Applying for a D Visa in Greece
Greece has a relatively complex visa and migration system, particularly when you are looking for long-term options. From Golden Visa to FIP Visa applications, there are a number of long-term options. For the medium to long term, one option to stay in Greece is the national Visa D. This article will guide you through how to apply for your national Visa D and give you an understanding of eligibility and the process.
The Long-Term Visa (National Visa D) – What is it?
A Greek consulate can issue an authorisation to a person who is a third-country national to stay on Greek territory for a period longer than 90 days and up to 365 days, depending on the visa category. This is called a National Visa D or is also known as a long-term visa.
The visa is granted under both Greek legislation and EU law. This visa is very popular and useful for many of our clients who are coming to Greece for family reasons, to undertake education or for some kind of employment, where the relevant visa category permits. It’s a reasonable amount of time (up to 1 year in total) and may involve less paperwork than some other residence permit processes, depending on the circumstances.
Where can I apply for a D Visa for Greece?
You need to submit your application to the Greek Consulate or Consular Authority in your region (based on your place of legal residence). There can be varying wait times for an appointment depending on the consulate, so you will need to call and book. You also need to ask them about their specific requirements, as these can vary. Your application will need to be submitted to the consulate for approval. There can be a significant wait depending on which country and city you are based in.
What documents do I require for a Type D visa?
To ensure the application process is smooth (and because the easiest way to annoy a Greek public service is to have the incorrect documents and have to go back again and again), it’s a good idea to get all your documentation organised prior to submitting your application. The documents you generally need in order to apply for a Type D Visa in Greece include:
- A completed application form: You will need a recent colour, passport-size photo as well as the application form, which needs to be signed.
- A passport: You will need to provide a current and valid passport (or other recognised travel document). A critical point is that the passport generally needs to be valid for three months after the end of the proposed visa period. Be careful not to mistake this with having only three months’ validity. If you are applying for a visa for 10 months, then your passport will generally need to have at least 13 months’ validity remaining from the intended start date of your stay.
- A medical / health certificate: This needs to be from a recognised public or private body. It needs to be in writing and signed to confirm that you do not have a disease that poses a risk to public health under the applicable requirements.
- Criminal record check: This generally needs to be from your country of residence, although additional checks may be required. It must satisfy the applicable criminal record requirements.
- Valid insurance: One of the major concerns of the Greek Government is that you have the appropriate insurance. You need to have travel insurance or other qualifying insurance that covers you for the proposed period you wish to stay in Greece, including the required medical and repatriation cover. This is a strict condition of the visa.
Additional documentation is generally required depending on the purpose and category of your visa, such as employment, study or family circumstances. When you book an appointment with the consulate, it’s important to double-check the specific requirements, supporting documents and applicable fees.
Other tips to help you quickly and seamlessly get a Type D Visa for Greece
- Tip 1: Tell the consulate the reason for your appointment when you call them. It’s important to be polite and patient when dealing with the consulate and to make sure you get the exact documentation which they ask for. When meeting with the consulate, be patient and don’t rush them. They will take time to check your documentation in front of you, and you need to wait politely. Be polite and firm and explain the documentation to them if asked.
- Tip 2: Don’t leave it till the last minute. Sometimes small things come up in the application process. You may have written the wrong date on the application form, the health insurance may be the wrong type of insurance required, or the doctor may have forgotten to sign the letter. These things happen, and the consulate will generally notice any issues and raise them with you. That is why you will need time to get them fixed, and you shouldn’t leave your application to the last minute.
Assistance from our team
If you would like assistance with coordinating your Type D Visa application, or you have secured a Type D Visa and would like assistance with your AFM and/or other tax issues through our independent professional partners, feel free to contact our team today.
Client testimonials
We are a company and needed to process over 10 Type D visas for our personnel. We found the Tsaks Consulting team to be efficient and responsive. They were able to guide us through the entire process, and their legal partners were fantastic. If you want guidance on the Type D visa, speak to Tsaks Consulting.
Jennifer P | China-Based Corporation | China and Athens
Tsaks Consulting is great. They are professional and responsive. They provide detailed guidance and information, and they were our go-to source for information on our visa. One of their lawyer partners assisted us with our Type D visa application, and they made the entire process quick and easy. I would recommend them to anybody looking for migration guidance or visa guidance in Greece.
Chris S | Private Individual | Canada and Thessaloniki
Important Clarification
Tsaks Consulting Greece is a business consultancy and does not operate as a law firm or immigration legal practice. We provide consultancy, administrative assistance and coordination services, working with independent immigration lawyers, accountants and other qualified professionals where required. Legal and other regulated professional advice is provided by these independent professionals. Visa requirements and immigration laws may change, and applicants should confirm the applicable requirements with the relevant Greek consulate or qualified professional.