To study in Greece, you'll need a National Type D student visa. After you have arrived in Greece, you'll also need to apply for your residence permit within 90 days. Student residence permits are now generally issued for the full duration of your studies at €150 rather than requiring annual renewal and progress confirmation every two years.
After your residence permit has been issued, you can work up to 20 hours a week during your academic term and full time during university holidays, making it easier for you to earn money, cover your living expenses and gain work experience at the same time.
After completing your degree, as an international graduate, you can now apply for a job-seeking or an entrepreneurship permit under Article 119 of Law 5038/2023. This permit allows you to stay up to 1 year in Greece to look for a job or start a business, and if you find a job that meets the qualifications, you can switch to a work permit and start building your career in Greece.
National (Type D) Student Visa:
- Duration: Valid for your degree programme but must be renewed yearly through your residence permit.
- Work Rights: You’re allowed to work 20 hours per week during your term time, and full-time during university holidays.
- Eligibility: You’ll need to provide an official acceptance letter from a recognised institution. Also, legally you’ll need to demonstrate a minimum monthly income of €400 (€4,800 per year). However, most consulates expect to see closer to €7,200 per year to cover basic living expenses without relying on public assistance. Additionally, you’ll need comprehensive travel and health insurance, along with standard application documents such as a valid passport, a medical certificate, and the required visa fee.
Job-Seeking/ Entrepreneurship Permit:
- Duration: Valid for up to 1 year after graduation
- Work Rights: You’re allowed to stay in Greece to look for work or start a business. As an international graduate, you can also apply for dependent or skilled jobs without first needing to show that there is a shortage of local workers.
- Eligibility: You’ll need to complete a degree, research programme, or college programme at a recognised Greek higher institution.
- 20 hrs
- Work per week in term
- 1 yr
- Job-search stay after graduation
- €7,200
- Proof of funds per year