How can I stay in Greece longer than 90 days?
Staying in Greece for more than 90 days as a non-EU citizen typically requires obtaining a long-term visa or residence permit. Here are a few options you could consider:
- Long-Stay Visa: Apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) from the Greek consulate or embassy in your home country before traveling to Greece. This visa allows you to stay in Greece for an extended period, often exceeding 90 days. However, the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for this visa can vary based on factors such as employment, study, family reunification, or retirement.
- Student Visa: If you plan to study in Greece, you can apply for a student visa. This allows you to stay in Greece for the duration of your studies. You will need to provide proof of enrollment in a recognized educational institution and meet other specific requirements.
- Work Visa: If you have a job offer from a Greek employer, you might be eligible for a work visa. The employer often needs to sponsor your application, and you’ll need to meet certain qualifications and documentation requirements.
- Family Reunification: If you have immediate family members who are EU citizens living in Greece, you might be able to apply for a residence permit based on family reunification.
- Retirement Visa: If you are retired and can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support yourself without needing to work in Greece, you might qualify for a retirement visa. This typically requires proof of stable income and health insurance coverage.
- Investor Visa: Some countries offer investor visas to individuals who invest a certain amount of money in the country. Greece has a Golden Visa program that allows investors and their families to obtain residence permits by investing in real estate.
- Volunteer or Researcher Visa: If you plan to engage in volunteer work or research activities, you might be able to apply for a specialized visa that aligns with your purpose of stay.
Keep in mind that the specific requirements, application process, and documentation can vary widely depending on the type of visa or residence permit you’re applying for. It’s advisable to consult the official website of the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country to get accurate and up-to-date information about the visa options available to you and the necessary application procedures.
Additionally, immigration laws and regulations can change, so it’s recommended to seek advice from official sources or legal experts to ensure you have the most current and accurate information before making any decisions.
Q2: What are the options for staying longer in Greece?
A2: You can consider options like obtaining a long-stay visa, student visa, work visa, family reunification permit, retirement visa, investor visa, or specialized visas for volunteers or researchers.
Q3: How can I apply for a long-stay visa?
A3: You'll need to apply for a Type D long-stay visa from the Greek consulate or embassy in your home country. The specific requirements depend on the purpose of your stay.
Q4: What’s the Golden Visa program in Greece?
A4: The Golden Visa program allows investors and their families to obtain residence permits by investing in Greek real estate. It's a way to stay in Greece by making a substantial investment.
Q5: Can I stay for study purposes?
A5: Yes, you can apply for a student visa if you plan to study in Greece. Make sure to provide proof of enrollment and meet other requirements.
Q6: What about working in Greece?
A6: If you have a job offer from a Greek employer, you might be eligible for a work visa. The employer usually sponsors your application.
Q7: Are there options for retirees?
A7: Yes, you can apply for a retirement visa if you have sufficient financial means to support yourself without working in Greece.
Q8: What’s the process for family reunification?
A8: If you have immediate family members who are EU citizens living in Greece, you might qualify for a residence permit based on family reunification.
Q9: Can I volunteer or do research in Greece?
A9: Specialized visas might be available for volunteers or researchers. Check with the authorities to understand the requirements.
Q10: Where can I find official information and advice?
A10: For accurate and up-to-date information, consult the official website of the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country.