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Self-Employment Residence Permit (Άδεια Διαμονής Ανεξάρτητης Εργασίας)
VisasGreeceSelf-Employment Residence Permit (Άδεια Διαμονής Ανεξάρτητης Εργασίας)
GreeceGreece•Europe
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Self-Employment Residence Permit (Άδεια Διαμονής Ανεξάρτητης Εργασίας)

Work PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Application Fee

150 EUR

Stay Duration

Varies (Permanent status, no renewal required)

Renewable

Yes

Job Offer

Not Required

Dependents

Allowed

PR Pathway

Available

Remote Work

Not Required

Official Information

Overview

Residence permit for foreign nationals establishing or operating their own business in Greece, requiring an approved business plan and proof of sufficient financial resources.

The Self-Employment Residence Permit is intended for foreign nationals who wish to establish or operate a business or engage in independent economic activity within Greece. This permit is designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors who can prove that their business activities will be beneficial to the Greek economy. Applicants must provide a robust business plan and demonstrate that they possess the financial stability to support themselves and any accompanying family members without relying on the Greek social welfare system.

This pathway requires a rigorous application process, often beginning with a national Type D visa obtained from a Greek consulate in the applicant's home country. Once in Greece, the individual must transition to a residence permit, which is typically granted for an initial period of two years and is renewable. Holders of this permit gain the right to reside in Greece and enjoy many of the privileges afforded to residents, provided they maintain their business activity, pay required taxes, and adhere to Greek social security obligations.

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

G.1 — EU Long-Term Resident Permit (Άδεια Επί Μακρόν Διαμένοντος - G.1)
Greece flagGreece

G.1 — EU Long-Term Resident Permit (Άδεια Επί Μακρόν Διαμένοντος - G.1)

ValidityIndefinite
Processing180-365 days
View Visa Details

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Valid passport

Proof of sufficient financial resources (minimum income requirements vary by status, often exceeding 3,500 EUR/month for specific categories)

Detailed business plan demonstrating the viability and contribution to the Greek economy

Proof of legal status in the country of origin

Comprehensive health insurance coverage

Clean criminal record

Proof of accommodation in Greece

Registration with relevant Greek professional or insurance bodies (e.g., EFKA)

KEY CRITERIA

Education

bachelor or higher

Min. Income

24,000 EUR/yr

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Completed national visa application form

Valid passport and copies

Business plan approved by relevant Greek authorities

Proof of financial means (bank statements, income certificates)

Health insurance policy

Criminal record certificate

Proof of accommodation (lease agreement or property title)

Receipt of administrative fees

Recent passport-sized photographs

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Allows legal residence and the right to conduct business in Greece.
  • Provides a pathway to long-term residency and potential citizenship after 5 years of legal stay.
  • Allows for family reunification (family members can join the applicant).
  • Grants freedom of movement within the Schengen Area.

Worth Knowing

  • The business plan must be approved by the Ministry of Economy/Migration, which can be a rigorous process.
  • High financial threshold for investment-linked self-employment.
  • Renewal of the permit depends on the continued viability of the business and fulfillment of tax/social security obligations.
  • Administrative processing times can be lengthy.

Application Process

1

Complete 5 years residence: Continuous legal residence in Greece for 5 years (short absences <6 months allowed)

2

Verify residence: Gather proof of 5-year continuous residence

3

Apply for permanent permit: Submit application at local immigration office

4

Provide documentation: Residence permit history, rental agreements, utility bills

5

Pay application fee: EUR 150

6

Processing period: Usually 4-8 weeks

7

Receive permanent permit: Indefinite residence status

Application Forms

Permanent Residence Application—

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