Greece offers a welcoming and structured immigration process for family reunification. If you are a non-EU national who has a close family member legally residing in Greece—either as a citizen, permanent resident, or long-term visa holder—you may be eligible to apply for a Greece Family Visa (Type D Long-Stay Visa). This visa allows you to enter and live in Greece for extended periods to join and reside with your family.
This visa is available to family members of:
Greek citizens
EU/EEA citizens residing in Greece
Non-EU nationals legally residing in Greece (e.g., workers, students, refugees, or those with permanent residence)
Eligible family members include:
Spouse (married partner)
Unmarried minor children (biological or adopted)
Dependent parents (in certain cases)
Applicants must submit the following documents to the Greek Embassy or Consulate:
Valid passport – Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay
Completed and signed visa application form
Recent passport-size photographs – As per Schengen guidelines
Proof of family relationship:
Marriage certificate (for spouses)
Birth certificate (for children or parents)
Legalized invitation or sponsorship letter – From the family member in Greece
Copy of sponsor’s Greek residence permit or passport
Proof of adequate housing – Rental agreement or proof of home ownership
Proof of financial means – Sponsor must show sufficient income to support dependents
Medical insurance – Covering at least €30,000 for healthcare within the Schengen area
Clean criminal record certificate – From applicant’s country of residence
Medical certificate – Showing no communicable diseases
Processing time: 4 to 8 weeks
Visa validity: Typically issued for up to 1 year, extendable by applying for a residence permit in Greece
Residence permit must be applied for within 30 days of arrival
Standard visa application fee: €90
Additional fees may apply for document translation, legalization, or biometric data processing
You must apply for the Greece Family Visa at the Greek Embassy or Consulate in your home country or country of legal residence. An in-person interview and biometric data submission may be required.
Once you arrive in Greece, you must:
Register your stay with the local Aliens and Immigration Department
Submit an application for a Family Residence Permit
Provide updated documents such as rental contracts and medical insurance
Family members residing in Greece under a valid residence permit have access to:
Healthcare
Education
Employment (in some cases, depending on the type of permit granted)
Simple and supportive family immigration policies
Access to EU-level healthcare and education
Opportunity for eventual permanent residence and citizenship
A safe and scenic environment to build a new life together
Ensure all legal documents (e.g., marriage/birth certificates) are translated into Greek and apostilled or legalized according to embassy instructions. Begin your visa process well in advance (at least 2-3 months) before your planned travel date.
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