Citizenship in Greece grants access to all EU member nations. Within the borders of the EU, passport holders are free to travel, live, and work wherever they choose. Many non-Greeks are unsure of how to obtain a Greek passport. The documentation requirements, costs, and other elements of Greek naturalization will all be covered in this article.
Why become a Greek citizen
Greece is renowned across the world as the birthplace of European civilization. The nation is known for its delectable cuisine, pleasant Mediterranean climate, and breathtaking vistas. Numerous locations are included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. While some Greeks choose to live inland, others prefer to stay on the islands and take advantage of the water. For people who no longer desire to reside in northern countries, Greece is a fantastic option for Spain.
By giving naturalization, the Greek government acknowledges the popularity of the nation. However, the State is also very protective and does not grant anyone the right to citizenship. Greece only issues passports to current citizens. It is quite improbable that you will never obtain a passport unless you can demonstrate that you are of Greek ancestry. Like other European nations, Greece does not support a citizenship-by-investment program. Instead, a unique Golden Visa program is managed by the government. In return for purchasing shares in the nation’s real estate, it gives a resident permit.
Greek passport requirements
A person can apply for a Greek passport under the following four situations:
- if they are descended from Greeks
- if they have a history of studying in or getting married in Greece
- if they are self-sufficient financially
- if they are Golden Visa program participants
An applicant won’t have to stay in the country for any length of time except in the first scenario. They can join the ranks of other Greek nationals if they can demonstrate their Greek ancestry. The remaining three groups will all have their members naturalized. As a result, they both acquired Greek citizenship and keep their original nationality.
Fees and documents
The following criteria must be met for someone to be eligible for a Greek passport and citizenship:
- be older than 18
- with a spotless criminal history
- weren’t expelled from Greece
- have been citizens for seven years
The applicant may have to wait less in some situations. The waiting period typically lasts three years in the following circumstances:
- the applicant must have lived in Greece for three years and is married to a Greek
- a candidate has a little child who is traveling on a Greek passport
- If the petitioner is a refugee or has had his citizenship revoked by his nation
- The applicant is a citizen of an EU nation by birth
Visa-Free countries for Greek passport holders
In terms of travel flexibility in 2018, the analytical company Henley & Partners rated the Greek passport sixth. Any nation that is a member of the European Union can access it with ease. Greek passport holders can travel to 174 nations worldwide.
The applicant for a Greek passport is prohibited from moving abroad for employment or from utilizing social benefits in another member state of the EU while he waits for the official decision. He can, however, take pleasure in traveling within the Schengen area. He can open an account at a European bank and has complete access to medical care. If the application is approved and the person is naturalized, he may make use of the social benefit programs offered by the EU. He/she is eligible to live and work in any nation in Europe. Most importantly, he/she can pass citizenship down to his children and grandchildren through inheritance.
The cost of the Greek passport
You must obtain a passport if your application is accepted. It costs money to obtain a physical passport from Greece. The following fees must be paid by the applicant:
- If the applicant is older than 14, the fee is €84.40.
- If the applicant is under the age of 14, the fee is €73.60
Keep in mind that only cash in US dollars should be used to pay all costs. Your payment for the cost is refundable if your passport application is denied. It subtracts five euros ($5) from the total fee amount.
