Greece has long been a popular destination for British expats thanks to its stunning Mediterranean coastline, rich history, and low cost of living. As of 2019 alone, 17,230 British expats were living in Greece.
In this article, we’ll introduce the main reasons for moving to Greece from the UK, the main preparations prior to the relocation, visa and residency requirements in Greece, and the opportunities for the Greece Golden Visa for UK nationals.
Key Takeaways
- Greece has positioned itself as a cherished destination among foreign expats thanks to its affordable cost of living, warm climate, property prices, and tax incentives.
- Moving to Greece from the UK has become more complex post-Brexit, as UK nationals need to get a visa based on the purpose of the visit.
- Greece Golden Visa program offers a more straightforward pathway to Greek residency in return for an investment in real estate or government bonds.
- Get expert guidance at Mirabello Consultancy to have a well-structured and organized relocation to Greece.
Reasons to Move to Greece
Moving to Greece from the UK can involve a significant shift in lifestyle, whether relocating to start a new career, establish a business, or simply enjoy a peaceful retirement amidst the sun-kissed landscapes. It is not a secret that the UK is a huge business hub with a strong economy and a favorable environment for entrepreneurs. Why do UK citizens prefer to relocate to Greece, you might ask?
Climate and Lifestyle
Greece offers sunny and warm weather in contrast to the UK’s temperate climate. So it’s usually a positive experience for those UK expats who favor sunshine and mild winters. The laid-back lifestyle and peaceful atmosphere are also the main draws for relocation.
Cost of Living
The average cost of living is 44% lower than in the UK. The country provides an affordable lifestyle with a monthly living expense of approximately €809.6 for a single person without rent. The cost of living for a family of four is calculated to be €2,774.60.
Property Prices
In general, Greece is more affordable for both rent and purchase compared to the UK. Prices for rent in Greece range from €490.88 to €585.83 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. While in the UK, prices range from £1,868.43 to £2,485.84 per month.
It’s worth mentioning that with the growing popularity and interest in Greece among expats, real estate prices are steadily rising.
Tax Incentives
Greece offers various incentives, such as a 50% tax reduction for angel investors in start-up companies and a flat 7% tax rate on foreign pensions for retirees. So, Greece has a more progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 9% to 44%. The latter is imposed on income over €40,000.
Pre-Move Preparation
Before jumping into the specific preparations required for relocating from the UK to Greece, it’s important to first understand the context of Brexit and how it has affected the process.
The UK’s withdrawal from the EU, commonly known as Brexit, has dramatically impacted the movement of people and goods between the UK and other EU member states, including Greece. Prior to Brexit, UK nationals enjoyed the freedom of movement and the ability to work, live, and study in any EU member state without a visa or any other paperwork. However, the post-Brexit environment has brought new requirements and considerations for UK nationals planning to move to Greece from the UK. So, to face the upcoming challenges, the Greek government and public administration have worked tirelessly to ensure that the long-standing relations between the UK and Greece will thrive, benefiting both countries, especially their citizens.
Starting January 21, 2021, all UK nationals will be able to travel to and from Greece without a visa for 90 days in any 180-day period, using a valid passport. This applies to visits for tourism, business, and other similar purposes. But, if the visit is planned for a longer stay, UK nationals who are not covered by the Withdrawal Agreement should meet the entry requirements, meaning they might need to apply for a national visa or a residence permit. To be clear, the ones who did not have the right of free movement prior to the end of the transition period and moved to the EU for residency are not covered by the Withdrawal Agreement.
Thus, knowing all the rules and regulations and preparing beforehand are musts to avoid unwanted situations. Here are a few things one should consider before moving to Greece from the UK.
Visa and Residency Requirements
As mentioned above, all UK nationals planning to stay in Greece longer than 90 days will need a visa or a residence permit, depending on the purpose of the stay. The most common option is a Type-D long-stay visa. We’ll talk about the visa types and their requirements in the next section.
Language Barrier
This is a common challenge for UK nationals planning to relocate to Greece. Greek is the official language of the country, and while many Greeks speak English, it’s not universally spoken. Understanding the language barrier and taking steps to learn the Greek language will greatly contribute to the rapid integration into Greek society.
Financial Planning
It’s important to consider the financial readiness before the move. In order to get a residence permit in Greece, one should have a source of income. So, it’s advisable to start the search for a job and attend interviews during the 90-day stay.
It’s also important to look into banks in Greece and, if possible, open an account prior to the visit.
Healthcare Coverage
The reciprocal healthcare arrangements between the UK and other EU member states, including Greece, have been affected after Brexit. UK nationals may need to have private healthcare insurance to access healthcare services in Greece.
Mobility of Goods and Belongings
The mobility of personal belongings and other household items from the UK to Greece might be subject to new customs and import regulations, which need to be carefully researched.
Visa and Residency Requirements
While UK nationals no longer have free movement rights to the EU post-Brexit, there are still several visa and residency options available for living and working in Greece, including the well-known Greek Golden Visa program. Each visa type is designed to accommodate an individual’s circumstances and intended length of stay.
Type C Schengen visa is ideal for those planning to travel to Greece. The holders have the right to stay in Greece for 90 days in a 180-day period.
UK nationals who plan to stay longer than 3 months need to apply for a Type D visa. It has different categories for employment, family reunification, and study. To secure an employment visa, there will be a need to present a work contract verified by public authorities.
For family reunification, there should be proof of family affiliation with a Greek national, who must, in turn, provide evidence of accommodation and sufficient income. In the case of student visas, UK nationals must provide specific documentation, including proof of enrollment in a Greek educational institution, payment of fees, and sufficient income to support themselves.
Golden Visa is a popular residency by investment scheme allowing non-EU nationals, including UK citizens, to live and work in Greece. The program requires a minimum investment of €250,000 in Greek real estate in return for a bunch of benefits.
Anyone moving to Greece from the UK with a visa valid for a year or longer must apply for a residence permit. Along with the right to live in Greece, the permit grants holders access to public healthcare. An appointment to apply for a residence permit should be booked at the nearest Hellenic Police station with an Aliens Department.
Residence permits for employment are valid for 1 to 2 years and can be renewed for up to 3. The residence permit for Golden visa holders is valid for 5 years. It’s important to note that stayingstays shorter than a year does not require a residence permit.
Greece Golden Visa Opportunities for UK Citizens
The Greece Golden Visa offers UK citizens a more straightforward pathway to residency and citizenship in Greece through investment. The program is designed to grant a five-year residence permit in Greece in exchange for investing a designated amount of money in specific sectors.
The Greece Golden Visa offers a number of benefits not only for an individual but also for the whole family. The visa holders do not need an additional visa to travel to the Schengen area. It also opens up doors to 185 visa-free or visa-on-arrival traveling. Among other advantages that the Greece Golden Visa brings to the table for expats moving to Greece from the UK are the exceptionally low cost of living, access to educational schools with a British curriculum, a high-quality healthcare system, and favorable tax treatments.
The program offers different investment options, the main one being investment in real estate. Investors can choose to invest in real estate properties with a minimum value of €250,000.
The Greece Golden Visa is set to introduce significant changes in 2024. The updated program will categorize real estate investments into different levels. For developed urban areas, such as Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, the minimum investment will increase to €800,000. The wider areas of Greece will have a more accessible entry point of €400,000. These changes await parliamentary approval before they become official.
Life in Greece: Pros and Cons
Life in Greece is characterized by a blend of modern urban living and rich historical heritage. Known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming people. Greece offers a unique experience both for tourists and expats. For those considering moving to Greece from the UK, it’s essential to understand both the advantages and disadvantages of living in this Mediterranean country.
Pros
- Good weather - Greece has the best climate in Europe, counting more than 3000 hours of sunshine every year. This warm weather is very welcoming and appealing.
- Affordable cost of living - Greece offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to other European countries, making the country one of the most cherished destinations among expats and retirees.
- Low crime rate - Greece has a very low crime rate, making it a safe place to visit and live
- Healthcare system - Greece has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private options available.
- Friendly culture - The country is known for its warm hospitality and welcoming nature, making it easy for newcomers to get integrated.
- Rich history and culture - Greece is steeped in history and culture, with numerous ancient ruins, museums, and festivals to explore.
Cons
- Language barrier - Greek is a complex language that can be difficult for non-native speakers to learn, resulting in communication challenges.
- Bureaucracy - Greece is known for its bureaucratic processes, which can be time-consuming and frustrating for expats.
- Tourist overcrowding - Popular tourist destinations can become overcrowded during the high season, impacting the local lifestyle.
Financial and Tax Considerations in Greece
Understanding the tax implications and financial regulation before moving to Greece from the UK can help ensure a smooth transition and prevent any unwanted surprises. Let’s pass on some crucial knowledge. So, UK expats are considered tax residents in Greece if they spend more than 183 days a year in the country.
The country offers tax reductions, including charitable donations, education expenses, and mortgage interest. Greece has tax agreements with several countries, including the UK, to avoid taxing the same income twice.
The country has a mandatory health insurance system, and private insurance options are also available. It’s also worth mentioning that Greece has strict financial regulations to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing.
Conclusion
Moving to Greece from the UK post-Brexit presents a mix of opportunities and challenges. The appealing climate, cost of living, and rich historical heritage continue to attract British expats. However, the post-Brexit landscape has introduced new visa and residency requirements that must be carefully navigated. By carefully preparing for these requirements, UK nationals can successfully transition to life in Greece.
Greece Golden Visa offers an attractive pathway to Greek residency and, eventually, citizenship by making a financial contribution in one of the sectors. Overall, with a clear understanding of the necessary steps and proper preparation, moving to Greece from the UK can lead to a fulfilling experience.
For those who have firmly decided to relocate, Mirabello Consultancy provides comprehensive guidance to ensure you are fully prepared for your transition, considering every detail.
FAQ
- Is it cheaper to live in Greece or the UK?
The overall cost of living in Greece is 40-47% lower than in the UK. Housing costs are significantly higher in the UK, averaging 143.4% more than in Greece.
- What is the 5-year law in Greece?
The Greece Golden Visa program allows non-EU nationals, including UK citizens, to obtain a 5-year residence permit in Greece by investing €250,000 in the country.
- How can I live permanently in Greece?
There are different options that lead to a permanent residency in Greece, including the Greece Golden Visa program, work visa, retirement visa, family reunification, and more.
