Expat Immigration Guide: Moving to Athens

Immigration Overview

Athens scores 3.0/5 for personal security and 4.0/5 for cost of living, making it an accessible destination for expat families. Budget for approximately 8 immigration-related costs including visa fees and permits.

Quick Stats

Security Score

3.0 /5

Cost of Living

4.0 /5

Weather Score

3.0 /5

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$1,173

Monthly Costs

$0/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Civil Documents $30

Apostille Authentication $25

Document Translation $40

Showing 6 of 8 costs — sign up to see all

Want to See Your Numbers?

Get personalized immigration costs, timelines, and checklists for your family in Athens.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Practical Tips

Book appointments for immigration services at the Petrou Ralli office through the official Ministry of Migration and Asylum online portal.

Online booking is now the primary method for most services, allowing you to secure a specific time slot and avoid long, uncertain queues.

Utilize suburban KEP offices like Glyfada for submitting residence permit renewal documents.

These offices can be less crowded than central Athens KEPs, making the submission process quicker, though actual permit processing still takes weeks to months.

Appoint a local accountant to request your AFM (tax number), as they can manage the process remotely with appropriate power of attorney.

Accountants are authorized to handle AFM applications on your behalf, often interacting with various tax offices to secure the number efficiently without your physical presence.

Engage an immigration lawyer or specialized consultant to assist with your applications and appointment scheduling.

These professionals are familiar with the procedures, booking nuances, and often have specific channels for submitting documents or representing clients, potentially streamlining the process.

Useful Links

Ministry of Migration and Asylum

Official government site providing comprehensive information on migration policies, asylum procedures, and residence permits for foreigners relocating to Greece.

›

Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Government portal offering visa information, consular services, and diplomatic mission contacts for foreigners planning to move to Greece.

›

EU Immigration Portal - Greece

Official EU resource providing country-specific immigration requirements for Greece, particularly useful for EU citizens relocating to Athens.

›

Ministry of Citizen Protection - Aliens & Immigration

Official police department site with information on residence permits, registration procedures, and legal requirements for foreign nationals.

›

Decentralized Administration of Attica - Immigration Department

Local government authority handling residence permits and immigration services specifically for Athens and the surrounding Attica region.

›

Explore Other Guides

Housing Guide Education Guide Healthcare Guide Finance Guide Transport Guide Pets Guide

Immigration Guides in Greece

Thessaloniki

View all 140+ city guides →

Frequently Asked Questions

Moving to Athens typically requires a valid visa, proof of financial means, and health insurance. The specific requirements depend on your nationality and purpose of stay. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see a personalized immigration checklist.

Processing times vary by visa type and nationality. Work permits may take 2–6 months, while residence permits can take 1–3 months after arrival. Use ReloPlanner to track your step-by-step immigration timeline.

There are approximately 8 immigration-related costs to consider when moving to Athens, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

Plan Your Entire Move to Athens

Access step-by-step guides, personalized budgets, and expert tips for immigration and 6 other relocation categories across 140+ cities.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Data verified: March 2026

This was the general picture

Your move to Athens looks nothing like this

This guide covers Athens for everyone. Your plan covers your origin country, your kids' ages, your budget, your dog — with real costs, a sequenced task list, and the things most families don't find out until it's too late.

Build your personalised plan — free →

Takes 2 minutes to set up