If you work on foreign ships and earn income abroad, the best option is to obtain a Greek residence permit for financially independent individuals.
✅ What are the benefits?
- The right to live in Greece without being tied to a local job
- Freedom to enter and exit between flights
- Access to health insurance and services
- Potential to obtain EU permanent residency after 5 years, and citizenship after 7 years
📋 What you need for the application:
- Passport
- Proof of income from abroad (usually from €2,000 per month + family surcharge)
- Bank statements or seafarer’s contracts
- Health insurance for the entire stay
- Proof of housing in Greece (rental or property)
- Photo and certificate of no criminal record
⏲ Duration:
- The initial permit is issued for 2 years
- Renewal every 3 years
- After 5 years, you can apply for long-term status
💡 Prepare your financial documents in advance – the more transparent your source of income, the higher your chances of approval.
For sailors, this is a real way to live in Greece legally and without unnecessary bureaucracy, while maintaining their income and freedom of movement.
Seamen’s Club 🇺🇦 | #news