I.8 — Financially Independent Person Visa (Οικονομικά Ανεξάρτητο Πρόσωπο - FIP)
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I.8 — Financially Independent Person Visa (Οικονομικά Ανεξάρτητο Πρόσωπο - FIP)

Work Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

EUR €150

Stay Duration

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

Official Information

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.

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

1

Gather financial documentation

Proof of passive income or savings

2

Prepare visa documents

Passport, medical certificate, criminal record

3

Apply at Greek embassy

Submit FIP visa application

4

Biometric appointment

Fingerprints and photo

5

Pay visa fee

EUR 150

6

Processing period

Usually 4-8 weeks

7

Receive visa

Type D visa sticker

8

Apply for residence permit

Within 30 days of arrival in Greece

Application Forms

FIP Visa Application—

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