International Removals to Greece

Yes – but your eligibility depends on your nationality and the purpose of your stay.

✔ EU/EEA/Swiss citizens – Can move to Greece without a job.

You must register your residence at the local municipal office (Δήμος) within 3 months of arrival and show:

• Proof of sufficient financial means (e.g. bank savings, pension)

• Valid health insurance covering your stay in Greece

✔ Non-EU citizens – Must apply for a residence permit before moving, through the Greek consulate in your home country. Common options include:

• Work visa (job offer from a Greek employer)

• Student visa

• Family reunification visa

• Residence permit for financially independent persons (similar to passive income visa) – Requires stable income of at least €2,000/month

✔ Remote workers & freelancers – Greece does offer a Digital Nomad Visa since 2021. To qualify, you must:

• Work remotely for a company outside Greece (or be self-employed with international clients)

• Earn at least €3,500/month (net), plus extra for dependents

• Have proof of remote work, health insurance, and accommodation

✔ Tourist visa holders (Schengen) – Cannot work or stay long-term. If you plan to remain in Greece beyond 90 days, you must apply for the appropriate residence permit before your visa expires.

Tip: Visit Greece’s official immigration site migration.gov.gr or the Ministry of Migration and Asylum for detailed information on permit types and application steps.

Processing times vary depending on the type of permit and the completeness of your application.

Work permit

• 8–12 weeks

• Applies to non-EU citizens who have secured a job offer in Greece. The process includes pre-approval from the Greek Ministry of Migration and issuance of a national D visa before entering the country.

Student residence permit

• 4–6 weeks

• Generally processed faster due to clear eligibility criteria. You must apply within 90 days of arrival using a national D visa issued for studies.

Family reunification

• 2–3 months, sometimes longer

• Depends on factors like relationship proof, income, housing space, and local municipality workload.

Digital Nomad Visa

• 3–6 weeks

• Greece launched its Digital Nomad Visa in 2021. Processing times are usually shorter when documentation is complete and income requirements are met (€3,500+ per month).

✔ All non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens must apply before arrival via the Greek consulate in their home country (unless converting from a D visa).

✔ Once in Greece, you must submit a full application for the residence permit within the first 90 days and schedule biometrics at the Decentralized Administration (Αποκεντρωμένη Διοίκηση).

Tip: Apply at least 3 months in advance and make sure all documents are:

• Translated into Greek by a certified translator

• Apostilled or legalized (where required)

• Complete and in correct format (Greece is strict on admin precision)

For updated guidelines, visit: https://migration.gov.gr/en

The documents you need depend on your nationality, length of stay, and reason for relocation (work, study, family, etc.).

For EU/EEA/Swiss citizens:

✔ Valid passport or national ID card

✔ Proof of sufficient financial means (e.g. bank statements, pension, employment income)

✔ Proof of health insurance valid in Greece (EHIC or private insurance)

✔ Proof of accommodation (rental contract, property deed, or hotel booking)

✔ AFM tax number – must be obtained after arrival at a local tax office

✔ Registration certificate (βεβαίωση εγγραφής) – must register within 90 days at the nearest police aliens department

For Non-EU citizens, common requirements include:

✔ Valid passport – Must be valid for at least 3–6 months beyond your stay

✔ National D visa – Apply at the Greek consulate/embassy in your home country

✔ Valid passport – Must be valid for at least 3–6 months beyond your stay

✔ Residence permit application – Once in Greece, apply within 90 days

✔ Proof of purpose of stay (e.g. work contract, university admission letter, family connection)

✔ Proof of sufficient financial means – Bank statements, sponsor letter, income tax returns

✔ Proof of health insurance – Private or public coverage valid in Greece

✔ Clean criminal record certificate – Often required, issued within the past 3–6 months

✔ Proof of accommodation – Rental contract (registered with Greek tax authority), property ownership, or hosting affidavit (υπεύθυνη δήλωση φιλοξενίας)

✔ Medical certificate – Confirming you are free from communicable diseases (issued by a Greek doctor after arrival)

Translations & Legalization

✔ Documents must be officially translated into Greek by:

• The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or

• A certified lawyer or translator registered in Greece

• Non-EU documents often require apostille or consular legalization

Tip: Keep both originals and translated copies ready. Missing or wrongly formatted documents can delay your application.

International moving costs to Greece depend on several key factors:

What affects the cost?

✔ Volume & weight of items – The more space your belongings occupy (in cubic meters), the higher the price

✔ Transport method – Choose between:

• Dedicated vans/trucks for full household relocations

• Groupage (shared load) – More affordable if you’re moving fewer items

• Express delivery – Ideal for urgent, door-to-door moves

• Distance – Costs vary based on your country of origin within Europe

• Additional services – Optional extras such as:

• Professional packing & unpacking

• Disassembly & reassembly of furniture

• Customs clearance (especially for non-EU residents)

• Full insurance coverage

• Temporary storage

Estimated moving costs (Europe → Greece):

• Full household move (15–30 m³): €2,500 – €6,000

• Partial load (1–5 m³): From €500

• Express van delivery (direct transport, no groupage): From €1,200+

✔ Transparent pricing – All quotes include:

✔ Fuel surcharges

✔ Road tolls

✔ Border handling (no hidden fees)

Tip: Request a free quote tailored to your inventory and preferred delivery timeline.

We also provide short-term storage, packing materials, and non-EU customs assistance.

Yes – but importing a vehicle to Greece comes with strict regulations, especially for non-EU citizens or those relocating permanently.

Key import & registration rules:

✔ VAT & Customs Duties

• If you’re relocating permanently and your car is considered part of your household goods (owned and used for at least 6 months prior to import), you may qualify for customs and VAT exemption.

• Otherwise, expect to pay 24% VAT on the car’s taxable value upon entry.

✔ Registration Deadline

• You must register your car within 1 month of bringing it into Greece (if you’re establishing residence).

• Registration is handled by the Ministry of Transport (Διεύθυνση Μεταφορών) in your local region.

✔ Special Vehicle Tax (TELO KYKLOFORIAS)

• Greece imposes registration taxes based on:

▸ CO₂ emissions

▸ Engine displacement (cc)

▸ Fuel type (diesel vehicles are often taxed more heavily)

• Older diesel or high-emission vehicles can incur very high fees.

✔ Electric Vehicles (EVs)

• EVs benefit from major tax advantages:

▸ No registration tax

▸ Exempt from annual circulation tax (for most models)

▸ Eligible for subsidies up to €6,000 under Greece’s “Kinoumai Ilektrika” program.

Required documents for car import:

• Proof of ownership (registration certificate)

• Purchase invoice or value declaration

• Residence certificate in Greece

• Customs clearance documents (Δελτίο Τελωνειακής Εισαγωγής)

• Certificate of conformity (if available)

• Greek translation of vehicle documents (by certified translator)

Tip:

Many expats choose to sell or leave their car before relocating due to:

• Greece’s complex bureaucracy,

• High import duties, and

• Strict technical inspection requirements (KTEO).

Alternative: Consider buying a used car in Greece post-relocation – it’s often cheaper and avoids the hassle of registration.

Yes – absolutely! We offer partial-load removals (groupage transport) to Greece for those who don't need a full truck.

What is a partial-load move?

✔ You only pay for the space your items occupy in the moving vehicle (charged per m³).

✔ Ideal for:

• Students

• Digital nomads

• Expats with limited items

• Short-term relocations

• Shipping boxes, personal belongings, or single pieces of furniture

Flexible delivery windows

Because items are grouped with other shipments, delivery can take slightly longer than full-load transport – but you'll save significantly on cost.

Tip: Contact us to check availability for the next groupage departure to Greece.

Yes – health insurance is mandatory for all residents in Greece, whether you're an EU citizen or a third-country national.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

• Can temporarily use the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) for emergency medical treatment during short stays.

• If staying longer than 90 days, you must register with the Greek public health insurance system (EFKA) and apply for an AMKA (social security number).

• Health contributions may apply depending on your employment or residence status.

Non-EU citizens

• Must present private health insurance coverage when applying for a residence permit.

• Once employed or enrolled as a student in Greece, you are automatically registered with EFKA, the national health insurance system, and will receive an AMKA number.

Employees & Students

• Are automatically insured through their employer or university

• Insurance contributions are deducted directly from salaries or included in tuition/employment packages.

• Coverage includes:

• Doctor visits

• Hospitalization

• Prescriptions

• Emergency care

Optional: Private Top-Up Insurance

Many residents choose supplementary private insurance to:

✔ Skip long waiting times

✔ Access private clinics and specialists

✔ Get better dental/vision coverage

✔ Stay in private hospital rooms

Tip: When moving to Greece long-term, apply for your AMKA number as soon as possible after registering your address. This is needed for accessing any public healthcare service.

Yes – you can open a bank account in Greece as a non-resident, but the process and documentation vary depending on your nationality and bank.

EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

You can usually open a Greek bank account with just your passport or national ID and proof of address (in Greece or abroad).

However, for a fully functional account, most banks will ask for:

✔ Proof of Greek address (e.g. rental agreement, utility bill)

✔ Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM) – required even for foreigners

✔ Mobile number (Greek SIM is preferred)

✔ Reason for opening the account (e.g. work, residence, studies)

Non-EU Citizens

You must typically hold a valid residence permit and obtain a Greek AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου) from the local tax office (DOY) before applying for a bank account.

Popular Greek Banks

Some of the most common traditional banks are:

• National Bank of Greece (NBG / Ethniki Trapeza)

• Eurobank

• Alpha Bank

• Piraeus Bank

These banks usually require an in-person visit and documents translated into Greek (if necessary).

Online Banks

Digital banks like Revolut, Wise, N26 may offer limited functionality for Greek residents or expats, but you’ll still need a Greek AFM for many official payments (e.g. rent, taxes).

Tip: Even if you’re not yet living in Greece, you can start the AFM application through a tax representative. Once you receive your AFM, most banks will let you finalize the account setup in person after arrival.

Moving to Greece is exciting, but many expats experience cultural surprises during their transition. Here are the most common culture shocks:

✔ Relaxed pace of life – Greeks generally value quality of life and social connection over strict schedules. Expect more flexible timelines and slower service compared to Northern Europe.

✔ Bureaucracy can be frustrating – Many processes (e.g. residence permits, tax ID, banking) involve in-person appointments, paperwork in Greek, and long waits. Patience is a must!

✔ Language barrier – While younger Greeks and those in cities speak English well, many official documents, websites, and public sector employees operate only in Greek. Translators or local assistance help a lot.

✔ Driving culture – Traffic rules are often “optional.” Expect aggressive driving, limited signaling, and lots of scooters weaving between cars, especially in cities like Athens or Thessaloniki.

✔ Strikes & protests – Public transport, services, and even airports can occasionally be affected by nationwide strikes. Always check in advance.

✔ Late-night lifestyle – Greeks eat dinner late (often after 9 PM) and social gatherings go well past midnight—even on weekdays.

✔ Smoking indoors – Although officially banned, indoor smoking is still common in some bars and cafes, particularly outside tourist zones.

✔ Family & community focus – Family ties are strong, and it's common for multiple generations to live close or together. Expect lots of questions about your personal life!

Tip: Learn a few Greek phrases (even basic ones like “Kalimera” or “Efharistó”) and show appreciation for local customs—this will help you earn respect and feel more connected. Joining a local expat group or hobby club can also help you integrate faster.

Yes – many official documents must be translated into Greek before they can be accepted by Greek authorities. This applies especially for non-EU citizens applying for residence, work, or study permits.

Common documents that require official translation:

• Birth certificate

• Marriage certificate (if applicable)

• Academic diplomas and transcripts

• Criminal record certificate (police clearance)

• Employment contract (if issued abroad)

• Proof of health insurance

Rental agreement or housing confirmation

Translation requirements in Greece:

✔ Translations must be done by:

• The Translation Service of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or

• A certified lawyer in Greece, or

• A sworn translator officially recognized in your home country (with legalization/apostille)

✔ In many cases, documents must also be:

• Apostilled (if from a country under the Hague Convention), or

• Legalized via consular authentication (if not part of the Hague Convention)

✔ You will often need to submit both the original document and the certified translation.

Tip: To avoid delays, get your documents translated before arriving in Greece, especially if you’re applying for a visa or residence permit. Contact the Greek consulate in your country for specific translation requirements based on your case.

Finding housing in Greece can be challenging in high-demand cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion, and Patras — especially during university semesters or tourist season.

What landlords usually require in Greece:

✔ Valid passport or residence permit (especially for non-EU citizens)

✔ Proof of income – recent payslips, employment contract, or bank statements

✔ Security deposit – typically 1 to 2 months’ rent

✔ Greek tax number (AFM) – required for signing a rental contract

✔ Greek bank account – often preferred for rent transfers

✔ Proof of address registration (Δήλωση κατοικίας) – may be requested after move-in

Top rental platforms in Greece:

• Spitogatos.gr – Largest platform for apartments, homes & commercial spaces

• XE.gr – Listings for short & long-term rentals

• Tospitimou.gr – Great for locals and expats

• Facebook groups** – Look for groups like "Apartments in Athens for Expats" or "Living in Thessaloniki"

Tips for renting successfully in Greece:

✔ Be ready to act fast – Good properties in major cities are rented out quickly

✔ If you're self-employed or newly arrived, offer: • Prepaid rent (3–6 months)

✔ A local guarantor (with Greek ID & AFM)

✔ Always inspect the apartment in person if possible to avoid scams

✔ Check if utilities (ρεύμα – electricity, νερό – water, κοινόχρηστα – maintenance) are included

Tip: You must register your address with the Greek tax office (AADE) once you sign a lease. This is required for your residence permit, utilities, and even opening a bank account.

Yes — but your right to work remotely in Greece depends on your residence status and visa type.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

✔ You can live and work remotely in Greece without needing a visa or work permit

✔ You may work as an employee, freelancer, or business owner — for Greek or international clients

✔ However, within 90 days of arrival, you must:

• Register your address at the local Citizen Service Center (KEP)

• Get a Greek tax number (AFM)

• Show proof of sufficient income and valid health insurance

Non-EU citizens

Remote work is only allowed if your residence permit allows employment or self-employment. Valid options include:

✔ Digital Nomad Visa (since 2021!)

• Available for remote workers earning at least €3,500/month

• Must work for non-Greek companies or clients

• Issued for up to 12 months, renewable for another 12 months

✔ Self-employed residence permit

• Requires a business plan, income proof, and registration with the tax office

✔ Work visa (if employed by a Greek company)

• Must be sponsored by an employer before arrival

Tourist (Schengen) visa holders

Not allowed to work remotely while in Greece — even for foreign clients doing so is considered illegal work and may lead to fines, deportation, or visa bans

Tip:

Greece officially offers a Digital Nomad Visa — unlike many EU countries.

You’ll need:

• Valid passport

• Remote job or freelance contracts

• Proof of at least €3,500 net monthly income

• Health insurance & clean criminal record

• Rental agreement or proof of accommodation

Apply through the Greek consulate in your home country or at the Aliens and Immigration Office in Greece.

Greece has a universal public healthcare system (ESY – Εθνικό Σύστημα Υγείας) that offers high-quality and low-cost care to all residents. Health insurance is mandatory for everyone living in the country, regardless of nationality.

Coverage & Enrollment

✔ EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

• Can use the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) for short-term or emergency care

• If staying longer than 90 days, must register for Greek public healthcare

• This requires obtaining an AMKA number (Greek social security number) and AFM (tax number)

✔ Non-EU citizens

• Must show proof of private health insurance when applying for a residence permit

• After employment or university enrollment, they are automatically covered under the public system

• Will be assigned an AMKA for access to healthcare services

✔ Employees & Students

• Are insured through their employer or institution

• Receive access to public hospitals, clinics, and doctors (PEDY network)

• Pay minimal or no fees for general treatment

Optional: Private Health Insurance

Many residents choose supplementary private insurance to access:

• Private hospitals or faster service

• Private doctors or specialists without waiting

• Dental, optical, and maternity care

• Private rooms during hospitalization

Typical Healthcare Costs in Greece

• Doctor visits: Often free in public clinics, or €10–€50 with private doctors

• Specialist visits: Covered, but longer wait times in public system

• Hospitalization: Covered in public hospitals; private care costs vary

• Emergency care: Always free in life-threatening situations

• Pharmacy co-pays: 0–25% depending on medication and insurance coverage

Key Things to Know

✔ You must register with the Greek social security system (EFKA) to get your AMKA

✔ Your AMKA gives you access to doctors, hospitals, prescriptions, and more

✔ Without valid insurance, you will pay full price for care (even at public hospitals)

Tip:

For faster access and broader coverage, consider getting a private top-up insurance plan.

Especially useful for:

• Dental and optical treatments

• Shorter wait times

• Access to English-speaking private doctors

Yes – absolutely.

If you plan to work in Greece, either as an employee or self-employed, you must obtain a Greek Social Security Number, known as AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης).

Why you need an AMKA:

Your AMKA is essential for:

✔ Receiving your salary – It’s linked to your tax ID (AFM) and payroll

✔ Paying social insurance contributions (IKA/EFKA)

✔ Registering with public healthcare (ESY)

✔ Accessing benefits, including:

• Sick leave

• Maternity or parental leave

• Unemployment benefits

• Pension rights and accumulation

✔ Getting prescriptions and using public hospitals

How to get your AMKA:

You can apply in person at a KEP office (Citizen Service Center).

You’ll need:

• Valid passport or national ID

• AFM (Tax ID number) – obtained from the local tax office

• Residence permit (for non-EU citizens)

• Proof of address (e.g. rental contract)

• Sometimes: employer declaration or job contract

Once registered, your AMKA is issued immediately and is valid for life

Tip:

Always keep your AMKA number safe – you’ll need it for work, healthcare, taxes, even enrolling kids in school.

In Greece, the social security number is called AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης).

It’s a mandatory personal identification number for anyone working, studying, or living long-term in Greece.

Who needs an AMKA?

✔ EU/EEA/Swiss citizens – Must apply for AMKA if they intend to work, study, or access public healthcare in Greece.

✔ Non-EU citizens – Must apply for AMKA after receiving a residence permit. It's usually required for employment, social insurance, or university enrollment.

✔ Freelancers/self-employed – Must obtain an AMKA before registering with EFKA (Unified Social Security Fund) and starting any business activity.

How to apply for AMKA:

Go in person to your local KEP office (Citizen Service Centre).

You will need:

• Valid passport or national ID

• AFM (Tax Number) – you must apply for this first at the tax office

• Residence permit (if you're non-EU)

• Proof of address (e.g. lease agreement, utility bill)

• Possibly your employment contract or self-employment registration

Once submitted, your AMKA is issued on the spot and remains valid for life.

Tip:

Your AMKA is required for:

• Getting public health insurance (EFKA or EOPYY)

• Receiving a salary and paying social contributions

• Accessing benefits like unemployment, maternity leave, and pensions

• Getting prescriptions and using public healthcare

Always store it safely – it’s one of the most important numbers you’ll use in Greece.

Yes – you can bring your pets to Greece, but you must follow EU pet import regulations. Rules vary slightly depending on whether you're arriving from an EU or non-EU country, and on the type of animal.

General requirements for dogs, cats, and ferrets:

✔ Microchip – ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip (must be implanted before rabies vaccine)

✔ Pet passport (EU/EEA citizens) or

✔ Veterinary certificate (for pets from non-EU countries)

✔ Max 5 pets per person – Only for non-commercial movement

Additional rules if arriving from a non-EU country:

✔ Rabies antibody titer test – Required at least 30 days after vaccination and 3 months before entry

✔ Pets must enter Greece via an official Border Inspection Post (BIP)

✔ Must notify Greek Customs & Veterinary Services in advance

Transport rules:

• Pets must travel with or shortly after the owner

• Use authorized airlines or pet relocation services

• Check airline policies for in-cabin vs. cargo transport

Tip:

Check the official website of the Hellenic Ministry of Rural Development & Food and the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) for up-to-date documentation requirements and approved entry points.

Useful links:

• https://www.aade.gr

• https://www.minagric.gr

Yes – whether you're arriving ahead of your shipment, waiting to secure housing, or planning a phased relocation, short-term and long-term storage in Greece is available and highly practical.

Storage is ideal for:

✔ Delayed access to permanent housing (e.g. still apartment hunting)

✔ Split relocations – when your belongings arrive before or after you

✔ Temporary stays – study abroad, internships, or short-term contracts

✔ Renovations or subletting – keeping belongings safe during transitions

Features of our secure storage facilities in Greece:

✔ Video-monitored & alarm-secured units

✔ Climate-controlled storage for sensitive items

✔ Flexible access – scheduled visits with prior notice

➕ Extra benefits we offer:

✔ Combined moving + storage packages – save on logistics costs

✔ Inventory tracking – every box labeled and documented

✔ Insurance options – coverage available for high-value goods

Tip:

Planning an international move to Greece? We can collect, store, and redeliver your items when you're ready. Ask about our door-to-door transport + storage bundles for a fully coordinated experience.

(Post-arrival checklist for expats and newcomers)

After landing in Greece, there are several important legal and administrative steps you must take to complete your relocation and ensure legal residency — especially if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen.

Your Greece Arrival Checklist:

✔️ 1. Register your address (Δήλωση Κατοικίας)

You must register your residence within 7 days of finding accommodation at the local Citizens’ Service Centre (KEP) or Municipality Office.

You’ll receive a Certificate of Residence (Βεβαίωση Κατοικίας) which is essential for tax, banking, and healthcare.

✔️ 2. Undergo a medical check (for non-EU citizens only)

If your visa type requires it, you’ll need to complete a general health check at a public hospital or approved private clinic before being issued a residence permit card.

✔️ 3. Apply for your residence card (Άδεια Διαμονής)

If not already issued, apply for your biometric residence permit at the local Aliens and Immigration Office (part of the Decentralized Administration).

This should be done within 90 days of your arrival.

✔️ 4. Register for Social Security (AMKA) and Public Healthcare (EFKA/EOPYY)

• If employed: your employer will register you automatically.

• If self-employed or unemployed: apply for your AMKA number at KEP and register with EFKA or OAEE (depending on status).

• This also grants you access to Greece’s public healthcare system (EOPYY).

✔️ 5. Open a local bank account

You’ll need a Greek IBAN for:

• Salary deposits

• Rent and utility payments

• Tax registration (AFM – Greek Tax ID)

Required documents typically include:

✔ Passport/residence card

✔ Tax number (AFM)

✔ Proof of address

✔ Employment/student letter

✔️ 6. Get a local Greek SIM card

A Greek mobile number is essential for:

• Online banking

• Government SMS notifications

• Apartment or job applications

• You can purchase a prepaid SIM with your passport at any mobile provider store (e.g. Cosmote, Vodafone, Wind).

Tip:

Book appointments in advance for residence permit applications and address registration — wait times can be long, especially in cities like Athens or Thessaloniki.

Yes – Greece allows family reunification if you hold a valid residence permit or long-term visa.

Who can join you under family reunification in Greece?

• Your spouse or registered partner

• Minor children (under 18)

• In some cases: dependent parents or adult children, depending on financial and health conditions

Requirements for family reunification:

✔️ You must hold a valid residence permit in Greece (e.g. work, study, or permanent stay)

✔️ You must prove financial means to support your family without relying on Greek state assistance

✔️ You need suitable accommodation (rental contract or property ownership)

✔️ You must provide valid health insurance for all family members

Required documents usually include:

• Marriage certificate (translated and apostilled/legalized)

• Birth certificates for children

• Valid passports of all family members

• Proof of your income and housing in Greece

• Health insurance contracts

• Greek Tax ID (AFM) for each applicant

Application process:

• Family members must apply for a national D visa at the Greek consulate in their country of origin before arrival

• Once in Greece, apply for the Family Reunification Residence Permit (Άδεια Διαμονής για Οικογενειακή Επανένωση)

Processing time:

Approximately 2–4 months, depending on the region and volume of applications. Incomplete or incorrectly translated documents can delay the process.

Tip:

Start the process early and ensure all documents are officially translated into Greek and apostilled if needed. Some municipalities require pre-approval of lease contracts and verification of income.

Yes – All children living in Greece, regardless of their nationality, have the right and legal obligation to attend school.

Compulsory education in Greece:

• Kindergarten (Nipiagogeio): Optional, but strongly encouraged from age 4+

• Primary school (Dimotiko): Ages 6 to 12

• Lower secondary (Gymnasio): Ages 12 to 15 – mandatory

• Upper secondary (Lykeio): Optional but common, for ages 15 to 18

Public education system in Greece:

• Free of charge, including books and core school materials

• The main language of instruction is Greek

• Special “reception classes” (taksi ypodochis) are available for non-Greek-speaking children to support language integration

• School curriculum is standardized nationwide and overseen by the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs

Private & international schools:

Greece also has a wide selection of private and international schools, especially in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete, including:

• English-speaking schools (e.g. St. Catherine’s British School, ACS Athens)

• French, German, and bilingual institutions

• European Schools (e.g. in Heraklion for EU staff)

• Faith-based, Montessori, and Waldorf schools

These schools typically:

• Charge tuition fees

• Require early application

• May conduct entrance exams or interviews

• Have limited spaces and waiting lists (apply 6–12 months in advance)

Enrollment tips:

✔️ For public schools – Apply at your local municipal education office (Διεύθυνση Εκπαίδευσης) based on your residence address

✔️ Bring:

• Valid passport & residence permit

• Translated school records

• Vaccination certificate or proof of immunizations

✔️ For international schools – Contact the school directly for deadlines, curriculum, and fees

Tip:

Enrolling early and learning some basic Greek helps ease your child’s transition. Greece is welcoming to international families, and schools often have experience integrating foreign students.