What Is the Greek FIP Visa?

The Greek Financially Independent Person Visa, known as the FIP Visa, is a residence permit that allows non-EU nationals to live in Greece without working for a Greek employer. It is designed for people who have already built their financial life elsewhere and want to enjoy it in Greece, whether in retirement, from investment income, or simply as financially independent individuals who have chosen Greece as their home.

Who It Is For

The FIP Visa is best suited for retirees, people living off pensions or investment returns, individuals with rental income from properties abroad, and those with substantial savings who do not need to work to support themselves. It is not designed for active remote workers who are employed by foreign companies on a day-to-day basis. If your income comes from actively working for an employer abroad, the Greek Digital Nomad Visa is likely the more appropriate pathway.

The Income Requirement

To qualify for the FIP Visa you must demonstrate a minimum passive income of €3,500 per month as the main applicant. The threshold increases by 20 percent for a spouse and 15 percent for each dependent child. Acceptable income sources include foreign pension payments, dividends, rental income from properties outside Greece, interest from investment portfolios, and other passive income streams. The income must be stable, recurring, and earned outside Greece. Savings deposits can support your application but Greek authorities prefer to see consistent recurring income rather than a lump sum.

What You Get

The FIP Visa initially grants a three-year renewable residence permit. You can renew it indefinitely as long as you continue to meet the income requirements. The permit covers your spouse and dependent children under 21. It grants you the right to live in Greece, access public and private healthcare, and travel visa-free throughout the Schengen Area for the duration of your stay.

The Stay Requirement

Unlike the Golden Visa, the FIP Visa does require you to actually live in Greece. You must spend at least 183 days per year in the country to maintain your permit and qualify for renewal. This is an important distinction for anyone considering both options. The FIP Visa is for people who genuinely intend to make Greece their primary home. The Golden Visa is for those who want Greek residency with the flexibility to live elsewhere.

You Cannot Work in Greece on a FIP Visa

The FIP Visa explicitly does not permit employment in Greece. You cannot take a job with a Greek employer, work as a contractor for Greek clients, or register a business in Greece that involves active income while on this permit. The visa is granted on the basis that your income comes entirely from outside Greece and that you are not competing in the Greek labor market.

The Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

After five years of continuous legal residency on the FIP Visa you become eligible to apply for permanent residency. After seven years of continuous residency you may apply for Greek citizenship through naturalization, subject to passing a Greek language exam at B1 level and demonstrating integration into Greek society. The FIP Visa is not a shortcut to citizenship, but for those committed to building a life in Greece it provides a clear and well-defined pathway.

The 7 Percent Tax Regime

One of the most compelling financial benefits for retirees considering the FIP Visa is Greece's flat 7 percent tax rate on foreign-sourced pension income. Eligible retirees who transfer their tax residency to Greece can apply for this regime, which applies for up to 15 years. For those with significant foreign pension income, the tax savings can be substantial compared to rates in their home country.

Learn More and Get Started

If you are considering the FIP Visa as your pathway to living in Greece, GetGreece can guide you through the application process. Visit our FIP Visa page to learn more and speak with the GetGreece team about whether the FIP Visa is the right option for your situation.