Moving to Greece: Costs, Benefits, and What You Need to Know Before Immigrating

Are you thinking about moving to Greece? This Mediterranean paradise is known for its stunning islands, rich history, and sunny climate. But before you pack your bags, you’ll want to know about costs, salaries, and benefits. Here’s everything you need to know to make your dream a reality.

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Why Move to Greece?

Greece has a lot to offer immigrants. From a laid-back lifestyle to its excellent Mediterranean diet, it’s no surprise why people are drawn here. Greece is part of the European Union (EU), so EU citizens enjoy free movement. Non-EU citizens may need a visa.

Tourism and real estate have been booming in Greece. If you’re an entrepreneur or looking for work in hospitality, tech, or teaching, there are opportunities waiting for you.

Salaries in Greece

Salaries in Greece vary widely depending on the industry. On average, the monthly net salary is about €850–€1,200. However, skilled professionals in fields like IT or finance can earn much more, sometimes €2,000–€3,500 per month.

Here’s a breakdown of average salaries for key jobs:

Software Developer: €1,800–€2,500 per month
English Teacher: €900–€1,500 per month
Hotel or Restaurant Staff: €800–€1,200 per month

The minimum wage in Greece is €780 per month (as of 2024).

Cost of Living

While salaries might seem low, the cost of living in Greece is affordable compared to other EU countries. However, this largely depends on where you live.

Housing Costs

Rent in Greece is affordable outside of tourist hotspots. Here’s what you can expect:

One-bedroom apartment in Athens: €400–€600 per month
One-bedroom apartment in Thessaloniki: €300–€500 per month
Coastal areas or islands (e.g., Santorini): €600–€1,200 per month

Sharing an apartment can lower your rent costs. Utilities (electricity, water, internet) typically add another €100–€150 per month.

Food and Groceries

Greece is famous for its fresh produce. A budget of €200–€300 per month will cover groceries for most people. Dining out is also affordable:

Gyros: €3–€4
Mid-range restaurant meal: €10–€15 per person

Transportation

Public transport is cheap and efficient. In Athens, a monthly public transport pass costs around €30. If you own a car, fuel costs about €2 per liter.

Healthcare in Greece

Greece offers a public healthcare system (ESY) and private options. Public healthcare is free or low-cost for residents, but wait times can be long. Private healthcare offers faster service, with insurance premiums starting at around €50 per month.

EU citizens can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for basic medical care. Non-EU citizens need to have health insurance, often as part of their visa application.

Work Visas and Residency

If you’re from the EU, moving to Greece is simple—no visa required. Non-EU citizens need to navigate a more complex process. Here are some common visa types:

Work Visa: Requires a job offer from a Greek employer.
Golden Visa: Available to those who invest at least €250,000 in Greek real estate.
Digital Nomad Visa: Perfect for remote workers.

Residency permits must be renewed regularly. The requirements vary depending on your visa type.

Taxes in Greece

Taxes in Greece might be higher than expected. Residents pay progressive income tax, ranging from 9% to 44%. Social security contributions are also deducted from salaries, typically around 20% of gross income.

However, Greece offers tax incentives for newcomers, including a flat 7% income tax rate for retirees who relocate.

Benefits of Living in Greece

1. Quality of Life

Greece ranks high for its relaxed lifestyle. The weather is warm, and outdoor activities are endless.

2. Affordable Living

For many expats, the cost of living is a pleasant surprise. Rent, food, and transport are all relatively cheap.

3. Cultural Richness

From ancient ruins to vibrant festivals, Greece is a haven for history and art lovers.

4. Digital Nomad Visa

Greece is increasingly welcoming remote workers. The Digital Nomad Visa allows you to work remotely while enjoying Greece’s beautiful scenery.

Challenges to Consider

1. Bureaucracy

The paperwork for visas and residency can be overwhelming. Always start early and consult a lawyer if needed.

2. Language Barrier

While many Greeks speak English, learning basic Greek will make daily life easier.

3. High Taxes

Be prepared for relatively high income tax rates. Make sure to account for this in your budgeting.

Useful Links

To get started on your Greek adventure, here are two helpful resources:

Final Thoughts

Immigrating to Greece is an exciting opportunity. With its affordable lifestyle, beautiful surroundings, and growing economy, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to live abroad.

Make sure to plan ahead, research your visa options, and budget carefully. Whether you’re chasing a new career, a slower pace of life, or the sunshine, Greece might just be the perfect place for you.