What Visa Do You Need to Move to Greece After Retirement?

Greece has quietly climbed the ranks as one of Europe's best places to retire. With its warm weather, affordable living, welcoming locals, and postcard-worthy views, it's easy to see why many people want to move to Greece after retirement. But when it comes to paperwork and requirements, what exactly do you need to move to Greece for retirement?

If you’re a non-EU citizen hoping to enjoy a laid-back life in the Mediterranean haven, you’ll most likely need a Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa. No official retirement visa exists, but the FIP visa acts like one. Let’s look at what this visa involves, who qualifies, and how it compares with other options like the Golden Visa.

Types Of Visas You Need To Move To Greece After Retirement

If you plan to retire in Greece as a non-EU citizen, the two primary pathways for retirees are: 

• Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa and

• Golden Visa

While Greece doesn’t have a specific "retirement visa," the FIP Visa and the Golden Visa offer practical pathways for retirees to enjoy long-term stays. Whether through financial independence or real estate investment, both options make retiring in Greece a realistic and appealing option. To understand how these visas support long-term living, visit our Step by Step Guide to Retiring in Greece – Updated 2025.

What Is the Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa?

If you plan to relocate to Greece after retirement, the FIP visa is your main option. This visa is designed for non-EU citizens (including those from the US, Canada, or the UK) who want to live in Greece without working there. If you can financially support yourself through pensions, investments, or savings, you're eligible to apply.

While we speak about a visa, there are, in reality, two different papers.  The FIP visa is a long-stay type D visa for expats, which enables you to stay in Greece for more than 90 days and up to 1 year. You need to apply in your country of residence. If you plan to stay more than 1 year, you will need to apply for a FIP residence permit once you arrive in Greece. This will be valid for 3 years and can be renewed to support long-term residence. For a broader look at why Greece is such an appealing destination, see Top 5 Reasons Retirees Are Moving to Greece.

Retirement Visa Greece Requirements

You must meet certain financial and legal requirements to qualify for the FIP visa. Here's what you’ll be expected to show:

• Stable Monthly Income 

You must prove a consistent income of at least €3,500 per month. If you bring a spouse or dependent children, the required amount increases by 20% more for a spouse and 15% per child.

• Proof of Funds

If you do not meet the monthly income requirement, in most cases, authorities accept evidence of sufficient savings. It is important to note that this alternative path is not part of the Law, and the minimum thresholds you can be asked for can vary depending on where you apply. To play it safe, you should be able to show a lump sum deposit of €126,000, which is equivalent to the income required for the 3-year duration of the permit (€3,500 * 12 months * 3 years). Bank statements, investment reports, or proof of pension will be needed.

• Valid Health Insurance 

You must have private health coverage, which is accepted in Greece. For the visa, this is an international travel insurance; for the residence permit, a local health insurance. You must confirm that you have at least €30,000 of medical coverage and that your policy includes medical repatriation if necessary. 

• Clean Criminal Record 

You’ll need a police clearance certificate from your current country of residence when applying for a visa. 

• Proof of Accommodation 

You will need proof of accommodation for 3 months to apply for the visa, and evidence of living in Greece (like a utility bill) for the residence permit.  

This list is not exhaustive - other requirements include medical certificates and certificates of marriage and birth if you are applying with your spouse or children. 

Step-by-Step Process to Apply

The FIP visa involves several steps:

1. Collect Documents, including your passport, proof of income or savings, health insurance, and criminal record certificate.

2. Submit your documents and complete the visa application process from your country of residence - typically at your local consulate or an appointed visa office.

3. Once you receive your visa approval, you can travel to Greece.

4. After arrival, apply for a long-term Residence Permit. This gives you the legal right to stay in Greece beyond the duration of the initial visa.

For a year-long planning checklist, we recommend reviewing our 10 Steps to Plan and Achieve Your Dream Retirement Abroad in Just One Year.

Legal Support for the FIP Visa & Residence Permit

While some steps in the process may seem daunting, many are actually straightforward, especially in a country like Greece, where digital systems are increasingly user-friendly. Still, there are several areas where you may need some guidance, such as finding the right appointment at the Consulate and translating documents.

With the help of a relocation planner, you can approach things with clarity and avoid common (and costly) mistakes. 

For example, a good planner can guide you through the process if you decide to apply by yourself; recommend trustworthy local professionals—such as lawyers with transparent and honest fees— if you prefer getting some help; and make sure you avoid inflated costs charged by larger agencies, which can sometimes ask over €3,000 for something relatively simple. 

Greece is already a Top Destination for Retirees because of its comfort and peace of mind. So, if you’re serious about retiring in Greece without unnecessary stress, hiring a team experienced in relocation for retirees can be smart. You’re not outsourcing everything, but coordinating smartly—saving time, money, and stress.

The Golden Visa: A Secondary Choice 

If you are looking to invest in property or have plans to relocate, the Golden Visa is another good option for relocating to Greece for retirement. 

Large changes were implemented in the Golden Visa in 2024. Nowadays, the typical minimum investment threshold is €400,000, whereas for Attica (including Athens), Thessaloniki, and the most famous islands, the threshold is €800,000. There are some exemptions that still allow you to access real estate at €250,000, although it’s harder to find such opportunities. Another important change was that new Golden Visa properties can no longer be rented out short-term.  

This visa grants you and your immediate family residency rights in Greece. It doesn’t require proof of income, but you must maintain the investment to renew after 5 years.

This is a more suitable route for those who want to retire in Greece while investing in a second home or long-term rental property. Moreover, one of the big benefits of the Golden Visa is that it does not require ongoing residency of at least 6 months a year, for those retirees who want more flexibility and the opportunity to travel without limits.

Contrary to the FIP approach, it is highly recommended to involve an expert lawyer for the Golden Visa, both for the house purchase transaction and for the application to the immigration authorities.

Finally, if you are interested in the Golden Visa but not ready to purchase real estate, there are other investment routes you can consider - for example, in local bonds or equities. 

What are the Benefits of a FIP Residence Permit or Golden Visa?

Once you receive the FIP Permit or Golden Visa, you will gain the right to live in Greece for a long time. With it, you’ll be able to enjoy:

• Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area

• The ability to bring your spouse and dependent children (plus your ancestors in the case of the Golden Visa)

• A clear path to apply for permanent residency or even citizenship after several years of living in Greece

Final Thoughts

Both the Financially Independent Person Visa and the Golden Visa offer an affordable and reliable option for those looking to move to Greece after retirement. They are the most popular route for US or UK citizens who want to enjoy Greek life without working. Whether you prefer quiet island living in Crete, Rhodes, or want to settle in a charming city like Athens, or the coast of Peloponnese, Greece is more than ready to welcome you.

Retiring abroad should feel exciting, not overwhelming. At Mitos Relocation, we specialize in guiding retirees through every step of settling down in Greece and beyond, combining international expertise with trusted local partners.

From visas and tax incentives to housing, healthcare, and even bringing your pets, our services are tailored to your personal situation. Transparent, reliable, and cost-effective, we help you plan and execute a smooth relocation—so you can embrace your new chapter with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

Book a call with Mitos Relocation and make your transition to Greece seamless!

FAQs

Q1. Is there a specific retirement visa for Greece?

No, Greece does not offer an official “retirement visa.” However, the Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa is the most suitable option for non-EU retirees who want to live in Greece without working.

Q2. What is the Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa?

The FIP Visa is a long-stay visa for non-EU citizens, like those from the US, UK, or Canada, who can support themselves financially. It requires a monthly income of at least €3,500 or proof of significant savings and includes other conditions like health insurance and a clean criminal record.

Q3. How is the Golden Visa different from the FIP Visa?

The Golden Visa is based on real estate investment. It allows individuals who purchase property worth at least €250,000 in Greece to gain residency. It does not require proof of income but mandates maintaining the investment to keep your legal status.

Q4. Can I bring my family with me on the FIP or Golden Visa?

Yes, both visa options allow retirees to include a spouse and dependent children. Financial requirements increase for each additional family member, and the same supporting documents must be submitted for them as well. The Golden Visa also allows bringing your parents and in-laws.

Q5. What happens after I get my visa?

After receiving your FIP, you must apply for a Greek residence permit within the country. This permit allows long-term stay, access to services, and visa-free travel within the Schengen Area. 

The Golden Visa gives you the automatic right to live in Greece, without any obligation to relocate permanently. 

Both can be renewed and may lead to permanent residency or citizenship.