Greece•EuropeSelf-Employment Residence Permit (Άδεια Διαμονής Ανεξάρτητης Εργασίας)
At a Glance
Varies
EUR €150
Varies (Permanent status, no renewal required)
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Residence permit for foreign nationals establishing or operating their own business in Greece, requiring an approved business plan and proof of sufficient financial resources.
The Self-Employment Residence Permit is intended for foreign nationals who wish to establish or operate a business or engage in independent economic activity within Greece. This permit is designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors who can prove that their business activities will be beneficial to the Greek economy. Applicants must provide a robust business plan and demonstrate that they possess the financial stability to support themselves and any accompanying family members without relying on the Greek social welfare system.
This pathway requires a rigorous application process, often beginning with a national Type D visa obtained from a Greek consulate in the applicant's home country. Once in Greece, the individual must transition to a residence permit, which is typically granted for an initial period of two years and is renewable. Holders of this permit gain the right to reside in Greece and enjoy many of the privileges afforded to residents, provided they maintain their business activity, pay required taxes, and adhere to Greek social security obligations.
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
Valid passport
Proof of sufficient financial resources (minimum income requirements vary by status, often exceeding 3,500 EUR/month for specific categories)
Detailed business plan demonstrating the viability and contribution to the Greek economy
Proof of legal status in the country of origin
Comprehensive health insurance coverage
Clean criminal record
Proof of accommodation in Greece
Registration with relevant Greek professional or insurance bodies (e.g., EFKA)
KEY CRITERIA
Education
bachelor or higher
Min. Income
24,000 EUR/yr
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Completed national visa application form
Valid passport and copies
Business plan approved by relevant Greek authorities
Proof of financial means (bank statements, income certificates)
Health insurance policy
Criminal record certificate
Proof of accommodation (lease agreement or property title)
Receipt of administrative fees
Recent passport-sized photographs
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Allows legal residence and the right to conduct business in Greece.
- Provides a pathway to long-term residency and potential citizenship after 5 years of legal stay.
- Allows for family reunification (family members can join the applicant).
- Grants freedom of movement within the Schengen Area.
Worth Knowing
- The business plan must be approved by the Ministry of Economy/Migration, which can be a rigorous process.
- High financial threshold for investment-linked self-employment.
- Renewal of the permit depends on the continued viability of the business and fulfillment of tax/social security obligations.
- Administrative processing times can be lengthy.
Application Process
Complete 5 years residence
Continuous legal residence in Greece for 5 years (short absences <6 months allowed)
Verify residence
Gather proof of 5-year continuous residence
Apply for permanent permit
Submit application at local immigration office
Provide documentation
Residence permit history, rental agreements, utility bills
Pay application fee
EUR 150
Processing period
Usually 4-8 weeks
Receive permanent permit
Indefinite residence status
Application Forms
| Permanent Residence Application | — |
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