Introduction and general information
Moving from Switzerland to Greece is a big adventure - and careful preparation is the key to success. This guide will accompany you step by step.
Welcome to Greece – your guide to a new beginning
This leaflet is a guide and assistance in organizing a move from Switzerland to Greece. It is based primarily on current Greek legislation and on the experiences of Swiss abroad who have already taken this step. It is made available without acknowledgment of any legal obligation.
Greek online platforms – multilingual and modern
The vast majority of Greek online platforms offer the option of switching from Greek to English. Many administrative matters can now easily be handled online without being physically present at an authority. If physical presence is necessary, a prior electronic or telephone appointment is usually necessary and often mandatory.
The digitalization of the Greek administration has made great progress in recent years. Platforms like gov.gr bring together many government services in one place and allow citizens to apply for documents, make appointments and submit forms - all online.
The be-all and end-all: good preparation
The most important thing when dealing with an official matter is good preparation, i.e. bringing the necessary documents such as passport and other things with a notarized translation into Greek. According to the Hague Convention, only the tax authority can additionally require an apostille - an international authentication certificate that confirms the authenticity of a public document.
As elsewhere, clerks' interpretation of legislation and regulations varies, meaning that in practice one document may be required more or less. Remain flexible and, if in doubt, always bring more documents than stated.
Important basic rules for dealing with authorities
- Enter all data in capital letters, absolutely identical to the passport and with Latin letters.
- Avoid typos – incorrect data in official registers can lead to considerable effort in correcting them.
- Get your Greek cell phone number early - many platforms require a Greek number for two-factor authentication.
- Request documents in English – many Swiss authorities issue certificates in English, which is usually accepted in Greece.
Swiss citizen in the EU
As a Swiss citizen, you enjoy largely the same rights as EU citizens thanks to bilateral agreements between Switzerland and the EU. You can stay in Greece for up to three months without registering. In the case of a longer stay or permanent residence, special rules apply, which are described in detail in the following chapters.
Important to know: People who do not transfer their tax residence to Greece (i.e. without deregistering in Switzerland) must leave the country after 183 days and are only allowed to re-enter after another 6 months.
"Emigration to Greece is not a sprint, but a marathon. If you are well prepared and know the bureaucratic hurdles, you can concentrate on what is important right from the start: life in one of the most beautiful countries in Europe."
Checklist: General preparation
- ☐ Check passport for validity (at least 1 year remaining term recommended)
- ☐ Have copies and originals of important documents ready
- ☐ Prepare certified translations of important documents into Greek
- ☐ Get a Greek prepaid SIM card before leaving the country
- ☐ Install Gov.gr Wallet app on your smartphone
- ☐ Consult a tax advisor with knowledge of Swiss and Greek tax law
- ☐ Clarify health insurance for Swiss citizens abroad
- ☐ Regulate bank power of attorney, will and living will