Moving to Greece from the USA: Everything you need to know

Moving from the US to Greece means swapping rush-hour traffic for an Aegean sunset. With year-round sunshine, deep cultural roots, and a slower pace of life, it’s no wonder more Americans are making the move.

Before you pack up, it helps to understand the essentials. From securing the right visa to budgeting for everyday costs, the details you handle now will make your transition smoother later.

We'll also introduce Wise — your international money transfer alternative. Use Wise to send stress-free transfers to over 140 countries - all at the standard mid-market exchange rate.

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Table of contents
Quick facts about Greece Visa options for Americans in Greece Cost of living in Greece Opening a bank account in Greece Getting accommodation in Greece Healthcare system in Greece Best cities to live in Greece as an expat Is it safe to live in Greece?

Quick facts about Greece

Before you start planning your move, it helps to know the basics.

We’ll go over the official currency, the size of the population, and more—all important details to give you a quick snapshot of what to expect day-to-day.

Capital	Athens
Population	9.9 million¹
Currency	Euro (EUR)
Languages	Greek (English is widely spoken in tourist and expat areas)
Time zone	Eastern European Time (EET/EEST)
Government	Parliamentary republic
Healthcare	Universal public system with private options available
US tax treaty	Yes

With more than 200 inhabited islands, a warm Mediterranean climate, and a deep cultural heritage, Greece offers an appealing mix of lifestyle and opportunities for long-term residents.

Visa options for Americans in Greece

Americans can visit Greece without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period under the Schengen Agreement.² If you want to stay longer, you’ll need a long-stay visa (Type D) that matches your purpose for being in the country.

These visas must be applied for in advance through a Greek consulate in the United States. Processing times vary, and you’ll need to gather documents that prove your eligibility for the visa type you choose.

Employment visa

If you have a confirmed job offer from a Greek employer authorized to hire non-EU nationals, you can apply for an employment visa.

This requires a signed contract, proof of your qualifications, accommodation details, and valid travel health insurance. Your employer will usually be involved in the application process by providing the necessary approvals and paperwork.

Once you arrive in Greece, you must apply for a residence permit for employment within 30 days at your local Aliens and Immigration Department. Employment visas are typically valid for one year and can be renewed if your employment continues.

Student visa

A student visa is available if you’ve been accepted into a recognized Greek university, college, or training program. You’ll need an official acceptance letter, proof that you can fund your living expenses, and health insurance for the duration of your studies.

The visa is usually valid for the academic year and can be extended if your program continues. In some cases, you may be permitted to work part-time, but the primary purpose of your stay must be study.

Family reunification visa

If you’re the spouse, minor child, or dependent parent of a legal Greek resident, you may qualify for a family reunification visa. The resident sponsoring you must show they can provide financial support, housing, and health coverage for you.

You’ll need documents like marriage or birth certificates and proof of relationship to complete your application. Processing times can vary depending on the case.

Digital Nomad visa

This visa is aimed at remote workers employed or contracted outside Greece. You must prove that your job can be done remotely and that you earn at least €3,500 per month, plus extra for dependents.

The initial visa is valid for 12 months and can be renewed once for up to 2 years if you continue to meet the requirements.

Financially Independent Person (FIP) visa

The FIP visa is an option for those who can support themselves without working in Greece. You must show a passive income of at least €3,500 per month, plus 20% for a spouse and 15% per child, and proof of at least €72,000 in savings.

The visa is valid for 2 years and renewable, but it does not allow employment in Greece. Qualifying income can come from pensions, investments, or rental properties.

Golden visa

The Greece Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants a 5-year renewable residence permit in exchange for qualifying investments.

The most common route is real estate, starting from €250,000 for certain restoration projects, up to €800,000 for properties in prime areas like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini.

Holders can live and study in Greece, travel visa-free in the Schengen Area, and include family members in their application. While it does not allow employment, it can lead to citizenship after 7 years of residency.³

Cost of living in Greece

Greece offers a quality of life that many expats find both affordable and enjoyable.

While Athens and popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos come with a premium, everyday living in many parts of the country remains significantly cheaper than in most Western European capitals.

Here’s a look at the cost of living in Greece for a few common expenses:

Expense	Approximate Cost⁴
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant	€15 (~18 USD)
Three-course meal for two (mid-range)	€50 (~59 USD)
Apartment (1 bed) in the city center	€461 (~540 USD)
Apartment (3 bed) in the city center	€798 (~934 USD)
Basic (electricity, heating, etc.)	€189 (~221 USD)
Monthly phone plan	€22 (~26 USD)
Internet	€29 (~34 USD)

On average, a single person’s monthly expenses, excluding rent, sit around €795 (~930 USD). This makes Greece more affordable than many Western European destinations, especially if you choose to live outside major tourist hubs.

Groceries from local markets are often cheaper than those from supermarkets, particularly for fresh produce, seafood, and locally made goods. Dining out can be cost-effective if you opt for small tavernas instead of upscale restaurants.

Public transport is also inexpensive and widely available in urban areas, though many expats prefer the flexibility of having a car for exploring rural regions.

Opening a bank account in Greece

Opening a local bank account in Greece is often necessary if you plan to live or work there long-term. It makes receiving payments, paying bills, and managing everyday expenses much simpler.

Most banks will require:

• Proof of identity: Typically, your passport
• Greek tax number (AFM): Needed for most financial transactions
• Proof of address: Such as a rental agreement or utility bill
• Proof of income or employment: Sometimes required, especially for non-residents

You can usually open an account as a non-resident, but the process tends to be easier if you apply in person. Some banks allow you to start the application online, though you’ll likely still need to visit a branch for final verification.

Popular banking options include National Bank of Greece, Alpha Bank, Eurobank, and Piraeus Bank. If you’ll be moving money between the US and Greece, you may also want to consider an international or multi-currency account to reduce conversion fees.

Tax implications for Americans in Greece

If you’re a US citizen living in Greece, you’ll need to consider both Greek and American tax obligations. The United States taxes its citizens on worldwide income, so you’ll still have to file a US tax return each year, even if you’re paying taxes in Greece.

Greece taxes residents on their global income, while non-residents are only taxed on Greek-sourced income. If you stay in the country for more than 183 days in a tax year, you’re generally considered a tax resident.⁵

To avoid double taxation, the US and Greece have a tax treaty, and you may be able to use the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) or claim a Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) to offset US taxes.⁶

If your Greek bank account balances exceed certain thresholds, you should also be aware of FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) reporting requirements.

Getting accommodation in Greece

Housing in Greece can range from modern city apartments in Athens to seaside homes on the islands.

Urban areas, especially Athens and Thessaloniki, have higher demand and faster-moving rental markets, so it’s worth starting your search early and setting a clear budget.

Renting

Many expats choose a short-term rental first. This lets you explore different neighborhoods, arrange paperwork like your AFM (Greek tax number), and decide where you want to settle. In popular cities, good rentals can be taken within days, so it pays to be ready to apply quickly.

Some popular sites for finding rentals in Greece include:

• Spitogatos
• XE.gr
• Plot.gr

You’ll usually need to provide:

• Valid photo ID (passport)
• AFM tax number
• Proof of income or employment
• A security deposit of one or two months’ rent

Here’s a snapshot of average monthly rent in central locations:

City	1 bedroom	3 bedroom
Athens⁷	€569 (~666 USD)	€1,036 (~1,212 USD)
Thessaloniki⁸	€489 (~572 USD)	€829 (~970 USD)
Patras⁹	€421 (~493 USD)	€693 (~811 USD)

While Athens is the most expensive, cities like Thessaloniki and Patras can offer better value without sacrificing amenities. Smaller towns and rural areas are generally more affordable. However, you may need to factor in longer travel times for work or accessing services.

Always make sure you have a written rental agreement. It should clearly state the rent, deposit, payment schedule, and other terms to avoid misunderstandings later.

Healthcare system in Greece

Public healthcare in Greece is mostly free if you’re covered by the National Organization for Healthcare Services Provision (EOPYY). With EOPYY coverage, you can see registered doctors for free or at a reduced cost. Private clinics that have agreements with EOPYY will also partially cover the bill.

Hospital treatment in the public system is free when you have a referral from an EOPYY doctor or health centre.

Prescriptions aren’t fully covered, but most people pay about 25% of the cost, depending on the medicine. In certain cases, such as those involving chronic illnesses, prescriptions may be provided free of charge.

Here’s what you can expect to pay for common treatments:¹⁰

Treatment	Public healthcare	Private healthcare
Doctor’s visit	€0–10 (~0–12 USD)	€60–150 (~70–176 USD)
Hip replacement	Free	€4,000–12,000 (~4,681–14,043 USD)
Mammogram	€0–5 (~0–6 USD)	€65–100 (~76–117 USD)

Many expats choose private clinics for faster appointments and English-speaking staff. Online consultations are also available for around €20, which can be useful for minor issues.

Best cities to live in Greece as an expat

With lively capitals and laid-back coastal towns, Greece offers expats plenty of options.

Whether you want a fast-paced city living with endless amenities or a slower lifestyle by the sea, the right location can make settling in much easier.

Athens

Athens is the country’s capital and the most popular base for expats. It offers a blend of ancient history, bustling neighborhoods, and a growing number of coworking spaces. Public transport is extensive, with buses and a metro system, making it easy to get around without a car. While some areas can feel crowded, Athens gives you access to cultural events and a wide choice of restaurants and shops.

Thessaloniki

Located in northern Greece, Thessaloniki is known for its lively waterfront, vibrant café culture, and more relaxed pace compared to Athens. The cost of living is generally lower, and the city has a strong expat community thanks to its universities and international business presence. It’s also a hub for exploring the surrounding mountains and beaches.

Chania

If you prefer island living, Chania on Crete offers a balance of old-world charm and modern amenities. The Venetian harbor, Mediterranean climate, and easy access to beaches make it a favorite for digital nomads and retirees. While it’s smaller than Athens or Thessaloniki, you’ll still find reliable internet, good healthcare options, and a welcoming expat network.

Is it safe to live in Greece?

Greece is generally considered a safe place to live. Violent crime is rare, and most safety concerns for expats involve petty theft in busy tourist areas or on public transport.

Natural risks are worth noting. Wildfires can occur between April and October, particularly in rural or forested areas. The Greek government recommends signing up for emergency alerts and avoiding high-risk areas during dry spells.¹¹ Earthquakes are also possible, especially on some islands, though most are minor.

Safety tips to make life in Greece smoother:

• Keep valuables in a secure bag or front pocket in crowded areas
• Stay informed about wildfire and earthquake alerts
• Avoid protest areas and large public gatherings
• Keep emergency contacts and your embassy’s number handy

With basic precautions, most expats find Greece a safe and welcoming place to live.

Final thoughts

Now that we’ve covered what life looks like for Americans moving to Greece, you can start mapping out a plan that works for you.

No matter if you’re considering a city apartment, island home, or a quieter inland town, knowing the costs and rental process will make settling easier.

Take time to research neighborhoods, understand visa requirements, and visit potential areas before committing. A little prep today will help you adjust more quickly and enjoy your new life with fewer surprises.

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Sources

1. Worldometers - Greece Population
2. Schengen Visa Info - Understand the Visa Type You Need
3. Visa Guide - Types of Long-Stay Visas
4. Numbeo - Cost of living in Greece
5. Aade.gr - Tax residency criteria
6. CPAs for Expats - Guide to the US Greece Tax Treaty
7. Numbeo - Athens
8. Numbeo - Thessaloniki
9. Numbeo - Patras
10. Move hub - Is healthcare free in Greece?
11. Gov.uk - Emergency alerts and preparedness

Sources checked 09/12/2025