Do I have to stay in Greece?

No, the FIP residence permit has no minimum stay requirement.

What is the income requirement?

Roughly EUR 24,000 per year in passive income for the main applicant; additional income is required for family members.

What is Greece's tax advantage for retirees?

Foreign retirees who transfer their tax residence can benefit from a flat 7% tax rate on foreign income for up to 15 years.

No. The FIP residence permit does not permit gainful activity; it relies on passive income.

2026 Program Guide

Greece Retirement Visa

The Greece Financially Independent Person (FIP) residence permit offers residence to retirees and passive-income earners with roughly EUR 24,000 per year in passive income. With no minimum stay requirement and a Mediterranean lifestyle, it provides a secure EU base.

Last updated: 2026-07-07 · Reviewed by: Burak Ünal

At a glance

Program: FIP Residence Permit
Passive income: ~EUR 24,000/year
Stay requirement: None
Work: Not permitted
Long term: Permanent residence/citizenship through residency

Who is it for?

Retirees seeking EU residence without a minimum stay requirement.
Those with roughly EUR 24,000 per year in passive income.
Those seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle and reasonable income requirement.
Those seeking a secure EU base with their families.

FIP: No Stay Requirement

The Financially Independent Person (FIP) residence permit is granted with proof of roughly EUR 24,000 per year in passive income (additional income required for family members). Its most significant advantage is the absence of a minimum stay requirement, making Greece attractive for those seeking a flexible EU base. It does not permit work.

Tax Advantage for Retirees

Foreign retirees who transfer their tax residence to Greece can benefit from a flat 7% tax rate on foreign income for up to 15 years. There is also a path to permanent residence and citizenship after long-term legal residence. Tax planning should be assessed according to individual circumstances.

Building Your Application

Greece's Financially Independent Person permit appeals to retirees and passive-income earners who value flexibility. Its standout feature is the absence of a minimum stay requirement, so it suits those who want a secure European base while still spending time elsewhere. To qualify, you demonstrate roughly EUR 24,000 per year in passive income, with additional amounts for family members, and hold health insurance alongside a clean criminal record. After the permit is approved you settle in Greece at your own pace, and over the longer term consistent residency can open a path toward permanent residence and citizenship. Because there is no obligation to remain for a set period, you can shape your Greek life around family and travel while keeping the Mediterranean lifestyle within easy reach. When planning, weigh insurance and the local cost of living, which is generally moderate. Requirements and figures can change, so confirm the latest details with the relevant authorities or a qualified adviser before you apply.

Benefits

No minimum stay requirement.
Mediterranean lifestyle and Schengen access.
Reasonable income requirement.
Family members can be included.

Requirements

~EUR 24,000/year in passive income (plus additional amounts for family).
Health insurance.
Clean criminal record.

Costs

Proof of income: ~EUR 24,000/year
Fees: Additional fees apply

FAQ

Do I have to stay in Greece?: No, the FIP residence permit has no minimum stay requirement.
What is the income requirement?: Roughly EUR 24,000 per year in passive income for the main applicant; additional income is required for family members.
What is Greece's tax advantage for retirees?: Foreign retirees who transfer their tax residence can benefit from a flat 7% tax rate on foreign income for up to 15 years.
Can I work?: No. The FIP residence permit does not permit gainful activity; it relies on passive income.

Sources

Hellenic Republic Ministry of Foreign Affairs - National Visas (Type D)

Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.

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