FAQ
Common questions.
How much income do I need for the Greece retirement visa?
At least EUR 3,500 a month, from a foreign pension, bank accounts or other money of your own. A spouse adds 20% and each child adds 15%. Money in the bank can count instead of a regular income. It is then checked over a whole year rather than month by month.
Is there an age limit for the Greece retirement visa?
The official pages set no age limit.
What do I need for the Greece retirement visa?
The official page asks for: proof of income or bank deposits, private health insurance and passport with a national (type D) visa.
Do I need health insurance?
Private health insurance is needed for the permit and for each renewal.
Can I work on the Greece retirement visa?
You and your family may not work or run any business in Greece on this permit.
How long do I need to spend in Greece?
The official pages do not state how long you must stay in Greece each year.
Does the Greece retirement visa lead to permanent residence?
After 5 years of legal, continuous residence you can apply for long-term resident status. You need income of at least the minimum wage, full health insurance, and Greek language and culture knowledge (or 12 years of legal residence).
How long does the Greece retirement visa last?
The permit lasts 3 years. Yes, for 3 years at a time.
How much does the Greece retirement visa cost?
EUR 180 for the national visa and EUR 1,000 for the residence permit. People who get a Greek state pension pay EUR 150 for the permit.
Who can apply for the Greece retirement visa?
Open to people from outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland. People from outside the EU with a steady income from abroad, such as a pension, who want to live in Greece without working.
Can I bring my family?
Family members can come with you and get their own permits, which end at the same time as yours. The income rule can be met by each member or by the family together.
How do I apply?
Get a national (type D) visa at a Greek consulate first. Then apply for the permit to the Decentralised Administration where you live.
Sources
- Greece: Residence permit for people with sufficient resources, financially independent persons (type I.8) (migration.gov.gr)
- Greece: how to apply (migration.gov.gr)
- Greece: Residence permit for people with sufficient resources, financially independent persons (type I.8) (migration.gov.gr)
- Greece: Ministry page for financially independent persons (migration.gov.gr)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.