New conditions for obtaining Greek citizenship by expatriates from the former Soviet Union.

Pros and cons of immigration to Greece

However, not everything is so smooth in Greece today. It is gradually emerging from the crisis, its economic indicators are improving, and the standard of living of the population is rising. For those planning to move, it is important to know that not only the advantages, but also the disadvantages of emigration await them in their new place of residence.

Pros of moving

Immigration to the shores of Hellas attracts many advantages, including:

1. Healthy maritime climate.
2. Luxurious sandy beaches.
3. Cities with developed infrastructure.
4. Affordable price for real estate.
5. Free higher education.
6. Inexpensive catering.
7. Active nightlife.
8. Visa-free visit to the European Union.
9. Slow, calm, everyday rhythm.

Cons of moving

The advantages of emigration are obvious, but we should not forget about the disadvantages that those wishing to move to this hospitable state must put up with:

1. Significant unemployment, which now reaches 25%.
2. Frequent strikes, making movement around the territory difficult.
3. Bureaucracy.
4. A difficult crime situation due to the illegal migration of people from Africa and Asia.
5. High cost of living.

Permanent residence for financially independent foreigners

There are situations when it is possible to obtain a Greek residence permit if in Russia you have an income of €2,000 per month. In this case, you are considering moving your family to Greece, and the amount of income will increase. If you are married without children, the amount increases by 20%, and by 15% for each child if you have minor descendants. You will be issued a residence permit for two years, which will be renewed upon expiration.

In order to obtain a residence permit, you need to come to Greece once, and the entire granting procedure will take from 2 to 3 months.

Now we will highlight the main stages in obtaining a residence permit for financially independent citizens of the Russian Federation. The first stage includes collecting a package of documents and submitting them to the Consulate for issuance of type D. In addition to the international passport and photographs, it is now necessary to submit biometric data, namely fingerprints.

Next comes the procedure for obtaining a Greek tax number and opening a bank account for financial and other activities. The result of all the above points is the direct transfer of files to the Consulate to obtain a residence permit.

Ways to emigrate to Greece from Russia in 2021

The legislation provides for several options for legal emigration for permanent residence:

• Job;
• Education;
• Marriage and family connection;
• Doing Business;
• Investment;
• Buying a property;
• Residence permit for pensioners.

Employment

Labor emigration is a difficult way to move to the shores of Hellas. According to EU rules, citizens of the union or blue card holders are primarily eligible for vacancies. Otherwise, the employer has to prove to the authorities the need for cooperation with Russians. For the duration of the contract, a work permit is issued, which becomes the basis for legalization.

The emigration procedure provides for the provision of:

1. International passports.
2. Questionnaires.
3. Two color photos.
4. Original and scanned pages of the internal passport.
5. Labor contract.
6. Medical insurance with a coverage amount of at least 30 thousand euros.
7. Certificates of good conduct.
8. Agreements for the purchase or rental of housing.
9. Consent to the processing of personal data.

Those planning to emigrate will have to incur the following costs in euros:

• 180 – visa fee;
• 150 – state duty.

The waiting period for a visa ranges from 6 to 90 days. Approval of a residence permit takes 1 month and another 10 days are needed to produce a resident card.

Marriage and family reunion

The emigration program on family grounds is relevant for foreigners who have relatives legally residing in Greece, which include:

• Spouses;
• Young children;
• Parents;
• Brothers and sisters.

To submit an application you will need the following set of papers:

1. International passport.
2. Two color photographs.
3. A medical report from a Greek clinic confirming the absence of dangerous diseases.
4. Certificate of good conduct.
5. Proof of relationship: marriage certificate, birth certificate of children or establishment of guardianship.
6. An invitation from the Greek side with financial guarantees.

Foreign spouses receive a residence permit for three years at once. For other categories of relatives, residency status is approved for a year with subsequent extension.

Relatives must pay a flat fee of 150 euros. There is no D visa application fee.

The decision period is one month. Obtaining a D visa takes up to 10 working days.

student visa

Students can move for a long time. They are issued a D visa on the basis of a letter from a Greek university. It must contain information about the foreigner’s enrollment in the course and the duration of his studies.

In this case, a residence permit is approved for the entire educational period, but does not give the student the right to work. The following documents are required for legalization:

1. Invitation from the university.
2. Confirmation of financial solvency.
3. International passport.
4. International medical policy.
5. Questionnaire.
6. Certificate or diploma of completed education.
7. Information about place of residence.
8. Conclusion of the medical board on the student’s health.

The cost of legalization includes the following amounts in euros:

• 90 – fee for visa D;
• 150 – state duty.

The processing period for a D visa takes from 1 to 8 weeks. A month is allotted for residency approval.

Business immigration

Those who decide to move via business immigration must meet several conditions:

• Register a company. This procedure will require about 20 thousand euros if we are talking about a closed joint stock company and 60 thousand if a private enterprise is registered;
• Approve the business plan at the Ministry of Economy;
• Place working capital in a Greek bank;
• Create at least 10 job vacancies.

Methods and conditions for obtaining permanent residence

To obtain permanent residence (permanent residence), you will have to go through a long and troublesome procedure with first obtaining a Residence Permit. To obtain a residence permit, the applicant must have a legal basis with official confirmation.

Regardless of the method of relocation, there is a standard set of mandatory documents that are needed to obtain a residence permit. These include:

• international passport and copy;
• 3 color photographs;
• 2 copies of the application form for obtaining a residence permit;
• official confirmation of long-term rental housing or purchase;
• confirmation of the purpose of moving to Greece (family ties, employment contract, contract with an educational institution);
• confirmation of financial solvency - the presence in bank accounts of an amount equivalent to 24 thousand euros of annual income, with the exception of foreigners coming under an employment contract for the purpose of employment;
• medical certificate excluding the presence of diseases dangerous to society;
• receipt of payment of the state fee of 150 euros. There are several payment methods, both cash and bank transfer.

To legalize your status in Greece, you need to go through a number of stages, each of which takes a certain amount of time. At the first stage, you need to cross the border with a national visa. Then you can collect and submit documents for obtaining a residence permit. To do this, you must visit the Migration Service during the first few days of your stay in Greece. There, in addition to a package of documents, an interview awaits the applicant. The decision is made within 1-2 months, and status will need to be confirmed every 1-2 years. Permanent residence status can be assigned after 5 years for those who arrived on a general basis. For certain reasons, this period may be reduced. 5 years after receiving permanent residence, a foreigner has the right to apply for a Greek passport.

Important! When obtaining permanent residence and Greek citizenship, in addition to the main package of documents, you must have confirmation of the legality of obtaining your previous status.

Family reunion

Such rights arise for foreigners who have direct relatives in Greece with already issued permanent residence or Greek citizenship. Relationships at this level include:

• parents with Greek citizenship;
• foreigners who have adopted a child with Greek citizenship;
• directly the persons adopted by the Greeks.

This also includes marriage to a Greek citizen. The foreign spouse, 3 years after submitting the marriage certificate to the Migration Department, has the right to obtain Greek citizenship. an important condition is that the spouses have lived together for 3 years and the marriage has not broken up.

Mykonos Town, Mykonos, Greece — Mykonos — Image by © ML Sinibaldi/CORBIS

Employment

Of all the options, this is the hardest option for moving to Greece. The advantage of this method is that you do not need to confirm your financial solvency when moving to the country. In Greece it is very difficult to get a job without a European Blue Card or a European passport. In the Schengen zone, the employer has to prove that he was unable to find the right worker among the local population, and only then does he have the opportunity to employ a foreigner. The most popular specialties in Greece:

• nurse;
• nurse;
• auto mechanics;
• welder;
• maids;
• cleaners;
• waiters;
• harvester

To arrive by invitation for a specific job, you will need to apply for a category D visa. It is important to remember: if an employer offers to enter Greece on a tourist visa, this is a scam, and a foreigner is at great risk by applying for a job in this way. A work permit for foreigners must be issued to the employer by the Ministry of Labor.

A residence permit can only be obtained by a foreigner who has an official invitation from an employer. Also, with a high degree of probability, people of creative professions and athletes can get a job. If you focus on the age category, then the easiest way to find a job is for people 25-45 years old with a higher education and work experience in the chosen field.

Student immigration

A Greek higher education diploma is in demand not only in European countries, but throughout the world. The main attractive aspect of Greek education is its reasonable cost compared to most European universities. There are also no entrance exams. The average score of the certificate is used for admission.

Students of local educational institutions are provided with a huge number of comfortable conditions for studying: discounts on food and accommodation, discounts on transport travel. Also, on a student visa, you are allowed to work part-time during your free time from studying.

A national student visa is issued for the entire period of study. But to receive it, you need a letter of guarantee from the administration about the enrollment of a specific foreigner. It is important that after graduation you will have to find a job or any other way to stay in the country, since the residence permit will not be automatically extended.

Based on the results of your studies, you may be awarded a scholarship. To do this, you must submit a separate application to the administration.

Business

The main condition for starting a business in Greece is the availability of your own start-up capital. The specific amount required for start-up capital depends on the specifics of the enterprise and the type of business. To open a closed joint-stock company, you must have 20 thousand euros available, and 10 thousand of this will be the authorized capital.

In addition to starting capital for moving using this method, you should prepare the most detailed business plan. It will be considered by a special commission, which will make a decision on issuing a residence permit based on the submitted documents.

Conditions for obtaining a residence permit based on doing business:

• sufficient amount of money;
• no criminal record;
• availability of education or work experience in the chosen activity;
• absence of diseases that may be dangerous to others;
• presence of a real legal address where the company will be registered.

Interestingly, knowledge of the Greek language is not included in the prerequisites in this case.

Buying a property

This is a relocation option for wealthy Russian citizens. A person who has allowed himself to buy a villa or other real estate worth at least 250 thousand euros automatically receives a residence permit. Subsequently, the owner of the residence permit receives permanent residence and after 7 years applies for Greek citizenship. An option of several apartments is also suitable as real estate. It is important that the total cost of the purchased property is not less than the amount specified in the requirements. After submitting an application for a residence permit for the purchase of real estate, it usually takes 2 weeks and a positive decision is issued for 5 years. After 5 years, you can renew the document again for the same period. However, property owners do not have the right to create a business in Greece or employ workers.

Investment

This is another opportunity to obtain Greek citizenship without any problems. Suitable only for truly wealthy citizens, since not everyone is able to invest an amount of no less than 300 thousand euros into the economy of a foreign country. This is exactly the minimum investment threshold. As a result, the investor receives a residence permit for 2 and a half years with the possibility of extension. But to renew, the business in which the money was invested must prove profitable.

Permanent residence for wealthy pensioners

There is a high chance for retirees to move to a Mediterranean climate. This requires proof of high income. Every year a pensioner must receive at least 24 thousand euros.

In this case, the pensioner receives a residence permit, but without the right to work in Greece. Therefore, Russian pensioners who dream of moving to live on the seashore will have to look for permanent passive income or part-time work to provide the required level of income.

Obtaining a residence permit in Greece

To emigrate, a Russian must go through two stages of legalization:

1. Obtain a national D visa in the migrant’s home country.
2. Request residency status in Greece.

The procedure can be presented sequentially as a series of steps:

• Make an appointment at the consulate;
• Collecting documents and submitting an application;
• Receiving a passport with a ready visa;
• Entry into the country;
• Submitting the application and documents to the local Immigration Service before the visa expires;
• Payment of duty;
• Submission of biometric parameters;
• Obtaining a certificate of consideration of an application for legal residence while awaiting a decision;
• Issuance of a resident card in case of a positive result.

Permanent residence in Greece

You can obtain permanent residence in Greece after five years of legal residence in the country with the status of a residence permit. Different types of residence permits are issued for different periods of time. The first permit is most often issued for one year, the second - for two. But there are also exceptions.

For example, the residence permit of investors must be renewed every year, just like for financially secure immigrants.

And for those who buy real estate in Greece or for businessmen, repeated residence permits are issued for two years.

To apply for permanent residence in Greece, you must contact the relevant authorities with a written application, attaching evidence of your legal stay in the country for the previous five years, and also indicate the nature of your activities.

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You can stay in the country with permanent residence for an indefinite period, periodically renewing the document. Permanent residence gives residents the same rights as Greek citizens, with the exception of the right to vote.

If owning a Greek passport is a matter of principle, then you can apply for citizenship after five years of living in Greece with permanent residence status. For some categories of foreigners this period may be reduced. For example, for those who have bought expensive real estate, refugees, spouses or prominent personalities whose achievements may be useful to Greece.

Only people who have lived for more than 5 years on the basis of a residence permit can obtain permanent residence in Greece.

Permanent residence is issued by submitting a package of papers to the embassy:

• International passport.
• Employment contract (for working foreign residents).
• Permission to conduct business activities (for entrepreneurs).
• Residence permit.
• Bank statement on the current account status (the account must have at least 8,500 euros). A bank certificate is submitted by non-working persons.
• Salary certificate (for employed persons).
• Documents confirming the fact of marriage with a Greek citizen (if available).
• A certificate confirming that you have no criminal record in your home country.
• A police certificate confirming the absence of problems with the law in Greece.
• Receipt confirming payment of the state duty.

The review period is 2 months.

Obtaining Greek citizenship

In 2021, several options for acquiring Greek citizenship remain relevant for Russians.

1. Birthright. Applies to children whose mother or father is Greek. In addition, children of legal emigrants applying for citizenship who were born in the country and have lived in it for at least 8 years can apply for a passport.
2. Naturalization. Foreigners who have lived as residents for at least 7 years can use this method. To submit an application, they are required to pass exams confirming their knowledge of the history, culture and language of the country.
3. Repatriation. Suitable for migrants who have Greek roots and are able to prove this fact with documents. In this case, the Greek side does not require applicants to live in the country for a certain number of years and prove knowledge of the language.
4. Refugee. Greece, along with other EU states, accepts on its territory people forced to emigrate from their homes. Along with the application, they must provide documentary evidence of harassment based on race, national origin, or political background. Refugees can apply for a new passport after 6 years of residence. The authorities exempt them from language tests and the need to pay fees.
5. Family reunification. Persons whose close relatives have already become Greek citizens have the right to apply for citizenship. Family members include minor children, parents, brothers and sisters, and grandparents. They can move at the invitation of a relative, after which they will first have to obtain a residence permit, then apply for permanent residence and subsequently apply for citizenship.
6. Marriage. Foreign spouses can acquire civil status after 3 years of marriage. The main condition is the reality of the family union, which is confirmed by the spouses living together, having common bank accounts and the birth of joint children.
7. Investments in the economy. The authorities are implementing special programs that provide for a simplified procedure for issuing passports to wealthy businessmen who have purchased residential or commercial real estate worth at least 300 thousand euros.
8. Merits to Greece. On an individual basis, the President has the right, by his decision, to confer citizenship on foreigners who have made a significant contribution to the economic, cultural or scientific development of the country.

Ways to obtain a Greek residence permit in 2021

The most popular ways to obtain a Greek residence permit:

• family reunification;
• student visa;
• Work Visa;
• business emigration;
• investment residence permit;
• immigration when purchasing real estate;
• Residence permit for financially independent foreigners.

It is worth remembering that the total amount of investment in real estate or a Greek company must be at least 250,000 euros.

Family reunification

This program can be used by foreigners who have relatives permanently residing in Greece legally. Parents, children, spouses with a Greek passport or permanent residence permit are a very good reason for requesting a residence permit and immigration to Greece.

In the event of a marriage between a Greek citizen and a foreign national, a residence permit for the second can be issued by submitting a marriage certificate to the relevant migration agency. On its basis, a residence permit will be issued.

After living together for more than three years, you can collect documents and write an application for citizenship of the country.

To move to Greece under the family reunification program, you must provide documentary evidence of your relationship: a marriage/birth certificate. Such documents issued outside the European Union require not only translation into Greek, but also a special form of legalization - an apostille.

Emigration to Greece is also possible for family members of those foreigners who moved here earlier, settled here and received a residence permit. This situation also falls under the definition of family reunification.

Residence permit based on a student visa

All students who come here to study receive a residence permit in Greece. In order to obtain the necessary permission, you need to submit, along with other mandatory documents, a letter from the educational institution, which will indicate that the student is actually enrolled in such and such a faculty and specialty, the duration of study will be a certain amount of time.

Upon completion of their studies, every foreign student has the right to remain in the country to further search for work.

A residence permit for students is issued only in case of long-term education – more than 6 months. For short-term language courses/seminars for up to 6 months, you must apply for a Greek national visa.

Labor emigration to Greece

This is possible for residents of Russia, Ukraine and other countries that are not members of the European Union. But it seems to be one of the most difficult to implement moving to Greece. And it’s attractive because you don’t need to have huge sums and sources of passive income.

As in all EU countries, getting a job in Greece without a European passport or EU Blue Card will not be easy. This is due to the fact that all employers in the Schengen area are required to consider first candidates for positions from their own country, then specialists from the eurozone. And only if no suitable applicants are found, foreigners from third countries are employed.

In addition, hiring foreigners is accompanied by a lot of paperwork and bureaucratic red tape. To get a work visa and work permit in Greece, you need to find a company that is willing to go through the difficult journey and issue you an invitation. This will be the basis for issuing a residence permit.

Business immigration

One of the most attractive options for obtaining a residence permit in Greece. This has become especially relevant in 2021 and 2021, when the state is on the brink of crisis. You can move to a European country from Russia or Ukraine in order to organize your own business.

To open an analogue of our closed joint stock company in Greece, it is enough to have about 20 thousand euros, 18 of which will constitute the authorized capital. To register a private enterprise, you will need about 60 thousand euros of authorized capital, as well as associated costs for paperwork and organizing the office.

Before leaving to improve the economy of hospitable Greece, you will have to go through a number of bureaucratic procedures. Namely, contact the consulate with an official letter in which you describe in detail the future activities of your company. Based on this document, a special commission will decide on the relevance and feasibility of registering such a company in the country. And after that you will be issued a business permit and issued a residence permit.

In 2021, refusals were practically not registered, this is due to the fact that the country’s economy needs foreign capital, as well as additional jobs for its citizens. Therefore, all businessmen are treated very loyally and even help in some matters.

Residence permit for investors

The decision to issue a residence permit for this category of immigrants is made by two departments at once - the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Economy.

This is due to the fact that a foreigner is ready to invest a large amount in the development of the country - from 300 thousand euros. This could be sponsoring a project or participating in a local business, partially or fully paying for it.

However, a one-time cash injection makes it possible to obtain a residence permit for two years. To extend it, you need to show good results of your activities, providing real income and bringing tangible benefits to the state. Especially to identify scammers or unprofessional businessmen, the Greek authorities reserve the right to refuse to renew a residence permit. The decision on this issue is also made by two structures.

Residence permit when purchasing real estate

Residents of Russia have the opportunity to go to Greece, obtain a residence permit here, and then citizenship in a very simple way. In 2021, the country's authorities are very loyal to foreigners who purchase real estate for a large amount. You can choose an apartment, apartment, house or villa in any corner of Greece, on the mainland or island part.

The main condition is that the cost of housing is more than 250 thousand euros. Only in this case can you count on all the benefits listed.

Buying real estate is an excellent way to obtain permanent residence in Greece, even for retirees who will find it difficult to immigrate here under other proposed programs.

A foreigner who becomes a private owner of real estate in Greece automatically receives a residence permit, then permanent residence, and after only seven years can apply for a citizen’s passport.

Moreover, these same conditions apply not only to him, but also to all members of his family - close relatives and distant ones, including the spouse’s line.

However, the purchase of real estate does not oblige foreigners to reside permanently in Greece. You can leave for your homeland at any time, as well as sell your possessions. The transaction can be completed with a person who does not have citizenship in Greece or the European Union, while the new buyer will also receive the right to Greek permanent residence and an accelerated procedure for obtaining citizenship.

Residence permit for financially independent foreigners

Immigration to Greece under this program is possible for almost any category of citizens who have an independent source of permanent income, which will not change or undergo minor changes during various economic shocks. This applies to both young people and pensioners, single men and women, or entire families with children.

Often wealthy businessmen from Russia choose Greece as their second home and bring their whole family here, as there is a favorable climate, warm sea, fresh vegetables and fruits, and a low crime rate. They do not plan to earn money in Greece, receiving income from their own business in their homeland, renting out real estate or interest income from bank deposits. It is possible to live on dividends, but this is a less stable and reliable source of income, since the Greek authorities study such applications more carefully and can find fault with little things.

Wealthy pensioners may well go to Greece for permanent residence, but only on the condition that they have a sufficient level of monthly pension, which they should receive for life. Every year, to renew a residence permit, you must submit a bank certificate to the relevant departments, which demonstrates constant movement in the account and an income level of at least 24 thousand euros per person.

Otherwise, your financial solvency may seem insufficient to the inspection authorities, and instead of renewing your residence permit again, you will be asked to leave the country.

Residence permit for pensioners

Only wealthy pensioners can obtain a residence permit. Retired people are required to have a permanent and stable high income (at least 24 thousand euros per year or 2 thousand euros per month).

The basis for obtaining a residence permit may also be opening a current account in a Greek banking institution and depositing funds into it in the amount of 24,000 euros. A residence permit is issued for 12 months with the right of extension . You will be required to verify your sources of income with each renewal.

To receive it, you will need to submit a standard package of papers and documents confirming sources of income. Stable income is considered to be income from running your own business, receiving royalties, dividends or pensions. After all checks, the pensioner receives a residence permit, which does not provide for the possibility of employment in the territory of the republic.

List of in-demand professions and salaries for immigrants in Greece

The high level of unemployment creates certain difficulties in finding employment for Russians who decide to immigrate to this country for permanent residence. But this does not mean that getting a job is impossible. Foreigners who know Russian and English are in demand in the field of tourism and catering.

As of 2021, the minimum wage in Greece is approved by the government at 683 euros per month.

Package of documents and cost of legalization

You can cross the border for the purpose of emigration only on the basis of a category D visa, which must correspond to the chosen basis:

1. working;
2. student;
3. investor visa;
4. business etc.

Conventionally, all the papers that will be needed to legitimize your status will be divided into a main package and an additional one (depending on the basis of migration and the stage). To obtain a residence permit you will need:

1. A visa application form indicating that the candidate is applying for a residence permit.
2. Photo – 3 pcs.
3. Foreign passport with copies of completed spreads.
4. A certificate stating that the applicant has no criminal record.
5. Medical certificate confirming the absence of dangerous diseases.
6. Medical insurance with coverage starting from 30 thousand euros.
7. Confirmation of housing availability.
8. Financial guarantees.

To obtain a residence permit, you do not need to submit fingerprints (they are entered into the database when the visa is opened), and confirmation of your level of proficiency in Greek is also not required. An additional package of documents will include evidence of the migration method:

• invitation from the university;
• work permit and invitation from the employer;
• company registration certificate;
• agreement for the purchase and sale of property for the required amount;
• marriage certificate, etc.

Filing an application for permanent residence will require the same package of papers as for a residence permit, to which you must attach:

• certificates of residence permit extension;
• certificate of passing the Greek language exam;
• confirmation of permanent and legal income.

When applying for citizenship you will need:

• Permanent residence as confirmation of the legal basis of residence in the country;
• a medical certificate issued by a Greek clinic confirming the absence of AIDS and tuberculosis;
• European standard health insurance policy;
• guarantees of financial solvency.

If you are emigrating with children, you must attach the following to the package of papers:

• Marriage certificate;
• child's birth certificate;
• consent of the second parent if not the whole family is moving;
• personal foreign passport of a minor.

The costs at each stage will look like this:

Attitudes of locals towards immigrants in Greece

Russian-Greek relations were established back in the 19th century and go back several decades. Russia and Greece have always been friendly, which affects the friendly attitude of the Greeks towards the Russians who live in their country.

A large role in mutual understanding between the two peoples is played by their belonging to the same Orthodox faith. It is this circumstance that forces many Russians who want to move to Europe to emigrate to Greece.

Those who decide to move should not rely solely on the hospitality of local residents who are ready to sincerely help those who have asked questions on the street. It is worth taking into account significant differences in mentality that can change the idea of ​​easy and comfortable emigration.

The Greeks are very fond of investors from Russia and are wary of those who decide to emigrate for the purpose of employment. But, in general, we can say that despite the complications of Russian-European relations, ordinary people in Greece are very loyal to immigrants from Russia.

Significant points in moving to Greece from Russia for permanent residence

Before deciding to emigrate, you need to analyze aspects of life in the chosen state.

Work and financial situation

Before the pandemic, the Greek economy showed slight growth (about 2%) after the next crisis. The priority directions of state policy are the fight against poverty and the regulation of the situation on the labor market. Greeks often go to rallies due to financial problems.

About 60% of working Greek residents are employed in the service sector, the most common of which are tourism, shopping and banking. The country has developed ship rental and shipbuilding industries.

The most in demand are the following specialties:

• waiters;
• sellers;
• maids;
• travel agents.

Nannies for children and caregivers for elderly people are often needed. Large numbers of workers are required for construction and agricultural organizations.

Due to the demand for maritime transport, there are many vacancies for sailors in the country. Greece has developed textile and food industries, production of building materials, and mining. Specialists require proof of qualifications.

The monthly minimum wage in the country is 680 euros. The average salary varies from 900 to 1100 euros depending on the region. The income of illegal workers does not exceed 500 euros.

In Greece, working hours per week are 35-40 hours. Paid vacation is 24 days. Every year, employees receive Easter and Christmas bonuses. After dismissal, a benefit in the amount of 350 euros is transferred to their account for 12 months.

Emotionality and mental difference

Residents of Greece are open and sociable. They will find a topic of conversation even with a stranger. Most Russians have a closed, reserved character. Greeks are overly emotional people. When speaking, they often raise their tone and gesticulate strongly.

The Greeks are never in a hurry. This applies to various aspects of life: work, life, rest. For example, a called electrician may not only be late for the appointed time, but also come the next day. Employees of government agencies often delay the processing of certificates.

Paradise climate and ideal conditions

The climate of Greece, which varies greatly depending on the region, is divided into 3 types:

1. Moderate.
2. Mediterranean.
3. Alpine.

The swimming season in the country lasts 5 months. In summer, precipitation falls in small quantities in resort areas.

Numerous sandy beaches and picturesque nature are conducive to a relaxing holiday. The most beautiful and popular places are the Halkidiki peninsula, the islands of Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu.

Picturesque places and a wonderful holiday in Greece.

The attitude of the Greeks towards visitors

Most Greek residents treat Russians kindly. In order not to cause hostility among local residents, you need to respect their traditions.

Emigration prospects

On average, it takes 2-3 years to adapt to a new country. Greece will appeal to Russians who prefer a slow pace of life and are calm about the lack of punctuality of local residents. People who are accustomed to being organized and doing things quickly will feel uncomfortable after moving.

Often the financial situation of residents of the Russian province who moved to Greece changes for the better. But the increased level of salaries (compared to Russia) can be offset by the high cost of renting housing and food.

Often, workers with higher education are employed in low-skilled labor after emigration. Many Russians have a hard time accepting a decline in social status.

In Greece, free higher education is available to both locals and foreigners. The diploma obtained upon completion of training is valued not only in European countries, but throughout the world.

Slow life in Greece.

Greece visa centers in Russia

To go to Greece on vacation, visit it for business purposes, or emigrate for permanent residence, Russians need to apply for a visa. They are assisted in obtaining it by specialists from visa support centers operating in all major cities of Russia.

1. Moscow. At the address: Mytnaya, 66,.
2. Krasnoyarsk Building on Maerchaka, 16,.
3. Rostov-on-Don. Location: Trolleybusnaya, 24/2V, (8617) 729-821.
4. Saint Petersburg. The office is located: Bolshaya Raznochinnaya, 16, building A,.
5. Lipetsk. Address: Tereshkova street, 16.
6. Samara. Office on Michurina street, 78.
7. Arkhangelsk. The center is located: Lomonosov Avenue, 81, (812) 612-20-06.
8. Murmansk. Office at: Karl Liebknechta, 13, (812) 612-20-06.
9. Saratov. Building on Vavilova, 38/114.
10. Velikiy Novgorod. The center is located: Syrkovskoe highway, building 2, building A,.
11. Nizhny Novgorod. The center is located: Shcherbakova, 15, (499) 703-38-62.
12. Smolensk Office address: Nikolaeva, 20,.
13. Vladivostok. Office located: Okeansky Avenue, 17, (499) 703-38-62.
14. Novorossiysk. Center address: Karla Marksa, 49, (8617) 729-821.
15. Surgut. The branch is located: Republic, 63, (499) 709-83-18.
16. Vologda. Center address: Prechistenskaya embankment, 34, building A, (499) 703-38-62.
17. Novosibirsk The branch is located: Chelyuskintsev, 15, (499) 709-83-18.
18. Tomsk Office address: Lenina Avenue, 82, building B, (499) 703-38-62.
19. Voronezh. Building on the street Voroshilova, 16,.
20. Tyumen. Branch address: Sovetskaya, 51, building 1, (499) 703-38-62.
21. Ekaterinburg. The office is located: Kuibysheva, 44, building D, (499) 709-83-18.
22. Ufa. The center is located: Chernyshevsky, 82,.
23. Penza. The branch is located: Moskovskaya, 29, (499) 709-83-18.
24. Irkutsk Address: Sverdlova, 10,.
25. Permian. The branch is located: Chernyshevsky, 28, (499) 709-83-18.
26. Khabarovsk. The office is located: Istomina, 22, building A, (499) 703-38-62.
27. Kazan. Branch in the building: Paris Commune, 8, (499) 709-83-18.
28. Petrozavodsk. Center address: Gogol, 6,.
29. Chelyabinsk. The branch is located: Karla Marksa, 38, (499) 703-38-62.
30. Kaliningrad. Office address: 1812 Street, 126, (499) 709-83-18.
31. Pskov. The center is located: Rizhsky Avenue, 60, (812) 612-20-06.
32. Krasnodar. The office is located: Akademika Pavlova, 6, (8617) 729-821.

Step-by-step guide to legalization

The procedure for legalization and obtaining citizenship includes the following steps:

1. Arrival in Greece on the basis of a national visa.
2. Obtaining a residence permit. To do this, you need to contact the Migration Service in the first days after arriving in Greece. Temporary residence permits are renewed once every 1-2 years.
3. Registration of permanent residence.
4. Obtaining citizenship. The application is allowed to be submitted 5 years after receiving permanent residence.

It takes 10 years from the date of issuance of a residence permit to obtaining citizenship. With a simplified procedure (for example, for spouses of Greek citizens), the period is reduced.

Greek residence permit.

List of required documents to submit to the consulate

To obtain a D visa you will need the following documents:

1. Questionnaire.
2. International passport.
3. A document serving as the basis for obtaining a visa.
4. Color photographs (3 copies).
5. Certificate of no criminal record.
6. Medical policy. The amount of insurance coverage must be 30 thousand euros.
7. A document confirming the availability of real estate in Greece or a rental agreement issued for a long term (from a year or more).
8. Receipt for payment of state duty.
9. A medical certificate confirming that the applicant does not have dangerous diseases.
10. Confirmation of financial security. This could be a bank statement, a certificate from your place of work indicating your salary for the last 6 months.

Depending on the basis for obtaining a residence permit, the list of documents may be supplemented. Greek government agencies accept documents officially translated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Sample application form for Greek Schengen.

Waiting time for a decision

The visa application is processed within 45 days. The duration of the decision to issue a residence permit is 1-2 months. Consideration of an application for citizenship lasts for 2-3 months.

Price

For a category D visa, the applicant pays 180 euros. The state fee for obtaining a residence permit is 150 euros. Depending on the basis for obtaining a visa, the visa fee may be reduced (study) or absent (marriage, family reunification, refugee).

180 euros for a visa to Greece.

Comparative table of main indicators of living standards in Russia and Greece in 2015

Greece and migrants

The main donor countries of migrants for Greece are the countries of Eastern Europe, Albania and other small Balkan countries, Syria, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

It should be noted that there are a lot of illegal migrants in Greece, the flow of which has especially increased recently in connection with the events in Syria. Greece is also used for transit migration when migrants do not intend to live here permanently. These are mainly refugees, the attitude towards whom in the country is not very friendly, so they give preference to Germany, France or Scandinavian countries.

Greece is located in southeastern Europe within the Balkan Peninsula. In the east it is washed by the Thracian, Aegean and Icarian seas, the Mediterranean and Cretan in the south, and the Ionian Sea in the west. It has 166 inhabited and 1259 uninhabited islands.

Greece is very attentive to the issues of labor migration. Every year, quotas and restrictions are introduced on the total number of foreign citizens arriving in the country to work. At the same time, any enterprise must adhere to the ratio of Greeks and migrants as ten to one. If the company has less than five employees with Greek citizenship, hiring foreigners is generally prohibited.

Some statistics

In percentage terms, migrants make up 8.4% of the total Greek population of 11.3 million people, as of 2010. This is almost 950 thousand people. For example, in 2001 the number of visiting immigrants was 413 thousand people. By the end of 2015, according to some estimates, the number of displaced people had already reached 1 million people. The total number of workers in Greece is approximately 4.4 million people, of which 9 to 11% are foreigners.

Natural population growth in the country has been negative for many years. Replenishment comes only from immigrants. You can track population migration trends in Greece using the net migration rate, which is the difference between the number of immigrants and emigrants in the country for the year, divided by a thousand. For example, if in a year 10 thousand people came to live in the country, and 7 thousand left, then the value of the coefficient will be (10000–7000)/1000=3 .

From 1960 to 2015, the value of the migration coefficient took on both a positive value when there were more people entering the country, and a negative value when the opposite process was observed. From 1960 to 1970, Greece experienced a decline in immigration. There was a slight increase from 1975 onwards, peaking in 1980 when the migration rate, measured in ppm, exceeded 7 units. Once again in 1995, the coefficient value was almost 9 ppm, after which this indicator stabilized and reached a level of approximately 2 units. In 2015, there was a sharp drop in the value of this indicator, which indicated a downward trend in the attractiveness of Greece as a country of choice for permanent residence.

According to the CIA directory of countries around the world, the stability of migration processes in Greece will be restored and the net migration rate is planned to be about 2.33 ppm for 2021.

Santorini is one of the most romantic, picturesque and mysterious islands of Greece, which a huge number of visitors strive to get to.

Greece was one of the last to join the European Union. This is probably the most problematic country in the EU. But the mere fact that Greece is a member of the European Union attracts immigrants from all over the world.

Living in Greece is much preferable to living in some non-EU Eastern European countries. Due to its natural features, wonderful climate, rich history and culture, and the friendly nature of the Greeks, the country attracts both tourists and immigrants.

First of all, ethnic Greeks from countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Montenegro, Serbia, Croatia, Malta, etc. come to Greece for permanent residence. Representatives of other nationalities also come.

According to the testimonies of those for whom Greece has become a new homeland, no one there is divided into friends and foes, as in Germany. Immigrants do not feel second-class, no one pays attention to their accent, they are the same as everyone else.

https://www.greeceabout.ru/content/otnoshenie-k-immigrantam

Are subsidies available to visitors?

In Greece, state assistance in matters related to the settlement of displaced people in a new place is minimal. Immigrants should not expect any payments. Judge for yourself, if even for its Greek women, the parliament abolished benefits for the birth of a child.

How do Russians live in Greece?

Russian emigration to Greece has a long, almost century-long history, the beginning of which dates back to the twenties of the last century. For some, this country was a transit point, but many found their new homeland here. Very few Russians, the majority of whom are ethnic Greeks, go to Greece for permanent residence. In ten years, from 1997 to 2005, no more than 2 thousand of our fellow citizens became its residents. Currently, there are about 14 thousand Russians who have received Greek citizenship.

Children of Russian immigrants try to adapt to local customs as much as possible

Since the Greek government strongly opposes immigration to their country due to the ongoing crisis, immigrants have to face great difficulties. But Russian immigrants do not despair and believe in the best.

I don’t want to go back after a couple of months, but what can you expect from people who have been living there for almost 20 years?

asatiani https://www.disput.az/?app=forums&module=forums&controller=topic&id=401688

Russians permanently residing in Greece can be divided into those who came in the hope of finding a permanent job and those who marry a Greek man or marry a Greek woman. Their lives have significant differences, because some are primarily interested in the economic component, while others are worried about establishing family life.

Video: one hundred facts about life in Greece through the eyes of Russians

Features of the community

Currently, the community of Russian-speaking immigrants, which is based on Pontian Greeks and includes 14 thousand former Russian citizens, numbers about 400 thousand people.

Russian migrants in Greece are direct descendants of Greek settlers who moved to Russia during the time of Catherine the Great. The beginning of migration processes dates back to the post-revolutionary period of the twenties of the last century.

The community promotes Russian culture, opens schools for children of immigrants and foreigners, publishes newspapers and thematic magazines, and organizes screenings of Russian TV series.

Russian immigrants settle mainly in Athens or Thessaloniki, but you can also meet them in small towns.

The community’s spiritual life does not go unnoticed, which, of course, cannot surprise anyone, because Greeks and Russians are connected by common traditions and religion. More recently, an emigrant union, named after the wife of the last envoy of the Emperor of Russia, whose name was Sofia Demidova, resumed its activities in the country. The Russian community preserves its spiritual heritage, erects monuments to its soldiers and organizes summer holidays for Russian children on the coast of Greece.

Most Russians quickly adapt to Greek reality. Learning Greek will not be so difficult; it will be much more difficult to write and read it. Not all immigrants can quickly get used to the curiosity and talkativeness of the Greeks, to their desire to communicate. They care about everything, even your personal life and everyday life will not go without close attention. After you get accustomed to Greece at least a little, all negative emotions will disappear and only positive ones will remain, associated with the beauty and spaciousness of this amazing country.

I live in Greece, excellent climate, no winter, no snow, winter temperature is plus 17, if you can call it winter. The Greeks are very friendly and open people. The British are also lazy people, but there is no such freedom of soul as in Greece, no one swears on the streets like Russians. Excellent nature, ecology, quality products. It’s hard with work, as in all of Europe now, I have many relatives in Europe, I know. Women there live like queens, since the majority do not work, this, by the way, is in the blood of the nation, men provide for them, and they are excellent family men.

Natalya https://www.woman.ru/psycho/medley6/thread/4250782/

How much do Russians earn? Employment nuances

It is quite difficult for newly arriving Russians to find qualified work with decent pay. This has been felt especially acutely in recent years. You can get a job as a bartender, waiter, look after the elderly or children, clean the area, or work at a construction site. Average earnings range from 350 to 700 euros per month, which is what you have to live on. It is much easier to find work in large cities such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion. On the island part of Greece, if you do not have your own business, finding a job is almost impossible. As elsewhere, qualified programmers and doctors are valued. When moving, a contract must be signed with them, where the salary, place of residence and other conditions necessary for a prosperous life have already been agreed upon. Many immigrants are engaged in tourism and construction business, and not without success.

How do Greeks treat Russians?

The attitude of the Greeks towards Russian immigrants is quite friendly, more welcoming than towards immigrants from Afghanistan or Pakistan, who often have a dangerous reputation and enter Greece illegally. There are, of course, those who have a negative attitude towards our former compatriots, and especially towards those who have achieved success in their new homeland. What to do, this happens.

Greece treats our Russians well, but they have an extremely negative attitude towards Pakistanis and everyone else who sails through Turkey!

Kritjanka https://peopleandcountries.com/thread-8095–1–1.html

Video: attitude towards Russians in Greece

I keep a blog “My Greece”, where I try to introduce readers to life here, from Halkidiki, how you can see what travel agencies won’t show you, what you should pay attention to, how to communicate with Greeks, and so on. After all, Russians in Greece make up, perhaps, the majority of tourists arriving every year. In the Free Travelers Club, I want to share my impressions of life in Greece, about what may seem unusual and surprising. I’ll make a reservation right away: after so many years of living among the Greeks, living in a Greek village and communicating mainly with local residents, I sometimes forget that things can be different somewhere. :)) Sometimes it seems to me that I perceive many things as a Greek. So, the first thing I felt when I first arrived in Greece was my country . There is a very special energy here, there is some kind of peace and tranquility in the air, you feel relaxed and... a little stunned by causeless happiness? I don’t know how to explain this phenomenon in words! And many tourists told me something similar. Having visited Greece once, a large number of people come here again and again , falling in love with this country once and for all. Increasingly, Russians in Greece are buying real estate and settling for the holidays, or even permanently. Especially here in Halkidiki, in one of the most beautiful resorts of the Aegean Sea. I can’t talk about Greece without emotion, and I still can’t look indifferently at the beautiful landscapes - expanses of flat fields, blue mountains on the horizon, the magnificent forests of Kassandra, the wild rocks of Sithonia, a transparent sea of ​​unimaginable turquoise shades... Every time it’s as if you see everything this is the first time!

Speaking about Greece, we can say that all of it is one big village. That is, this is a small country where even city residents have some kind of village roots, a parental house in the village, relatives. It’s not for nothing that on major holidays – especially Easter – cities are literally empty: residents go to their small homelands to roast the Easter lamb with their families (remember the movie “The Big Greek Wedding”?)? You won’t see as many gloomy faces on the streets as in Russia. A Greek does not need an invitation to enjoy life. You constantly see acquaintances meet, greet each other, and ask how things are going. Greeks easily make contact even with a stranger. If you ask for help (ask for directions, ask to call) - as a rule, they will not refuse. Tourists have told me many times how complete strangers accompanied them to the right place or explained the best way to get there. And since Greece is a big village, then the mentality here is more rural, house-building. Yes, it is gradually becoming extinct among young people, but it is still quite strong. “Scratch” a city dweller and a house-building will still emerge from under the shell of civilization. I say all this, loving the Greeks and knowing that they will not be offended: after all, they have a sense of humor. Moreover, the Greeks laugh equally easily at a good joke and at themselves. Greeks also easily make physical contact - shaking hands, patting a child on the cheek, patting a child on the shoulder, hugging... This is natural for them, but northern Europeans often accept this behavior as familiarity or harassment. Therefore, the Greeks perceive the northern inhabitants as “cold”, but they themselves are not offended, knowing this difference in character.

Why else are Russians surprised in Greece? The operating hours of the stores are unusual . Russian residents, “spoiled” by supermarkets and shops open 24 hours a day, are very surprised to learn that in Greece everything is completely different. I remember a funny incident: our tourists passed by the tavern where I worked then and asked me about the bus stop in Thessaloniki. I explained to them, they left - and it was Saturday afternoon. The next day they came with a complaint: they didn’t find a single open department store and looked at me as if I had let them down. And I actually completely forgot that they left on Saturday, when all the stores close at 14.00. In resort villages, shops are usually open every day - well, perhaps intermittently. And in cities, the operating hours of department store stores are as follows: Monday, Wednesday, Saturday: from 9.00 to 14.00 Tuesday, Thursday, Friday - from 9.00 to 14.00 and from 17.00 to 21.00. Sunday is a day off. And this is the law, not the whim of store owners! How do Russians live in Greece, how are they treating us here, you ask? To begin with, I will say that “Russians” here refer to all immigrants from all countries of the former Union. And in general, the attitude towards Russians as a nation is friendly - after all, there is one religion (which is important for the Greeks), and we are similar in many ways (although there are more than enough differences). For the most part, Greeks are not racists and get along well with any neighbors. And the recent rise of the fascist party worries many. I believe that in any country, as you treat people, so they treat you. Be yourself, but respect the country in which you live, respect the people who accepted you, and don’t complain - by and large, no one invited us here. Come yourself and be kind enough to respect the indigenous people, learn the language, learn more about Greece, be interested in the history of the country... Accept the terms of the game - that is, the rules of conduct in the country. Here is a striking example of ignorance of the rules of politeness accepted in Greece. In recent years this is no longer so noticeable, but before everyone knew: if tourists walk into a small store and don’t say hello, they are usually Russians or from the Eastern bloc. In Soviet times, we were not accustomed to attention from sellers and waiters, and many still do not think that we should say hello when arriving somewhere. Or maybe they just don’t consider it necessary to do this…. What else do you need to know about Greece? Many more appropriately and inappropriately mention the Mediterranean siesta. (Here, there’s even a poem!))) Like, these Greeks are lazy, they just want to sleep, they don’t want to work. But the traditional siesta in hot countries is a cruel necessity. For example, one of my relatives gets up no later than 5 am, and often even earlier if he needs to go to the field. Before lunch he works in the fields, and after lunch he rests. At 16.30 we drink coffee in a regular group, since at this time my husband also returns from work, and then again everyone goes about their business and the men again work until dark. Just try working in the field at 35-40 degrees Celsius! I'm sure it won't seem too little. :))) And almost only a few tourists walk along the city streets during siesta... And in the evening, when it’s cold, you can go out for a walk and organize a holiday, of which we have plenty in the summer - thank God, there are many saints, and everyone has there are name days.

I would also like to note that don’t really believe the media about the situation in Greece. Even when there were riots in Athens a year or two ago, practically nothing changed at the tourist resorts; there were only isolated cases of strikes by taxi drivers and air traffic controllers. Now everything is calm - and in Chalkidiki it has always been calm. Tourists ask: where is the crisis here? This very crisis is noticeable only to a local resident in his pocket, but for guests of Greece, on the contrary, prices have dropped in some places. Tourists are loved and treated here - how could it be otherwise! So life for Russian tourists in Greece is definitely good! Friends, we will continue the conversation about Greece and the Greeks, as well as how Russians live in Greece in the following articles. I would be glad if you write what topics interest you most. And, of course, I invite you to my website if you want to learn more about Greece!

Especially for the Free Travelers Club, Elena Meteleva. https://elramd.com/

What else interests you about Greece? Write your questions and impressions below.