1. What are the legal rights and obligations of US citizens and green card holders while living in Greece?
US citizens and green card holders have the right to live and work in Greece, as long as they comply with the immigration regulations of Greece. US citizens and green card holders have the obligation to abide by the laws of Greece, pay taxes, and respect local customs and regulations. They must also register with the local police within 90 days of their arrival in Greece. Additionally, US citizens and green card holders must obtain a valid residence permit from the Greek government in order to stay in Greece for more than 90 days. Finally, US citizens and green card holders are subject to the same obligations as Greek citizens when it comes to military service.2. Are there any immigration benefits for US citizens and green card holders in Greece?
Yes, individuals who are US citizens or green card holders can get certain immigration benefits while in Greece. For example, they can apply for a visa to live and work in Greece. Additionally, they may be able to obtain residency permits, depending on their eligibility.3. Are US citizens and green card holders allowed to work in Greece?
US citizens and green card holders are allowed to work in Greece, however, they must obtain a residence permit and a work permit before they can start working.4. Is there a specific quota for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a work visa in Greece?
There is no specific quota for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a work visa in Greece. The requirements for obtaining a work visa in Greece depend on the type of job and the length of stay. Generally, US citizens and green card holders must apply for a residence permit before entering Greece. The requirements for obtaining a residence permit include a valid passport, evidence of financial resources, application forms, and proof of employment or business activity.5. Are US citizens and green card holders eligible for free movement within Greece?
No, US citizens and green card holders are not eligible for free movement within Greece. According to the Greek government, all citizens of foreign countries traveling to Greece are required to obtain a visa prior to entry, regardless of their nationality, the purpose of their trip, or their length of stay.6. Is there a specific period of time that US citizens and green card holders can stay in Greece?
Yes, US citizens and green card holders can stay in Greece for up to 90 days within a 6 month period without needing a visa.7. Can US citizens and green card holders apply for permanent residency in Greece?
Yes, US citizens and green card holders may apply for permanent residency in Greece. Eligibility requirements are based on several factors, such as whether the applicant is a family member of an EU citizen, a refugee or an asylum seeker, or a student. To apply, applicants must provide evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves and any dependents, health insurance coverage, a valid passport, and other documentation.8. What are the requirements for US citizens and green card holders to obtain permanent residency in Greece?
In order to obtain permanent residency in Greece, US citizens and green card holders must apply for an EU long-term resident permit. This permit requires applicants to provide proof of identity, residence, and sufficient financial resources to support their stay in Greece. Applicants must also be able to demonstrate knowledge of the Greek language. The permit is typically valid for five years and renewable every five years provided the applicant continues to meet all the requirements.9. Does Greece have any special programs that benefit US citizens and green card holders?
Yes, Greece does have some special programs that benefit US citizens and green card holders. For instance, US citizens and green card holders may be eligible for the Non-Domestic Tax Status (NDTS) program, which can result in significant tax savings. Additionally, the Greek government has instituted a “Golden Visa” program, which allows US citizens and green card holders to receive a five-year residence permit and visa in exchange for investing €250,000 in real estate.10. Are there any incentives for US citizens and green card holders to invest in Greece businesses or real estate?
Yes, US citizens and green card holders can benefit from several incentives offered by the Greek government, including tax deductions for investments in certain businesses or real estate. These incentives can include tax breaks on income earned from certain investments in Greece, as well as reduced corporate tax rates and exemptions from certain taxes. Additionally, there are a range of investment programs available to US citizens and green card holders, such as the Greek Golden Visa program that provides residence and permanent citizenship to those who invest over €250,000 in real estate.11. Is it necessary for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a residence permit in Greece?
No. US citizens and green card holders do not need a residence permit to stay in Greece for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If they wish to stay for longer, they must apply for a visa or residence permit.12. Are US citizens and green card holders required to pay taxes on income earned from Greece?
Yes, US citizens and green card holders are required to pay taxes on income earned from Greece. This includes wages, self-employment income, rental income, dividends, and any other form of income. Taxpayers should report any foreign income on their US tax returns and pay taxes accordingly.13. Are there any restrictions on ownership of property in Greece for US citizens and green card holders?
Yes. US citizens and green card holders are subject to the same restrictions as Greek citizens on property ownership in Greece. These restrictions include the fact that non-EU citizens cannot own more than 10,000 square meters of agricultural land, and cannot own more than three properties in Greece. Additionally, US citizens and green card holders are subject to a long list of additional rules and regulations related to the acquisition of Greek property.14. What type of visas do US citizens and green card holders need to enter Greece?
US citizens and green card holders need to obtain a short-stay Schengen visa to enter Greece.15. Is there a dedicated immigration office or agency that deals with legal matters related to US citizens and green card holders in Greece?
No, there is no dedicated immigration office or agency that deals with legal matters related to US citizens and green card holders in Greece. However, the US Embassy in Athens can provide assistance with immigration issues. Additionally, the Greek government has established a General Secretariat for Immigration Policy which provides information and advice on immigration issues.16. Does the government of Greece provide any support services for US citizens and green card holders such as legal aid or translation services?
The Greek government does not provide legal aid or translation services to U.S. citizens or green card holders. However, the American Embassy in Athens can provide assistance with such matters. The Embassy also has a list of local lawyers that may be able to provide legal advice and services.17. What is the process for applying for citizenship in Greece for US Citizens and Green Card Holders?
US Citizens and Green Card Holders can apply for citizenship in Greece through naturalization. In order to become a naturalized citizen, applicants must have resided in Greece continuously for at least seven years, have a clean criminal record and be of legal age. Additionally, applicants must prove that they are proficient in Greek language and culture, pass a Greek history and culture test and demonstrate that they have the financial means to support themselves. Finally, applicants must take an oath of allegiance to the Greek Constitution and provide evidence of suitable accommodation in Greece.18. Are there any educational opportunities available for the children of US Citizens and Green Card Holders living in Greece?
Yes, there are educational opportunities available for the children of US Citizens and Green Card Holders living in Greece. The American College of Greece (ACG) in Athens is an accredited U.S. college that provides a liberal arts education and offers degree programs. It is also possible to enroll in some public and private schools in Greece that offer an American-style curriculum. Additionally, homeschooling is allowed in Greece as long as the student follows the requirements of the Greek Ministry of Education.19. What is the process for registering a business in Greece as a US Citizen or Green Card Holder?
To register a business in Greece as a US Citizen or Green Card Holder, the following steps must be taken:1. Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN): This must be applied for with the tax office in the jurisdiction where the business will be located.
2. Choose a legal form for the business: Different types of companies can be registered, including Limited Liability Companies (LLC), General Partnerships (GP), and Sole Proprietorships (SP).
3. Prepare a Business Plan: A comprehensive business plan should be created that outlines the business’s purpose, goals, and strategies.
4. Register with the Greek Company Register: The owner must register with the Company Register in order to receive a registration number and launch the company.
5. Obtain Permits and Approvals: Depending on the type of business, permits and/or approvals may be required from other state authorities.
6. Open a Bank Account: A Greek bank account must be opened in order to manage the company’s finances.
7. Apply for VAT Registration: All businesses must register for VAT in order to comply with Greek tax law.
8. Hire Employees: After hiring employees, the necessary paperwork must be completed and submitted to the Labor Inspectorate.
9. Keep Accurate Records: It is necessary to keep accurate records of all financial transactions in order to comply with Greek tax law.