Meta Description
The Greece FIP Visa allows financially self-sufficient individuals to obtain renewable residency by showing €2,000 monthly income. Learn requirements, benefits, and how it leads to citizenship in 7 years.
Introduction
Greece’s Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa offers a pathway to long-term residency for those who can prove stable, independent income. Unlike the popular Golden Visa, the FIP Visa requires no real estate purchase or financial investment—only proof of sufficient recurring income.
This program is particularly attractive for retirees, remote workers, and individuals with passive income, who want to enjoy Greek residency while living in a Schengen country. Successful applicants can achieve permanent residency after 5 years and apply for citizenship after 7 years, provided they maintain tax residency and integrate into Greek society.
Program at a Glance
- Program Type: Independent Means Visa
- Minimum Investment: None (income-based)
- Minimum Income Requirement: €2,000/month (plus €400 for spouse, €300 per dependent)
- Visa Validity: 2 years (renewable for 3 years)
- Time to Permanent Residency: 5 years
- Time to Citizenship: 7 years (with language and cultural integration)
- Physical Presence Requirement: At least 183 days/year in Greece (tax residency)
- Application Processing Time: 2–3 months
- Visa-Free Travel (Citizenship): ~185 destinations, including Schengen states
- Contribution Types: No donation or investment required
General Requirements
To qualify for the FIP Visa, applicants must:
- Prove Independent Income At least €2,000/month for the main applicant. Additional €400/month for a spouse. Additional €300/month per dependent child. Acceptable sources: pensions, dividends, rental income, annuities, bank deposits.
- Pay Processing Fees Application and visa fees total €2,500.
- Embassy Application & Interview Applicants must apply through the Greek embassy/consulate in their home country. A brief in-person interview is conducted to confirm the purpose of residence.
- Health Insurance & Accommodation Proof of valid health insurance covering Greece. Proof of rental or ownership of accommodation.
Benefits of the FIP Visa
- No Investment Requirement – unlike Golden Visa programs, no property purchase is needed.
- Family-Friendly – spouse and dependents can be included.
- Schengen Access – free movement across Schengen countries.
- Path to EU Citizenship – eligibility after 7 years of continuous residence.
- Dual/Multiple Citizenship Allowed – Greece permits multiple nationalities.
- Affordable Lifestyle – low living costs compared to Western Europe.
- Quality of Life – Mediterranean climate, rich culture, and safety.
Path to Citizenship
- Initial Visa – valid for 2 years.
- Renewal – extendable by 3 years if income proof continues.
- Permanent Residency – eligible after 5 years of continuous residence.
- Citizenship – eligible after 7 years, requiring: Proof of tax residency, Passing a Greek language and integration exam (covers history and culture).
Program Authority
- Administered by: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Greece
- Legal Basis: Article 20, Immigration Law 4251/2014
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How much monthly income do I need?
A: €2,000 for the applicant, €400 for a spouse, and €300 for each dependent child.
Q2: Do I need to buy property in Greece?
A: No. The FIP Visa requires only proof of income, not real estate investment.
Q3: Can I work in Greece on this visa?
A: The FIP Visa is intended for those with passive income. Active employment in Greece is generally not permitted.
Q4: Does Greece allow dual citizenship?
A: Yes, Greece permits multiple citizenships.
Q5: When can I apply for citizenship?
A: After 7 years of continuous residency, provided you pass the Greek language and culture test.
User Comments
Sophia – Retiree from Germany
The FIP Visa was ideal for me. With my pension, I easily met the income requirements and enjoy life in Crete.
Michael – Remote Worker from USA
Greece gave me the chance to live in Europe without needing to buy property. But I must stay 183+ days each year.
Ana – Investor from Brazil
I like that I didn’t need to lock money into real estate. The process was fast—about 2.5 months.
Hassan – Expat from UAE
The integration requirement for citizenship is strict, but overall the visa is a cost-effective way to settle in Greece.
Editor’s Note
The Greek FIP Visa is one of the most straightforward income-based residency options in Europe, well-suited for retirees, freelancers, and digital nomads with stable income streams.
Compared to the Golden Visa, it is cheaper and does not require an investment, but it comes with stricter physical presence requirements (183+ days/year). For those who genuinely want to live in Greece full-time, the FIP Visa is an excellent choice.
Tags
Greece FIP Visa | Financially Independent Person Greece | Residency by Income | Greek Citizenship | Schengen Residency | EU Residency Programs
