Greek citizenship: benefits and conditions for obtaining

Greek citizenship is not only an opportunity to live in a beautiful country. It opens access to all rights of citizens EU – freedom of movement, obtaining quality education, employment.

Advantage of Greek citizenship

A comfortable climate, sea and magical landscapes, the rich history of the country are not a complete list of reasons why many would like to obtain Greek citizenship. Among the most important:

1. Greek citizenship provides access to the rights of citizens of the European Union.
2. Freedom of movement: With a Greek passport, you can visit more than 170 countries without a visa, including the UK, USA and Canada.
3. The right to work and education in any EU state.
4. Medical and social security, access to the European healthcare system and social guarantees.
5. Simplified conditions for doing business in Europe.

How to become a Greek citizen

According to the legislation of the country, there are several methods of naturalization:

1. Citizenship by birth. Automatic acquisition of Greek citizenship, regardless of the child’s place of birth, if at least one of the parents is a Greek citizen.
2. Citizenship through marriage. Foreigners can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage to a Greek citizen. Confirmation of the authenticity of the marital relationship is a marriage certificate and cohabitation (joint registration).
3. Long-term residence in the country – Foreigners who have lived legally in Greece for at least 7 years can apply for citizenship. To do this, you will need to confirm a stable income or employment and pass an exam on knowledge of the language, culture and history of the country.
4. Investments in the economy: at first “Golden Visa” program allows you to obtain a residence permit in exchange for investment, and later citizenship. You can invest in real estate, a Greek business or a fund. Residence in Greece is not required, but a residence permit renewal is required every five years.
5. Citizenship for ethnic Greeks. Persons of Greek origin have simplified access to citizenship. It is necessary to provide documents confirming family ties with Greek citizens.

Requirements for candidates for citizenship

• To obtain Greek citizenship, you must meet certain requirements:
• Prove legal residence. The minimum period depends on the chosen method of naturalization.
• Confirm financial stability – have income documents, tax returns.
• Know Greek at a basic level in order to pass an interview or exam.
• Have no criminal record (provide a certificate of no criminal record).

Step-by-step process for obtaining citizenship

First you need to prepare the required package of documents:

1. Passport and residence permit.
2. Confirmation of financial solvency.
3. Documents of residence in Greece (rental housing, utility bills).
4. Birth and, if necessary, marriage certificates.

A package of documents and an application are submitted to the municipal or migration authorities of Greece. During the interview, candidates must answer questions about Greek culture, politics and language. The application review process may take 1 to 2 years.

Cost of obtaining citizenship

Financial expenses:

• Government fees (approximately €700).
• Services of translators, notary and lawyer.
• Additional costs when participating in investment programs.

Possible difficulties

As in any process of this kind, certain nuances and difficulties may arise when obtaining Greek citizenship. These are, for example, difficulties in communication due to the language barrier, long processing times for applications and banal bureaucracy. Many applicants for citizenship turn to professional migration agencies and lawyers for help, who help with the preparation of documents and accompany them at all stages.

The choice of naturalization method depends on your situation and goals. Preparing for the process requires patience and thoroughness, but the result will be worth all the effort.

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