4,790 migrants have already applied for a new residence permit

As of March 1, 4,790 applications for residence permits have been submitted in Greece under the application of Article 193 of Law 5078/2023 granting a new type of residence permit for work to third-country nationals.

As a reminder, the digital platform for submitting applications to the Ministry of Immigration and Asylum was activated on February 9, 2024. Of those who applied, 828 migrants have already received a “blue card” (residence permit), while 3,952 applications are pending. In less than a month, the digital platform was visited by more than 10,000 interested parties.

Dimitris Kairides, Minister of Immigration and Asylum, is satisfied with the pace of both the submission and processing of applications for residence permits. He emphasized quotes CNN Greece:

“In this way we give access to legal employment to foreigners who have been living in Greece for many years and give the opportunity to restore order in the labor market.”

As we previously reported, article 193 of Law 5078/2023 establishes a new procedure granting a residence permitwhich provides access to dependent labor, to the provision of services or work to third-country nationals.

To be able to apply for a residence permit, a foreigner must have the following prerequisites:

• A responsible statement from the employer regarding the provision of employment for a foreigner in Greece.
• Stay in Greece until November 30, 2023 without a residence permit.
• Permanent residence in Greece for at least three years until November 30, 2023, the fact of which will need to be proven by the presence of identifying and supporting documents.
• Having a passport, even if it has expired.
• Absence of reasons for violating public order and public safety.
• Payment of state duty in the amount of 300 €.

Those interested can submit their applications until December 31, 2024.

It is worth recalling that, as our publication previously reported, the Greek government approved new rules obtaining a residence permit in the country. They came into force on January 1, 2024. What’s new about them?

The Greek authorities have approved a law to simplify the immigration process and new conditions for obtaining a residence permit. Electronic residence permits have been in force in the country since January 2023, and their existence is now enshrined in a new law. Applicants receive an electronic certificate of application, which is valid for the entire period until a decision is made to issue a residence permit. Applicants apply for and renew the document on the Ministry of Migration website and receive confirmation of their residence permit by email.

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