How Pakistanis Can Apply for Greece Digital Nomad Visa in 2025

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa, also called the Remote Work Visa, is a special visa that allows non-EU citizens—including Pakistanis—to live legally in Greece while working remotely for companies, clients, or businesses based outside the country. This visa was first introduced in 2021, and since then, it has become one of the most attractive options for digital nomads worldwide.

The program is popular because of its simple requirements, tax benefits, and access to the Schengen Area, which lets visa holders travel freely across 27 European countries.

As of August 2025, the Greece Digital Nomad Visa is still active. While a few minor changes have been made in the application process, the overall eligibility criteria remain the same. Importantly, applicants can still apply from inside Greece, even though there were earlier proposals to limit this option.

For Pakistani freelancers, IT professionals, writers, consultants, and business owners, this visa is a golden opportunity. It allows you to enjoy Mediterranean life—sunny beaches, historical cities, and rich culture—without leaving your career behind.

Another big advantage for Pakistanis is that Greece’s cost of living is much lower than many Western European countries. On average, living in Greece can be up to 50% cheaper compared to France, Germany, or the Netherlands. This means that remote salaries from Pakistan or international clients can go much further here, especially when it comes to rent, groceries, and coworking spaces.

This complete guide explains everything Pakistani applicants need to know: eligibility, requirements, application steps, costs, benefits, challenges, and long-term opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

The visa is open to all non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, which means Pakistanis qualify automatically. Applicants must meet specific professional and financial standards.

Key points:

• Nationality: Must not belong to the EU, EEA, or Switzerland. Pakistan qualifies.
• Age: At least 18 years old.
• Employment Status: You must work remotely for an employer or clients outside Greece. You cannot take a job inside Greece or compete with Greek businesses. Freelancers, salaried employees, and self-employed professionals all qualify.
• Income Requirement: At least €3,500 per month (≈ PKR 1,050,000–1,100,000) after taxes.
  • Add 20% (€700) for a spouse or partner.
  • Add 15% (€525) for each dependent child.
• Good Record: No history of overstaying visas in Greece or the Schengen Zone.
• Health & Character: Must have valid health insurance and no criminal record.

Note: Pakistanis require a visa to enter Greece, so most apply from home via the Greek Embassy in Islamabad. However, those already in Greece (for tourism or business) may apply directly for a residence permit.

Required Documents

To apply, Pakistanis need to prepare and translate documents into English or Greek. Documents must also be apostilled for international validity.

1. Visa Application Form – Available from the Greek Embassy or VFS Global.
2. Passport – Valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay with two blank pages.
3. Photos – Two recent passport-sized (3.5×4.5 cm).
4. Proof of Remote Employment – Contract, freelancer agreements, or business registration (outside Greece). Employer or client letter confirming remote work.
5. Income Proof – Bank statements, tax returns, or salary slips showing income of at least €3,500 monthly.
6. Health Insurance – Policy covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies. Companies like SafetyWing and Allianz are popular.
7. Criminal Record Certificate – From Pakistani authorities (police or NADRA), apostilled.
8. Accommodation Proof – Rental contract, hotel booking, or Airbnb confirmation for at least 1–3 months.
9. Declaration Form – Signed statement confirming you will not work for Greek companies.
10. Family Documents (if applicable) – Marriage certificate, birth certificates for children, all apostilled.

Pakistani applicants can submit documents through VFS Global offices in Islamabad or Karachi, which forward them to the Greek Embassy.

Application Process

The process usually takes 10–30 working days.

1. Prepare Documents: Gather and translate all required papers. Get apostilles from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2. Book Appointment: Through the Greek Embassy in Islamabad or VFS Global. Waiting time: 2–4 weeks.
3. Submit Application: Visit in person, bring originals and copies, pay fees, and give biometrics.
4. Decision: The Greek Ministry of Migration reviews the case. Results are shared by email or phone.
5. Visa Issuance: If approved, you receive a Type D (long-stay) visa.
6. Arrival in Greece: Register at the local immigration office within 30 days to get your residence permit card.
7. Alternative (for those in Greece): Apply directly for a 2-year residence permit without leaving the country.

Common mistakes: Missing apostilles, incomplete income proof, or insufficient insurance coverage often lead to delays or rejections.

Costs

Applying for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa involves some expenses:

• Visa Fee: €75 (≈ PKR 22,500).
• Family Fees: €150 (≈ PKR 45,000) per additional member.
• Other Costs:
  • Health insurance: €50–150/month.
  • Translations & apostilles: PKR 5,000–20,000.
  • Travel to embassy: PKR 5,000–10,000.
  • Residence permit card: €16.

Total estimated cost for a solo applicant: €200–500 (≈ PKR 60,000–150,000) excluding living expenses.

Benefits for Pakistanis

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy Greek beaches, islands, and lifestyle while earning remotely.
• Schengen Travel: Visa-free trips across 27 EU countries.
• Tax Benefits: Stay less than 183 days = no Greek taxes. Long-term residents may get a 50% tax cut for up to 7 years.
• Bring Your Family: Spouse and children get dependent permits.
• Affordable Lifestyle: Average monthly living costs = €800–1,500 (≈ PKR 240,000–450,000).
• Path to PR and Citizenship: After 5 years of residence, apply for permanent residency; after 7 years, apply for citizenship (requires Greek language/culture test).
• Cultural Comforts: Halal food, mosques, and Pakistani communities are present in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.

Challenges to Expect

• Language Barrier: Greek is dominant; English mostly in tourist hubs.
• Bureaucracy: Paperwork can be slow and frustrating.
• Cultural Differences: Hot summers, different work pace.
• Inflation: Costs rising slowly, though still cheaper than Western Europe.
• Homesickness: Join Pakistani expat groups on Facebook, WhatsApp, and Reddit for support.

Extensions & Long-Term Stay

• Extension: Apply for a 2-year residence permit before your visa expires.
• Renewal: Can be renewed every 2 years if conditions are met.
• Permanent Residency: Eligible after 5 years (must live at least 183 days each year).
• Citizenship: Eligible after 7 years with successful language/culture exams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the visa available for Pakistanis in 2025?
   Yes, fully open.
2. Can I bring my family?
   Yes, with higher income proof.
3. Do I need Greek language skills?
   No, but basic knowledge helps daily life.
4. What if my visa is rejected?
   Correct issues (usually income proof or incomplete documents) and reapply.
5. Do I need COVID-related documents?
   No extra requirements as of 2025.
6. Can I work for Greek clients?
   No, this violates visa rules.

Official sources: Greek Ministry of Migration (migration.gov.gr) or the Greek Embassy in Pakistan.

With this visa, Pakistanis can explore life in one of the most beautiful countries in Europe while continuing their careers remotely. For freelancers, IT workers, and entrepreneurs, Greece offers not just a place to live—but a lifestyle upgrade.

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