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Japa: Greece’s new visa programme targets freelancers, tech talents

Greece invites freelancers, digital nomads with new visa program

Greece is welcoming freelance writers, developers, bloggers, and other remote workers to apply for its Digital Nomad Visa program, allowing non-European nationals including Nigerians to live and work in the country without the need for a job offer from a Greek employer.

This visa program is specifically designed to accommodate remote workers who serve employers from all around the world and meet a particular salary threshold, granting them the opportunity to reside in Greece.

Reports indicate that approximately 1,693 digital nomad visas have already been granted in Greece, highlighting the growing interest in this opportunity.

Key details of the digital nomad visa

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa is initially valid for one year, with the possibility of extension. A notable advantage of this visa is the freedom it offers to travel to other European Schengen countries and beyond.

Holders of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa can work remotely for any employer or company registered outside of Greece. This includes various professions such as YouTubers, bloggers, travel bloggers, freelance writers, developers, and others.

The application processing time can vary from 10 days to one month. If an applicant is working for a company remotely, a valid letter of employment is required.

Financial requirements for the visa

To apply for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa in 2023, applicants should be aware of the following financial requirements:

  • €75 application fee.
  • €150 administration fee

As of October 2023, a monthly salary of at least €3,500 is necessary.
If you plan to relocate with your spouse and one dependent, you must demonstrate the ability to earn €4,830 per month.

Tax obligations for digital nomads in Greece

Digital nomads staying in Greece for less than six months are exempt from tax payments. However, once their stay exceeds six months, tax obligations become applicable.

According to Greek law, half of your monthly income will be tax-exempt during your first seven years as a digital nomad.

Popular places for digital nomads, creatives in Greece

Greece, situated in Europe, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, islands, beaches, and cuisine. Here are some popular cities within Greece where digital nomads can reside while working remotely:

Athens: The capital city of Greece offers an affordable cost of living and boasts historical sites such as the Acropolis, museums, and numerous churches. It provides approximately 40 coworking spaces.

Read also: 5 ways visa free access unlocks Africa’s economy

Thessaloniki: This city features six coworking spaces, making it an attractive location for digital nomads. Thessaloniki offers various attractions like the White Tower, Hagios Demetrios, Aristotelous Square, the lively Ladadika district, and more.

Santorini: The dream destination of Santorini beckons many with its stunning beaches, iconic white houses, and picturesque lighthouse. Thanks to the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, you can now work remotely while enjoying the island’s charms.

Rhodes: Rhodes is characterized by medieval architecture, beautiful landscapes, and enchanting locations.

Throughout Greece, digital nomads can find coworking spaces such as Stone Soup, Coho, The Cube Athens, Spaces Ermou, Spaces Theanous, POS Coworking Space, OK!Thesis, POS Coworking Space, and Patras Tiny Coworking Space. This allows them to work efficiently in a collaborative environment while experiencing the beauty and culture of Greece.

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