Residence Permit in Greece for Financially Independent Persons in 2026

A residence permit for financially independent persons in Greece allows eligible non-EU citizens with sufficient financial resources to live in the country without taking up employment or carrying out independent economic activities in Greece.

This residence permit may be suitable for retirees, individuals receiving income from overseas investments, owners of businesses abroad, and other applicants who can demonstrate sufficient legally acquired financial resources.

Unlike the Greece Golden Visa programme, this residence permit does not require a qualifying property investment.

Residence Permit for Financially Independent Persons: Requirements in 2026

This residence category is regulated by Greek Immigration Law 5038/2023, particularly Article 163, together with subsequent amendments and implementing regulations.

Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay in Greece without relying on employment or self-employment in the country.

The main requirements generally include:

• Sufficient legally acquired financial resources.
• Evidence of the source and availability of funds.
• A valid passport.
• An appropriate national entry visa (Type D), where required under the applicable procedure.
• Health insurance meeting Greek legal requirements.
• Compliance with the other applicable immigration conditions.

How Much Income Is Required in 2026?

The minimum amount of sufficient financial resources is €3,500 per month, equivalent to €42,000 per year for the principal applicant.

For accompanying family members, the amount increases by:

• 20% for a spouse.
• 15% for each child.

The following table illustrates the minimum financial requirements.

Applicants may demonstrate their financial resources through qualifying foreign pensions, income from overseas investments, bank statements, savings or other acceptable evidence of legally acquired funds.

The authorities assess the available resources and supporting documents according to the applicable rules.

Important: Simply holding €42,000 in a bank account does not automatically guarantee approval of a residence permit.

Can You Obtain This Residence Permit Without Buying Property?

Yes. Purchasing property is not a mandatory condition for obtaining a residence permit for financially independent persons in Greece.

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources and satisfy the relevant immigration requirements.

However, they should also make appropriate arrangements for accommodation in Greece.

Some applicants prefer to rent a property, while others choose to purchase a home or apartment for long-term residence.

Does This Residence Permit Allow You to Work in Greece?

No. This residence category does not authorise salaried employment or independent economic activity in Greece.

Applicants who intend to work or operate a business in Greece should consider another immigration category suited to their circumstances.

Can Family Members Apply?

Eligible family members may obtain residence permits under the relevant provisions, provided that the legal requirements are satisfied.

Applicants must demonstrate their family relationships and sufficient financial resources, including the applicable increases for accompanying family members.

The documentation and eligibility rules depend on the individual circumstances and current legislation.

How Long Is the Residence Permit Valid?

Under the applicable provisions for this category, the initial residence permit is generally issued for three years, with the possibility of renewal for an equivalent period.

Renewal is subject to continued compliance with the relevant legal requirements, including sufficient financial resources and appropriate health insurance.

Renewal is not automatic. A new application and the required supporting documents must be submitted in accordance with the applicable procedure.

How to Apply for a Residence Permit for Financially Independent Persons

The application process generally includes the following stages:

1. Checking eligibility for the financially independent persons residence category.
2. Preparing evidence of income, savings and other financial resources.
3. Applying for the appropriate Greek national visa (Type D) through the relevant consular authority.
4. Arranging accommodation and suitable health insurance in Greece.
5. Submitting the residence permit application through the competent immigration procedure.
6. Completing the required administrative formalities, including biometric enrolment where applicable.

The exact procedure may vary depending on the applicant’s nationality, immigration status and personal circumstances.

What Documents May Be Required?

Depending on the application, the documentation may include:

• A valid passport.
• The prescribed application form.
• Evidence of sufficient financial resources.
• Documentation confirming the lawful origin and availability of funds.
• Appropriate health insurance.
• Marriage and birth certificates when applying with eligible family members.
• Any additional documents required by the competent Greek authorities.

Foreign documents may require an apostille or other legalisation, together with an official translation.

Applicants should confirm the current documentation requirements before applying.

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Contact Dionisiou Real Estate to explore property opportunities in Halkidiki.

Other Residence Permit Options in Greece

If you are considering obtaining a residence permit through a qualifying property investment, you may also be interested in the Greece Golden Visa programme.

For a broader overview of immigration options, please visit our Residence Permit in Greece page.

For official immigration requirements and updates, consult the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum.

Important Legal Information

This article is intended for general information only and does not constitute legal, immigration or tax advice.

Residence permit requirements and administrative procedures may change. Applicants should verify the current rules with a qualified Greek immigration lawyer before preparing their application.

Last updated: October 2026.