January, 12 2022 ( Updated June, 28 2024)
Just like many other countries in the recent past, Greece has also nicely warmed up to the idea of inviting digital nomads with its “Work from Crete” program.
With this huge incentive to move to its largest and most famous island, Greece has opened its borders to remote workers worldwide. And what makes the deal even sweeter is Crete’s digital nomad visa, tax policies and budget-friendly accommodations available just about everywhere in Crete, from the bigger cities like Chania to smaller villages. Below, we have gathered all the information you need about moving to Crete as a digital nomad!
Greece’s “work from Crete” program makes it one of thebest destinations for Digital Nomads in Europe
With successful licensing of digital wallets like Viva e-Wallets and exciting programs like “Work from Crete” that aim to build a solid digital-nomad community on the largest island of Greece, the digital nomad scene in Greece is becoming increasingly vibrant and encouraging! The country has also put in place a fast-track digital nomad visa process and made it especially generous to those coming with families.
Athens: The capital city is a popular destination due to its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and modern amenities. Athens has a growing number of coworking spaces and digital nomad communities.
Thessaloniki: Known for its lively atmosphere and cultural scene, Thessaloniki is another hotspot for digital nomads, offering a range of coworking spaces and events.
Greek Islands: Islands such as Rhodes, Santorini, Crete and Mykonos attract digital nomads looking for picturesque settings and a slower pace of life. But if you ask which Greek island is the best for Digital Nomads? Then it has to be Crete. As well as for its “Work from Crete” program, the largest Greek island, is favored for its natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and affordable living costs. Cities like Chania and Heraklion are popular among digital nomads.
The beautiful purple-pink skies in Chania Old Town
The Digital Nomad Visa for Greece, introduced in 2021, allows non-EU/EEA citizens to live and work remotely in Greece for up to one year, with the option to bring immediate family members. Here's a concise guide on eligibility and application.
- Must not be employed or engaged in business activities within Greece.
- Must have employment or clients outside of Greece.
- Must use technology (internet and laptop) to work remotely.
- Self-employed individuals must provide business details, ensuring the business is not registered in Greece.
- Income requirement for Greece digital nomad visa: you must prove a minimum monthly income of €3,500 after taxes. For a spouse/partner, this increases to €4,200, and for each child, an additional €525 is required.
1. Submission: Apply through the nearest Greek consulate via email or registered letter. The consulate will confirm receipt and status within 10 days.
2. Documents Needed:
- Declaration Letter stating intent for remote work and no engagement with Greek employers.
- Proof of Employment (contract or employer certificate from outside Greece).
- Proof of Sufficient Funds (employment contract, bank account, etc.).
- Greek Digital Nomad Fee (€75 plus €150 for each family member).
- Additional documents: Passport, criminal record certificate, medical certificate, and travel insurance.
3. Approval: Expect feedback within 10 days and the visa issuance within a month.
- If already in Greece, apply for a Digital Nomad Residence Permit through the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum.
- Include all documents required for the visa and proof of accommodation (lease or property contract).
- Permit is valid for 2 years with a €1,000 application fee plus €150 for each family member.
1. Insurance: Have comprehensive international health insurance that meets the requirements of the Alien and Immigration Department.
2. Research: Know nearby hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
3. Language: Learn basic Greek medical terms.
4. Documentation: Keep insurance and ID handy.
Editor’s tip: For personalized consultation, contact “Guide Foreigners” for services, including tax residency, visa application, legal support, and relocation assistance.
We have already hinted at it but here is the full in and out of why Crete is perhaps the best island to move to as a digital nomad.
Ferry services going through the Gramvousa Bay in Crete
If being cut off from the world and living and working in paradise is your ideal life, then Crete is that one destination with truly unique gastronomy that will leave you relishing distinct delicacies every time. At the same time, the island has affordable public transportation to easily move around, multiple connections to the main port of Greece, Port of Piraeus, and an efficient ferry system to soak up the Grecian sun on Santorini, Naxos and Mykonos! With active efforts and a comfy pace of life, Crete is well on its way to being an ideal digital nomad destination. But if that is not enough motivation, here we have a sneak peek of the fantastic nomadic life on Crete!
The beautiful waters of Preveli Beach are perfect for a relaxing soak under the sun
Spending winter in Crete is an excellent choice for escaping the cold. Crete offers sunshine and mild weather, ideal for digital nomads who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, beach lounging, reading in parks, or working from cafes. With 300 days (about 10 months) of sun, Crete is one of Europe's best destinations for year-round excellent weather.
In Crete, the perfect life-work balance fantasy indeed comes true. With the Aegean and Mediterranean Sea softly leaving their traces on pristine shores and a strong coffee culture that keeps the cafes with Wi-Fi open till late hours, such as Starbucks and Nymphes in Chania and Coffee Island in Heraklion, you will achieve what digital nomad life is supposed to while taking care of your well-being.
Enjoy working from cafes like Starbucks in Chania that offers free Wi-Fi and long hours of seating
In popular cities like Rethymnon, Chania and Heraklion you will experience a vibrant change with their shopping streets, cold coffees on the go and coworking spaces! Meanwhile, in remote villages, you can live the authentic Greek life with your free hours spent on the beach or in cosy tavernas where simple gestures like the barista recognising your order will warm your heart and stay on Crete!
Moreover, the island is not only hospitable to an exciting digital nomad life but will leave you spoilt for choice every day with tons of leisure and sports activities in Crete.
Editor’s Tip: Don’t forget to also enjoy relaxing in Crete!
Since the internet is one of the essentials of the digital nomad life, Crete’s digital nomad program seeks to provide high speed 5G internet all over the island and cultivate and create an international network of working professionals through multi-functional co-working spaces on the island.
Compared to other Greek islands and Athens, living in Crete is relatively affordable, with cheaper dining and groceries, especially at local farmers' markets. However, rental prices increase significantly from May to August due to vacation season demand. Our accommodation in Crete are overall quite affordable.
Relax in the charming terrace of this super budget-friendly holiday rental in Heraklion
Cretan cuisine is celebrated for its freshness and flavor, featuring local delicacies, farm-fresh produce, and traditional dishes that highlight the island's rich culinary heritage. For Cretans, food embodies simplicity, sustainability, fresh local produce, tradition, and generosity. In family-owned restaurants, expect generous portions, extra bread, house-made olive oil, complimentary dessert, and raki. Digital nomads who love local delicacies will find Crete a food paradise.
Dakos, a juicy Greek appetizer with tomatoes and myzithra cheese
The Cretan diet features Mediterranean specialties like olives, feta, fish, eggplant, peppers, red meat, and bread. Popular dishes include Dakos salad (rusk bread with tomatoes, myzithra cheese, and herbs), kolokythanthi (stuffed zucchini flowers), Cretan salad, skioufichta (handmade pasta), and boureki (potato and zucchini pie).
Discover the island late into the night with its vibrant evenings expanding into the early hours of the morning
Crete is home to a thriving community of digital nomads, retired expats, and international students, providing ample opportunities to network and make friends from around the world. As a popular tourist destination, English is widely spoken, making it easy and comfortable for digital nomads. Nonetheless, learning a few Greek phrases can add to the fun of living there.
Getting to Crete is easy with two international airports in Chania and Heraklion, plus regular domestic flights to Athens. Aegean Airlines, the largest Greek airline, offers reliable options for both domestic and international flights. Just choose your preferred airport and enjoy a smooth journey to Crete.
To explore Crete's diverse beauty, renting a car is recommended. While buses connect the major towns, having a car allows for flexible travel and access to hidden gems and picturesque villages. Crete's well-maintained roads and scenic routes enhance the driving experience. Renting through Pan Car offers a seamless and flexible service.
In September 2021, Greece passed the digital nomad visa law with a 50% tax break for 7 years for non-EU citizens working remotely from their country with non-Greek companies.
With proper health coverage and preparation, digital nomads can stay comfortably in Greece.
- EU Citizens: Access with European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
- Non-EU Citizens: Need private health insurance or pay out-of-pocket.
- Preferred for Shorter Wait Times: Higher comfort and advanced facilities.
- Insurance: Recommended to have international health insurance for private care.
- Costs: Lower than many Western countries but can be expensive without insurance.
Cradle of one of the oldest civilisations in the world, Greece still holds a strong attraction over travellers and captivates them with its ancient history, blue flag beaches, thrilling sports, scrumptious cuisine and a welcoming cosmopolitan lifestyle. With the new policies in place for Digital Nomads, Crete is well on its way to becoming a top choice!
Inspired to move to Crete? Choose from a wide range of rental homes in Crete, with 10% instant discount on website now!
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