Essential Documents for Moving to Greece
Relocating to Greece requires careful preparation of personal, professional, and legal documentation. As of 2025 and 2026, administrative procedures in Greece have become increasingly digital via the gov.gr portal, yet physical copies of original documents remain mandatory for many residency applications. Foreign nationals must ensure all documents issued outside of Greece are properly legalized and translated before arrival.
Identification and Civil Status
The foundation of any relocation file consists of identity documents. These are required for opening bank accounts, signing lease agreements, and applying for a residence permit (Adeia Diamonis).
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. It is recommended to have at least three blank pages.
- Birth Certificate: A certified copy is often required for family-based visas or when applying for a Greek Social Security Number (AMKA).
- Marriage or Divorce Certificates: Necessary for those moving with a spouse or applying for a family reunification visa.
- Passport-Sized Photos: While many offices now use digital capture, carrying four to six physical biometrical photos (3.5 x 4.5 cm) is standard practice for administrative files.
Visa and Residency Paperwork
The type of documentation required depends heavily on the individual's nationality (EU vs. non-EU) and the purpose of stay (work, study, or investment). For non-EU nationals, the National Visa (Type D) is the standard entry requirement before applying for a residence permit.
Proof of Financial Means
Greek authorities require evidence that the applicant can support themselves without becoming a burden on the national social assistance system. For Digital Nomad Visas or Golden Visas (2025/2026 updates), the following are typically required:
- Bank Statements: Usually the last 6 to 12 months of activity from a primary account.
- Proof of Income: Employment contracts or remote work agreements showing a minimum monthly income (e.g., approximately 3,500 EUR ($3,850 USD, Jan 2026) for Digital Nomads).
- Tax Returns: The previous year’s tax declaration from your country of origin.
Health and Insurance Records
Access to the Greek healthcare system or the issuance of a residence permit requires proof of health coverage. Non-EU citizens must typically provide:
- Private Health Insurance: A policy that covers inpatient and outpatient care, as well as medical evacuation, with a minimum coverage usually starting at 30,000 EUR ($33,000 USD, Jan 2026).
- S1 Form: For EU retirees, this document ensures the transfer of healthcare rights to the Greek system.
- Medical Certificate: In some visa categories, a certificate from a recognized medical professional stating the applicant does not suffer from contagious diseases is required.
Legalization and Translation Requirements
Documents issued by foreign authorities are not automatically recognized in Greece. They must undergo specific verification processes to be considered legally valid by the Ministry of Migration and Asylum or local Municipalities (Dimarchio).
The Apostille Stamp
If your home country is a member of the Hague Convention, your public documents must bear an Apostille stamp. This is obtained in the country where the document was issued. If your country is not a member, the document must be legalized by the Greek Consulate in that country.
Official Translations
All non-Greek documents must be translated into Greek. As of 2025, the Greek authorities primarily accept translations from:
- The Certified Translators registered with the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs (accessible via the Official Translation Service portal).
- Lawyers who are members of a Greek Bar Association and certified to translate specific languages.
Costs for translation vary by complexity and length, typically ranging from 20 EUR ($22 USD, Jan 2026) to 50 EUR ($55 USD, Jan 2026) per page.
Educational and Professional Credentials
If moving for employment or further study, you must bring:
- Diplomas and Degrees: Original copies with Apostille.
- Transcripts: Detailed records of courses taken.
- Professional Licenses: Required for regulated professions (medical, legal, engineering). Recognition is handled by DOATAP for academic degrees.
