How to Legally Avoid Greek Military Service When Living Abroad
- GetGreece
- Oct 18
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Many men delay getting Greek citizenship because they fear being drafted into the army. The reality is that Greeks who live abroad can legally postpone or avoid service by proving permanent residence outside Greece.
Who Has to Serve in the Greek Military
All male Greek citizens between ages 19 and 45 have a military obligation. This applies whether you live in Greece or overseas. Service normally lasts 12 months for the army, though shorter terms apply in some cases.
When you become a Greek citizen, the law includes you in the draft pool. If you are a permanent resident abroad, Greece allows you to legally postpone or be exempt from service.
What Counts as Permanent Residency Abroad (Μόνιμος Κάτοικος Εξωτερικού)
To qualify as a Permanent Resident Abroad, you must meet one of these conditions:
You have lived abroad for at least 11 consecutive years.
You have worked abroad full-time for at least 7 consecutive years.
Your time spent in Greece each year must not exceed 6 months. If you stay longer, your permanent residency abroad status is canceled and you can become eligible for service again.
Once approved, you receive the Certificate of Permanent Resident Abroad for military use. This certificate postpones military duty until you turn 45, after which you are permanently exempt.
Free Greek Military Clarity Consultation
Not sure if you can avoid the military? Book a Free Greek Military Clarity Consultation with GetGreece. Tell us your situation and we will explain what applies to you under current Greek law, and how you can avoid any military time.
Age and Residency Scenarios Explained
Greek military law covers men aged 19 to 45. If you live permanently abroad and hold a valid Certificate of Permanent Resident Abroad, you remain protected from conscription until age 45. If you stay in Greece longer than 6 months in a calendar year, that protection ends. Maintain valid residence abroad until your 45th birthday and you are permanently exempt.
Moving Back to Greece After Living Abroad
If you return to Greece permanently and work, pay taxes, or establish long-term residence, your exemption may end. Short family visits or limited stays under 6 months per year will not affect your status. Once you relocate full-time, the Greek army can reconsider your eligibility.
How to Apply for the Certificate of Permanent Resident Abroad
Applying for the certificate is done once you become a Greek citizen. It is a formal application through your local consulate. This process is handled for you when applying for citizenship with GetGreece.
You simply provide proof that you live or work abroad, such as:
Tax records or employment contracts
Proof of social security contributions abroad
Utility bills or leases showing long-term residence
The documentation is submitted once. After approval, you receive your official certificate confirming permanent residence abroad. This certificate is what protects you from military service obligations in Greece.
For personal help, call 1-833-694-7332 or start your case at GetGreece.com.
Student Deferments for Greeks Abroad
If you study full-time outside Greece, you can apply for a student deferment. You will need:
Proof of enrollment
A letter from your school confirming full-time attendance
When your studies end and you continue living abroad, you can apply for the permanent resident certificate to maintain exemption.
Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Military Service
Who must serve in the Greek army?
All male Greek citizens between the ages of 19 and 45 are required to serve, unless they qualify for a deferment or exemption.
How long does Greek military service last?
Service normally lasts 12 months in the army, though certain categories or backgrounds may have shorter obligations.
Who issues the Certificate of Permanent Resident Abroad?
The certificate is issued by your local Greek consulate once you submit all supporting documents.
How long must someone live abroad to qualify for the certificate?
You must have lived abroad continuously for at least 11 years or worked full-time abroad for 7 years.
When does postponement from service end?
Postponement applies until the age of 45. After that, you are permanently exempt from Greek military service.
Do I have to renew the Certificate of Permanent Resident Abroad?
No. The certificate does not expire unless your circumstances change or you move back to Greece.
Can I visit Greece and keep my permanent resident status?
Yes, as long as your total stay in Greece does not exceed six months per year. Staying longer cancels your status as a permanent resident abroad.
What happens if I move back to Greece permanently?
If you return to live and work full-time in Greece, your exemption or deferment ends, and you may become subject to military obligations again.
Will Greece arrest me when I land in Athens?
No. If you live abroad and hold a valid Certificate of Permanent Resident Abroad or a student deferment, you can enter and leave Greece safely. The Greek army focuses on residents who live in Greece full-time.
What happens if I visit Greece without the certificate?
If you are a permanent resident abroad but have not yet received your certificate, you can still visit for up to six months per year. Longer stays may cause your residency status to be reviewed, so it is safer to apply before traveling.
Can I travel to Greece safely if I hold dual citizenship?
Yes. Dual citizens with valid exemption or deferment documents can enter and exit Greece without issue. Keep your Greek passport and certificate when you travel.
Can GetGreece help me avoid Greek military service legally?
Yes. GetGreece handles the paperwork and works through consular channels to make sure you are fully protected as a permanent resident abroad.
Visiting Greece Without Military Concerns
If you live abroad and hold a valid Certificate of Permanent Resident Abroad, you can visit Greece freely. Keep a copy of your certificate and passport when entering Greece. The army focuses on residents living inside Greece, not verified residents abroad.
How GetGreece Helps You Stay Protected
GetGreece ensures your citizenship and exemption are handled correctly. We review your case, prepare your documentation, file your applications properly with the consulate, and confirm that your military status is legally secure.
Book your Free Greek Military Clarity Consultation today at GetGreece.com or call 1-833-694-7332.
Start Your Greek Citizenship Application
Once your military status is clear, you can safely continue your citizenship process. GetGreece has helped thousands of Greeks abroad navigate the legal steps with confidence.
Start Your Application at GetGreece.com/greekcitizenship or call 1-833-694-7332 to speak with a specialist.
Take the Next Step with Confidence
Greek citizenship should be exciting, not stressful. Whether you want to reconnect with your roots, secure dual nationality, or protect yourself from military obligations, GetGreece is here to guide you every step of the way.
Start with your Free Greek Military Clarity Consultation to confirm your status, then move forward knowing your path is legal and secure.
Visit GetGreece.com or call 1-833-694-7332 to begin.
Additional Resources:
This article was written by GetGreece, the leading service helping Greeks abroad with citizenship, inheritance, and tax representation.
