Greece

Greece is one of the few European countries that combines a Mediterranean climate, a centuries-old cultural heritage, and relatively affordable living costs. The country is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, has a population of approximately 10.4 million, and its official language is Greek. The currency is the euro. Life in Greece attracts Ukrainian migrants thanks to its mild climate with over 300 sunny days a year, employment opportunities in the tourism and agricultural sectors, as well as simplified procedures for citizens seeking temporary protection.

Below, we discuss the specifics of the administrative structure and residence permits, the pros and cons for migrants, the actual cost of rent and groceries, the legalization process, and the most popular cities among Ukrainians.

Life in Greece: Structure and Residence Permits

Greece is a parliamentary republic. The head of state is the president, and the executive branch is led by the prime minister. The country is divided into 13 administrative regions (peripheries), each of which has its own local government. Legislative power belongs to the unicameral parliament—the Vouli—which consists of 300 members. The political system is stable, and EU membership determines the general direction of the country’s development, from economic policy to immigration legislation.

For a long-term stay in the country, non-EU foreigners need a residence permit. Ukrainian citizens with a biometric passport can enter Greece without a visa and stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For a longer stay—for the purpose of work, study, or family reunification—you must apply for a Type D national visa. The grounds for obtaining a Type D visa are varied: employment, study, family reunification, conducting business, or obtaining temporary protection for Ukrainians. Upon arrival, you must register with the local police department for foreign nationals and obtain a Greek tax identification number (AFM)—without it, you cannot open a bank account, rent housing, or work legally.

A temporary residence permit is issued depending on the reason and is typically valid for 1 to 3 years, with the right to renewal. After 5 years of continuous legal residence, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency in Greece and obtain a resident card—a document confirming the right to permanent residence. Legalizing your stay is a mandatory requirement for accessing the social security system, healthcare services, and the labor market.

Pros and Cons of Living in Greece

The standard of living in Greece lags behind that of Western European leaders, but it has its own distinct advantages. First and foremost is the climate: over 300 sunny days a year, mild winters, and long, warm seasons allow for an active lifestyle nearly year-round.

The cost of daily living here is noticeably lower than in France, Germany, or Scandinavia. Greek culture is built around family values, social ties, and mutual support—migrants note the warmth and hospitality of the local population. Its geographical location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa provides convenient access for travel. For entrepreneurs, the process of starting a business is fairly straightforward, especially for EU citizens. Greece is also attractive to Ukrainians because English is widely spoken in tourist regions and in professional settings.

Among the main drawbacks is a challenging labor market. Following a prolonged financial crisis, the economy is recovering, but competition for skilled positions remains high. The minimum wage is approximately €880 gross per month—a figure significantly lower than in Central and Western European countries. The tax system is progressive: rates range from 9% to 44% depending on income level. Public healthcare is accessible, but wait times for specialist appointments can stretch out over weeks or months. Many migrants opt for private insurance, which costs between 80 and 150 euros per month for a basic plan. Another feature is seasonality: the islands and resort regions are bustling in the summer, but from October through May, a significant portion of establishments close, and jobs in the service sector disappear until the next tourist season.

Cost of living in Greece: housing, groceries, and transportation

A single person can live comfortably in Greece on 1,100–2,200 euros per month, while a family of four needs 2,700–5,200 euros. The exact amount depends on the city, type of housing, and lifestyle. Rent remains the largest expense. A one-bedroom apartment in a popular area of Athens costs €450–800, while a three-bedroom apartment costs €800–1,700. Outside the capital, prices are significantly lower: in Crete, particularly in Chania or Rethymno, rent can be 30–40% cheaper. Lease agreements are typically signed for 3 years with the right to terminate after one year, and the security deposit is 1–2 months’ rent.

Groceries for one person cost 200–400 euros per month, and for a family of four, 500–750 euros. Utilities (water, electricity, internet, phone) amount to 150–250 euros for one person and 200–350 euros for a family. Mobile service with good 4G/5G coverage in major cities costs 20–30 EUR, and home internet costs 25–35 EUR. Public transportation is accessible and efficient, and monthly transportation costs range from 30–100 EUR depending on the city.

Traveling to Greece by car requires factoring in the cost of gasoline and insurance, but owning a car here is relatively affordable compared to Western Europe.

Foreigners can purchase real estate without restrictions. Additional costs associated with a purchase include:

• legal fees — approximately 1.5%;
• notary fees — about 1.5%;
• registration fees — approximately 0.5%;
• property transfer tax — usually 3.09%.

Work and Study in Greece for Ukrainians

The Greek labor market is gradually recovering after the crisis years. The greatest demand for labor is in tourism, the hotel industry, agriculture, construction, and the service sector. Jobs in these sectors are often seasonal, especially on the islands and in resort areas. English will help you find work in tourist areas, but knowing Greek significantly expands your opportunities. The minimum wage is €880 gross, and highly qualified professionals in IT, medicine, and engineering can expect significantly higher incomes.

For freelancers and remote workers, Greece offers a special digital nomad visa that allows you to legally work for a foreign employer while residing in the country. Starting your own business is a straightforward process for EU citizens, and the government is implementing measures to simplify administrative procedures for entrepreneurs.

Studying in Greece is also a compelling reason to relocate. There are 24 public universities in the country. Among the most famous are the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (founded in 1837), Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (over 45,000 students), and the National Technical University of Athens. Public higher education is free for EU citizens at the bachelor’s level; master’s programs require tuition. Many programs are taught in English, making education accessible to foreigners without knowledge of Greek. The cost of student life here is lower than in most Western European countries, and a university degree is recognized throughout the EU.

How to Move to Greece: Entry Procedures and Legalization

Emigrating to Greece begins with choosing a basis for residence. Ukrainians planning to move to Greece for an extended period need a Type D national visa—applications are submitted at the Greek consulate in their place of residence. The basis may be employment, study, starting a business, family reunification, or obtaining temporary protection. The required documents depend on the purpose of the trip and usually include a passport, proof of financial means, health insurance, and documents substantiating the basis (employment contract, letter from an educational institution, etc.). It is advisable to submit the application several months before the planned departure.

Upon arrival, you must register with the relevant authority (the police department for foreign nationals) and obtain a Greek tax identification number (AFM). This 9-digit number is required for most administrative procedures—from opening a bank account to signing a lease agreement.

A temporary residence permit is issued depending on the grounds for residency, and after 5 years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for permanent residency in Greece and obtain a resident card. Moving to Greece on a permanent basis is feasible provided you have a stable income, secure housing, and comply with immigration laws.

Life in Greece for Ukrainians with temporary protection has its own peculiarities. This status grants a residence permit and the right to work, but currently does not qualify for a permanent residence permit or citizenship. Therefore, migrants planning to stay long-term try to switch to a different basis—through an employment contract, education, or business.

The Most Popular Cities to Live in Greece

The choice of city determines both daily expenses and employment opportunities. Below is an overview of the cities most frequently chosen by migrants, particularly Ukrainians.

Athens

The capital, with a population of about 4 million, is the country’s main economic hub. Most job openings in the service, tourism, and technology sectors are concentrated here. Popular neighborhoods for migrants include Kolonaki, Kifissia, and Glyfada. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas ranges from 450 to 800 euros, and for a three-bedroom apartment from 800 to 1,700 euros. The city has a well-developed public transportation system (metro, buses, trams) and is close to the Port of Piraeus, from which ferries depart for the islands.

Thessaloniki

Greece’s second-largest city attracts people with its more affordable cost of living, lively student atmosphere, and rich cultural scene. Aristotle University, the largest in the country, is located here. Thessaloniki is suitable for families and young professionals seeking a balance between career opportunities and quality of daily life. Rent here is 20–30% lower than in Athens.

Patras

Greece’s third-largest city, located in the Peloponnese. Patras is an important port and commercial hub with affordable housing and food prices. The city is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life while still enjoying urban amenities. It is also home to a university, offering educational opportunities.

Heraklion

The largest city on the island of Crete. Heraklion attracts people with lower rent costs compared to Athens, its proximity to the sea and mountains, as well as a developed tourism sector that provides seasonal employment. The international airport makes traveling to and from Greece convenient, even from the island.

Tips for Ukrainian migrants moving to Greece

Adapting to life in Greece is easier for those willing to learn the language and respect local customs. Greek is not an easy language, but even a basic level significantly facilitates everyday communication and finding work outside tourist areas. It’s also worth getting used to the local rhythm—lunch is served here between 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM, dinner after 9:00 PM, and the siesta is still observed in many regions during the summer: stores close from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Before leaving, it’s helpful to gather and, if necessary, translate into Greek or English your key documents: diplomas, birth certificates, and marriage certificates. It is best to obtain your AFM as soon as possible after arrival—without it, it is practically impossible to resolve any administrative issues. You should open a bank account at one of the major Greek banks (Piraeus Bank, Alpha Bank, Eurobank, or the National Bank of Greece), bringing your passport, proof of address, and AFM number.

It is also important to remember about health insurance. To access public healthcare, you need an AMKA social security number. A visit to a general practitioner at a public clinic costs 0–5 euros, and to a specialist—10–30 euros, but wait times can be long. A private consultation with a general practitioner costs 40–80 euros, and with a specialist—60–120 euros. Many migrants purchase additional private insurance (€80–150 for a basic package or €200–350 for comprehensive international coverage). In case of an emergency, dial 166 (Greek ambulance service) or 112 (European emergency number with English-speaking operators).