Can I Retire in Greece After Brexit? What UK Citizens Need to Know

Since Brexit, many British citizens have found themselves wondering if their dream of retiring under the Mediterranean sun is still possible. The good news? Yes, you can retire in Greece after Brexit. But there are a few more steps involved than there used to be.

In this article, we’ll guide you through what’s changed post-Brexit, what’s still possible, and how to make your dream of retiring in Greece a reality.

🇬🇷 Why Greece is Still a Top Choice for UK Retirees?

Let’s start with the why, because it’s an easy one. Greece offers:

• 300+ days of sunshine a year

• A slower pace of life

• Stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages

• An affordable cost of living compared to the UK

• Access to quality private healthcare at reasonable prices

• A strong UK expats community, particularly in Crete, Rhodes, and Athens

If you're still deciding where to spend your golden years, you might find it helpful to explore how Greece became a top destination for retirees and why it continues to attract so many British expats.

🇬🇧 Post-Brexit Rules: What Changed for UK Citizens After Brexit?

Before Brexit, as EU citizens, Brits had the freedom to live and retire in Greece with minimal paperwork. That changed on January 1st, 2021, when the UK officially left the EU.

Now, UK citizens are considered “third-country nationals” under Greek immigration law — the same category as Americans, Canadians, and Australians. This means you’ll need a residence permit to stay long-term.

🛂 How Can A UK Resident Move to Greece to Retire?

There are several ways to secure residency in Greece as a retiree. Here are the most relevant options for UK nationals:

1. National Visa + Residence Permit for Financially Independent Persons (FIP)

If you don’t plan to work in Greece and can support yourself with pensions or other passive income, this is the most straightforward option.

Key requirements:

• Stable income of at least €3,500/month (more if you have a spouse or dependents)

• Proof of health insurance covering you in Greece

• Clear criminal record

• Evidence of accommodation in Greece

💡 This permit is renewable every three years and does not require investment or property purchase.

2. Golden Visa (Residency by Investment)

If you’re planning to buy property in Greece, the Golden Visa is an attractive option. It grants residency to anyone who invests €400,000+ in Greek real estate (or €250,000 in some selected cases).

Perks:

• No minimum stay requirements

• Includes residency for spouse, dependent children, and even ascendants

• Considered a permanent residence permit, and it is renewable automatically, every five years, to the extent that the investment is maintained

Important Update: Both of these immigration routes saw significant changes in 2024. Income thresholds have increased, eligibility criteria have become stricter, and new options have been introduced. It’s more important than ever to get up-to-date, accurate guidance.

If you’re considering the Golden Visa, be aware that it’s not a DIY-friendly process — working with a trusted professional is essential to avoid costly mistakes. 

👉 Curious to dive deeper? Read our full guide to visa options for retirees in Greece.

🧾 Retirement Taxes & Healthcare in Greece

🧮  Taxation

Greece has a non-dom tax regime offering significant tax breaks for retirees moving from abroad. Depending on your situation, you may be eligible to pay a flat 7% tax on your foreign pension income for up to 15 years. This must be applied for — it’s not automatic.

Potential tax savings are significant:

·        On a total annual income of £35,000, you could save around £2,000 per year.

·        At £60,000, savings could exceed £7,000, and above £70,000, you might save over £10,000 annually.

Want to know how the UK’s different pensions are treated in Greece and how taxation works for Brits who relocate? Read or full blog on retiring in Greece from the UK tax guide.

🏥 Healthcare

As a non-EU resident, you’ll need private health insurance to get your residence permit. The good news is that private healthcare in Greece is both high quality and affordable.

Keep in mind: Most residency routes come with age-related considerations or requirements — applying earlier can make the process smoother and expand your options.

✈️ Living Part-Time in Greece Without Residency

Yes — you can spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period in Greece (or anywhere in the Schengen zone) without a visa. This works well if you just want to escape the UK winter.

But if you’re planning to live in Greece full-time or for most of the year, you’ll need to apply for residency.

The same happens if you want to qualify for the UK’s special tax discounts for foreign retirees.

💬 Final Thoughts: Is Retiring in Greece Still Worth It?

While Brexit may have added a few more steps to the process, retiring in Greece as a UK citizen is absolutely still possible. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping ouzo by the sea, exploring historic villages, or enjoying a laid-back lifestyle with great weather, Greece welcomes retirees with open arms — if you’re prepared.

At Mitos Relocation, we help you navigate the entire process — from understanding which visa fits your situation best to settling in comfortably once you arrive. Our goal is simple: to turn your retirement dream into a confident, well-informed plan. To make your move smooth and stress-free, explore our relocation services for Greece — from visa support to local settling-in assistance, we’re here to help at every step.

🌿 Ready to explore what retiring in Greece could look like for you?

Learn more about our services and book a free discovery call. We can’t wait to help you turn your dream retirement in Greece into reality — let’s craft it together!

FAQs

1. Can UK citizens still retire in Greece after Brexit?
Yes, but you'll need to apply for a residence permit as a non-EU national. Options include the Financially Independent Person permit or a Golden Visa.

2. What income do I need to retire in Greece from the UK?
You’ll typically need at least €3,500 per month in passive income (more if you're bringing a spouse). This is to qualify for the Financially Independent Person permit.

3. Is healthcare in Greece good for British retirees?
Yes. Private healthcare is of high quality and affordable, but you must have insurance to meet visa requirements.

4. Can I live in Greece part-time without a visa?
Yes, UK citizens can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period in Greece without needing a visa.

5. Are UK pensions taxed in Greece?
If you apply for Greece’s non-dom tax regime, your foreign pension may be taxed at a flat rate of 7% for up to 15 years.