greece

The Financially Independent Persons Visa for Greece presents an excellent opportunity for non-EU citizens who have the financial resources to support their living expenses. This program grants a 3-year residence permit in Greece, with no requirements for language proficiency, education, or work experience. After three years, applicants may apply for an extension of their residence.

This visa is especially well-suited for retirees and individuals seeking an affordable, peaceful lifestyle amidst the stunning landscapes of Greece.

Let’s explore the conditions and steps required to obtain the Financially Independent Persons Visa for Greece. Stay with us for more details.

To receive professional immigration consultation, please fill out the form below:

What is Greece’s Financially Independent Persons Visa?

The Greece Financially Independent Persons Visa, also known as the Financially Independent Residency Visa, is designed for non-EU citizens who have the financial means to support themselves in Greece. This visa allows applicants to reside in Greece without the need for language proficiency, educational qualifications, or work experience. It is ideal for retirees and those seeking an affordable, peaceful life in Greece’s beautiful natural surroundings.

Introduced in 2013, the program offers a 3-year residence permit, which is extendable. After this period, applicants can apply for permanent residency, and ultimately, citizenship after 7 years of residence.

Conditions for Obtaining the Greece Financially Independent Persons Visa

General Conditions:

• Financial Self-Sufficiency: You must demonstrate that you can financially support yourself and your family without working in Greece. This can be done through bank statements, pension funds, or income from investments.
• Proof of Residence: You need to show evidence of your accommodation in Greece (e.g., rental agreements or property ownership).
• Health Insurance: You must have valid health insurance for the duration of your stay in Greece.
• No Employment: This visa does not allow employment in Greece, and your residency will depend on your continued financial independence.

Required Financial Resources

To qualify for the Financially Independent Persons Visa, you must have a minimum monthly income of €3,500. For each family member:

• €700 for a spouse (20% of the primary amount)
• €525 for each child under 18 (15% of the primary amount)

This income must be stable for at least a year, totaling approximately €48,000 annually. You will need to prove the financial means through:

• Bank statements confirming the required income.
• Pension or employment documents showing the monthly income.
• Proof of savings via a 3-month bank statement.

Required Documents for the Greece Financially Independent Visa

• Criminal record certificate for you and your family members.
• Original birth certificates for you and your family.
• Six passport-sized photos for the applicant and family members.
• Employment certificate for the head of the family.
• Proof of financial means to sustain living in Greece.
• Valid passport with at least two and a half years of validity for all family members.
• Travel insurance covering 90 days.
• €80 visa application fee.
• Proof of residence in Greece (rental agreements or property ownership documents).

Note: Official documents from your home country must be officially translated into Dutch, English, French, or German.

How to Apply for the Greece Financially Independent Visa

1. Prepare Your Documents: Gather all the necessary documents as outlined above.
2. Submit Your Application: Visit the Greek embassy or consulate in your country of residence to submit the application for the Financially Independent Persons Visa. You may be asked to attend an interview to verify your financial status.
3. Receive a One-Year Visa: If your application is approved, you will receive a Type D visa, which is a one-year entry visa to Greece.
4. Register Your Residence: After arriving in Greece, register your residence with the immigration office to receive a two-year residence card. This card is renewable as long as you continue to meet the visa’s requirements.

How Long Does it Take to Get the Greece Financially Independent Visa?

The processing time for the Greece Financially Independent Visa generally takes between 2 to 4 months, depending on the completeness of your documents and the embassy’s administrative processing. From visa issuance to receiving your residence card, the entire process may take 6 to 8 months.

Advantages of the Greece Financially Independent Visa

• No language certificate required; however, being proficient in English or Greek is beneficial.
• Access to Greece’s high quality of life: Known as one of the happiest countries in the world with excellent healthcare, infrastructure, and low corruption rates.
• Family inclusion: Your spouse and children under 18 can also apply for residency.
• Work and Education for Family: Your spouse can work, and your children can attend school for free until high school.
• Schengen Area Access: Travel freely within all Schengen countries with one visa.
• Low Tax Rates: Greece offers a competitive tax system for businesses (20%), one of the lowest in developed countries.
• Healthcare and Social Insurance: Access to free healthcare and social insurance in Greece.

Can I Extend My Greece Financially Independent Residence Permit?

Yes, you can extend your residence permit after 3 years by proving your continued financial independence and having lived in Greece for at least 183 days in the previous three years. After 5 years of living in Greece, you can apply for permanent residency. After 7 years, you may be eligible to apply for Greek citizenship.

Conclusion

The Financially Independent Persons Visa for Greece is an excellent option for retirees or anyone with sufficient financial resources who seeks to enjoy a high quality of life in one of Europe’s most beautiful and welcoming countries. By meeting the financial requirements and following the necessary procedures, you and your family can establish long-term residence in Greece and potentially even pursue citizenship in the future.