Greece•EuropeF.1 — Family Reunification - Spouse (Οικογενειακή Επανένωση Συζύγου - F.1)
At a Glance
Varies
EUR €150
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
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.
GreeceG.1 — EU Long-Term Resident Permit (Άδεια Επί Μακρόν Διαμένοντος - G.1)
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
Sponsor applies
Non-EU resident in Greece applies for family reunification
Prepare family documents
Marriage/partnership certificates, birth certificates, custody documents
Prove financial capacity
Income and accommodation proof
Family members apply for visa
At Greek embassy in their country of residence
Submit documentation
Family relationship, health insurance, criminal records
Biometric appointment
Fingerprints and photos
Pay visa fee
EUR 150 per family member
Receive visa
Usually within 4-12 weeks
Apply for residence permit
Within 30 days of arrival in Greece
Application Forms
| Family Reunification Visa Application | — |
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Netherlands
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United States
- Private Purposes Visa (Type C) (Частная виза)
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