F.1 — Family Reunification - Spouse (Οικογενειακή Επανένωση Συζύγου - F.1)
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F.1 — Family Reunification - Spouse (Οικογενειακή Επανένωση Συζύγου - F.1)

Residency Pathway

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

EUR €150

Stay Duration

Varies (Valid as long as sponsor maintains legal residence in Greece)

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information

Overview

Residence permit for the spouse of a third-country national legally residing in Greece for at least two years, with employment access after first renewal.

The Family Reunification - Spouse (F.1) permit is rooted in European and national immigration laws that uphold the right to family life. It fills the critical gap for non-EU/EEA nationals who are already legally residing in Greece—such as workers, investors, or students—and wish to bring their spouses to live with them. The policy ensures that long-term residents can maintain their family unit, which is considered essential for integration and social stability within the host country.

This permit is for the legally married spouse of a third-country national who holds a valid Greek residence permit. The sponsor must demonstrate financial stability and adequate housing to support the family unit. It is distinctive because it grants the spouse the same rights as the sponsor, including potential access to the labor market and social services. It is ideal for families who wish to relocate or stay together in Greece, providing a secure legal framework that recognizes the importance of family cohesion during the residency period.

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

The sponsor must be a non-EU/EEA citizen holding a valid residence permit in Greece.

The sponsor must have resided legally in Greece for at least two years (exceptions apply for refugees).

The child must be unmarried and under the age of 18.

The sponsor (or their spouse) must have legal custody of the child.

The sponsor must demonstrate stable and sufficient annual income to cover the needs of the family (minimum wage plus 15% for each child).

The sponsor must provide proof of adequate housing for the family.

The family members must have comprehensive health insurance coverage.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Marriage certificate

Partnership registration

Birth certificates

Custody documents

Health insurance

Criminal record certificate

Residence permit (sponsor)

Proof of 2+ years residence (sponsor)

Financial proof (sponsor)

Accommodation proof (sponsor)

Health insurance (sponsor)

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Allows the spouse to join the sponsor in Greece.
  • Grants the spouse a residence permit linked to the sponsor's status.
  • Access to health and education services in Greece.
  • Provides a path to long-term residency.

Worth Knowing

  • The process is often lengthy and requires strict documentation.
  • Sponsor must meet specific financial and housing thresholds.
  • The spouse's residence permit is tied to the validity of the sponsor's permit.
  • Fee for the residence permit is EUR 150 (plus potential visa fees).

Application Process

1

Sponsor applies

Non-EU resident in Greece applies for family reunification

2

Prepare family documents

Marriage/partnership certificates, birth certificates, custody documents

3

Prove financial capacity

Income and accommodation proof

4

Family members apply for visa

At Greek embassy in their country of residence

5

Submit documentation

Family relationship, health insurance, criminal records

6

Biometric appointment

Fingerprints and photos

7

Pay visa fee

EUR 150 per family member

8

Receive visa

Usually within 4-12 weeks

9

Apply for residence permit

Within 30 days of arrival in Greece

Application Forms

Family Reunification Visa Application—

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