Moving to Greece in 2025

Step by step guide on migrating and relocating to Greece in 2025?

Use our Guide to find all the moving information you may need if you are thinking of moving or working in Greece.

People relocate and move to Greece for many reasons, such as for employment opportunities, for cultural experiences, for historical attractions, for a better quality of life, for retirement and for business opportunities. Employment opportunities: Greece has become increasingly popular with job seekers over recent years and has a strong, vibrant and growing economy. The country offers a wide range of employment opportunities across various sectors, including hospitality, finance, engineering, and IT. The cost of living in Greece is still relatively low compared to other parts of Europe, so wages are often good. Cultural experiences: Greek culture is vibrant, rich and diverse. With its mix of ancient and modern, Greece offers something for everyone. Whether it’s the stunning scenery and scenery of the mainland or a cosmopolitan lifestyle on one of the many islands, it’s easy to find something to do in Greece that appeals to a variety of preferences. Historical attractions: Greece is placed perfectly to benefit from its incredible heritage, with an abundance of ancient sites, historical landmarks, and archaeological wonders. Popular sites and landmarks like the Parthenon and the Acropolis draw millions of visitors every year, ensuring that history and culture remain at the core of its identity. Better quality of life: Greece is well placed to offer a better quality of life than many other European countries due to its favorable climate and low cost of living. It’s also easy to find affordable housing in a wide range of locations, making it an attractive permanent home or holiday destination. Retirement: Greece is a popular destination for retirees, as it offers a relatively warm climate and low cost of living. Healthcare costs are also typically lower compared to other European countries, making it ideal for people wanting to retire abroad and enjoy a good quality of life. Business opportunities: There are a variety of business opportunities available in Greece, including investment in real estate, tourism and hospitality, infrastructure, and technology. Greece offers a favorable business environment, with the country receiving EU funding and other benefits, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and investors.

Cost of Moving to Greece

1.Cost of living: The cost of living in Greece is relatively low compared to other parts of Europe. Basic necessities such as groceries, utility bills and transportation tend to be quite reasonable. However, the prices of real estate, particularly in the larger cities, can be quite high. 2.Furniture and Housing: When moving to Greece, you will need to take furniture, appliances, and other items with you. The cost of purchasing furniture and appliances will vary depending on the quality and size of the items. The cost of finding housing when you arrive in Greece can include down payments, application fees, and utility deposits. 3.Visa and Immigration: If you are not an EU citizen, you will need to obtain a visa before traveling to Greece. Depending on where you are from, the cost and processing time of obtaining a short-term visa may vary. 4.Flight: The cost of flights to Greece will depend on the time of year and the airport of departure. 5.Banking: Opening a bank account in Greece can involve fees and requires proof of identification. 6.Transportation: There are several public transportation options in Greece, including buses, metro, and taxis. The cost of these options will depend on the length and destination of your travel. 7.Health Care: Health care in Greece is provided by a national health care system and is free if you are an EU citizen. Non-EU citizens will need to purchase a health insurance policy. 8.Language Classes: Learning the Greek language is necessary for many everyday activities. Language classes cost an average of €15-30 per lesson.

Best Jobs in Greece

One of the most popular jobs for migrants moving to Greece is working in the hospitality industry. This involves positions such as restaurant and hotel work, including waiters and front desk staff, as well as hospitality managers. This industry is a great choice for migrants because the pay is typically above average, and the hours are generally flexible. The average salary for a restaurant waiter in Greece is around €1,000 per month, while front desk staff can earn up to €1,500 per month. Hotel managers typically earn between €2,000 and €4,000 per month. Another popular job for migrants moving to Greece is working in the tourism industry. This can include positions such as tour guides, tour operators, and customer service roles. These jobs offer more creativity and flexibility compared to working in the hospitality industry. The salary of a tour guide in Greece typically starts at around €1,000 per month and can reach up to €2,500. Tour operators typically earn between €2,500 and €5,000 per month, while customer service roles have an average salary of €1,500 per month. Finally, migrants moving to Greece may also seek employment in the construction industry. Positions such as builders, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters are in great demand in Greece, due to the major construction projects taking place throughout the country. The average salary for builders in Greece is €1,500 per month, while electricians, plumbers, and carpenters typically earn between €1,500 and €2,500 per month.

Weather in Greece

Greece has a Mediterranean climate with mild and relatively wet winters as well as hot and dry summers. The weather in Greece is largely determined by its geographical location along the south-eastern corner of Europe. This coastal location creates an influence from nearby seas and the Mediterranean making Greek weather mild and seasonally wetter. The country has four distinct seasons with spring being the driest and the summer months being the hottest. Winters are mild along the coastlines with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C in the coastal islands and southern part of the mainland. During the summer months temperatures can reach as high as 33°C and are generally warm throughout May. Rainfall occurs mostly during the winter months with an average of at least one day of rain during the month of December. snowfall during the winter months can sometimes occur but only at very high elevations and in specific areas. Spring starts around mid March with temperatures reaching 23°C during the daytime and 11°C during the nights. Rainfall is still possible during this season but is usually not as frequent as during the winter months. Summer begins in June and brings with it the warmest and driest weather. With average temperatures reaching 28°C during the day, summers can get hot and humid in some parts of the country. Autumn, which typically starts in mid September and lasts until mid-November, is characterised by mild temperatures, clear skies and occasional rainfalls. Overall, the climate, weather and seasons in Greece provide tourists with a pleasant all-year-round experience.

Tax & Welfare System in Greece

The tax system in Greece is rather complex and the range of taxes imposed on individuals and businesses is quite varied. The main taxes include income tax, corporate tax, value added tax (VAT), capital gains tax, withholding tax, property tax, and inheritance tax. The Greek income tax system operates on a "progressive" basis, meaning that the tax rates increase with income levels, meaning higher income earners are subject to higher rates of tax. This is quite a common taxation system in most industrialized countries. The income tax rate then ranges from 10% to 45%. Corporate taxes are a flat rate of 29%, and apply to the profits of companies and organizations operating in Greece. Value Added Tax (VAT) is the main indirect tax in Greece, applying to goods and services at a rate of 24%; however, there are reduced rates applicable to certain products as well. Capital gains tax is imposed on individuals, companies and organizations in Greece, where capital gains are taxed as normal income at the applicable tax rate, which can range from 10%-45%. Withholding tax is applied to payments from Greece to other countries, and to payments from non-Greek residents, such as dividends and other income from foreign investments. The rate of withholding tax is usually 10%, but can vary depending on the different kinds of payment. Property tax applies to the ownership of land and buildings in Greece. The rates vary according to the size and type of property owned, ranging from 0.1% to 15%. Inheritance tax applies to inheritances of more than 250,000 euros, and has a maximum rate of 45%. The Greek social welfare system consists of a variety of government payments and services, the most important of which are social security benefits, health insurance, and unemployment benefits. Social security benefits are available to individuals and families provided they meet certain requirements regarding their economic situation. These benefits generally consist of cash payments, and can take the form of old age pensions, disability benefits, and maternity benefits. Health insurance is provided to citizens of Greece by the National Health System (ESY). This system contributes to the costs of health care and covers expenses such as doctors’ visits, hospitalization, and prescription drugs. Unemployment benefits are collected by people who are currently unemployed and unable to find work. These benefits are designed to help citizens who are out of work to get back on their feet financially. The amount of these benefits is determined by a variety of factors, including the recipient’s income and general economic situation. The Greek social welfare system also provides other services, such as housing aid, child benefits, and assistance to the disabled.

Holidays in Greece

In Greece, the following holidays are designated as national holidays: New Years Day (January 1st): Celebrates the beginning of the year and is a public holiday. Epiphany (January 6th): Celebrates the visit of the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus and is a public holiday. Clean Monday (March 1st): Celebrates the 40 days of Lent and is a public holiday. Greek Independence Day (March 25th): Celebrates the start of the struggle for Greek independence from the Ottoman Empire and is a public holiday. Labor Day (May 1st): Celebrates the labor movement and is a public holiday. Assumption of the Virgin Mary (August 15th): Celebrates the ascension of the Virgin Mary into Heaven and is a public holiday. Ochi Day (October 28th): A national holiday celebrating the rejection of the Italian ultimatum of October 28th, 1940, leading to Greeces entry into World War II. Christmas Day (December 25th): Celebrates the birth of Jesus and is a public holiday. Boxing Day (December 26th): Celebrates the following day after Christmas and is a public holiday.

Where to Live in Greece

The most densely populated areas of Greece are Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras and Larissa. Athens is the capital and largest city in Greece with a population of over 3 million people. It is also the largest economy in Greece and the hub for many international and local businesses. Thessaloniki is also an important city and the second-largest in Greece with a population of nearly 1 million people. It is home to many universities, businesses, and a thriving port. Patras is a port city in the Peloponnese with a population of nearly 250,000 people. It has many industries including shipbuilding, paper and textile production, and chemical production. Larissa is the fourth-largest city in Greece with a population of over 150,000 people. It is a major agricultural center and also has many universities and other industries. The majority of jobs in Greece can be found in the countrys urbanized areas, which includes Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, and Larissa. In these cities, one can find employment in many industries such as banking, finance, tourism, and technology. Additionally, the agricultural and health industries are also strong in these areas. Athens is the major urban center for the country and many international companies have a presence there, providing plenty of job opportunities. Furthermore, Thessaloniki and Patras are often center-points for transport, shipping, and tourism operations. Finally, the educational centers in Larissa add to the citys job market and attract new professionals.

Sports & Recreation in Greece

Greece is home to a variety of popular sports and recreational activities. Recreational activities in Greece are especially popular during the long summer season; many activities take advantage of the country’s Mediterranean climate and lush landscapes. Water sports are some of the most popular activities in Greece. Swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and sailing are popular activities that many locals and visitors enjoy throughout the Mediterranean country. Greece is a haven for outdoor adventurers. Popular outdoor activities in Greece include mountain biking, snowboarding, rock climbing, paragliding, and kayaking. Greece is also home to some interesting outdoor pursuits such as rafting, tubing, and trekking. The country’s dramatic mountains, rugged coastlines, and lush forests are ideal for these kinds of activities. Yoga retreats and wellness retreats are also popular activities in Greece. Along with the enjoyable physical activities, these retreats offer opportunities to appreciate the beauty of the Greek countryside and bask in its rich cultural history. There are also plenty of organized sports for tourists and locals to participate in. Football, basketball, and volleyball are some of the most popular team sports in Greece. Other popular sports in the country include track and field, rugby, and handball. Greece also offers a variety of cultural activities and experiences, including traditional music and dance, pottery, cooking classes, and cultural excursions. These activities offer a unique way to explore the vibrant culture of Greece and get to know its people and traditions.

Cost of Living & Housing in Greece

The cost of living and housing in Greece varies significantly across the country. In general, costs tend to be higher in major cities such as Athens, while further away from the city, they may be much lower. Living costs in Greece can be quite low in some areas. For example, basic groceries such as fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, eggs, and dairy products tend to be affordable, especially if you buy in bulk or buy locally grown produce. Fuel prices are also relatively low compared to other European countries. Housing in Greece is also very affordable. Rental prices are usually quite low in rural areas compared to bigger cities. Buying property can also be relatively cheap, especially if you look for smaller properties or apartments in rural areas. Overall, the cost of living in Greece is manageable for most people, with the potential of significant savings for retirees and others looking for a low-cost lifestyle.

Best International Removals Companies to/from Greece

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Immigration Advice and Visa InformationGreek

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Study and Higher Education in Greece

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