Greece•EuropeI.8 — Financially Independent Person Visa (Οικονομικά Ανεξάρτητο Πρόσωπο - FIP)
At a Glance
Varies
EUR €150
Varies (Renewable for 3-year periods indefinitely)
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Three-year renewable residence permit for non-EU retirees or individuals with stable passive income of at least €3,500/month, without the right to work locally in Greece.
The Financially Independent Person (FIP) visa is a long-standing residency option for non-EU/EEA nationals who possess sufficient independent means to live in Greece without engaging in local employment. It fills the gap for retirees, passive income earners, and individuals with significant savings who want to relocate to Greece for lifestyle reasons. By requiring proof of stable, non-work-related income, the law ensures that these residents can support themselves and their families without burdening the Greek public welfare system.
This permit is for individuals who can demonstrate a steady monthly income of at least €3,500 (plus additional amounts for dependents) derived from sources such as pensions, dividends, rental income, or interest. Applicants must also have private health insurance and a permanent place of residence in Greece. It is distinctive because it prohibits local employment, making it ideal for retirees or those living off investments. It offers a three-year renewable permit and is a popular choice for those seeking a high quality of life in a secure, Mediterranean environment.
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
Must be a non-EU/EEA citizen.
Must possess sufficient, stable, and regular annual income from sources outside of Greece (e.g., pensions, dividends, or investments).
Minimum monthly income requirement is €3,500 (increased by 20% for a spouse and 15% for each child).
Must not engage in any form of employment or independent economic activity within Greece.
Must have private health insurance covering the entire duration of stay.
Must have a clean criminal record.
Must reside in Greece for at least 183 days per year to maintain the permit.
KEY CRITERIA
Min. Income
42,000 EUR/yr
Min. Savings
126,000 EUR
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport
Income proof
Savings documentation
Income source documentation
Medical certificate
Criminal record certificate
Proof of accommodation
Health insurance
Application Process
Gather financial documentation
Proof of passive income or savings
Prepare visa documents
Passport, medical certificate, criminal record
Apply at Greek embassy
Submit FIP visa application
Biometric appointment
Fingerprints and photo
Pay visa fee
EUR 150
Processing period
Usually 4-8 weeks
Receive visa
Type D visa sticker
Apply for residence permit
Within 30 days of arrival in Greece
Application Forms
| FIP Visa Application | — |
Related visas
More visas in Greece
Retirement visas in other countries
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