In February 2026, Greece enacted Law 5275/2026, one of the most significant reforms of Greek immigration law in recent years. By transposing Directive (EU) 2024/1233, it introduces a modern and more flexible framework for the entry and residence of third-country nationals in Greece, with the aim of promoting legal migration and meeting the needs of the labor market.
The most significant changes concern the following:
- Issuance of a single residence and work permit
The new Law establishes a single application procedure for the issuance of a single permit to non-EU citizens, establishing uniform rights for legally employed workers. This will reduce the administrative burden and speed up the processing of applications, while also strengthening the legal protection of workers.
Specifically, amendments are being introduced to the minimum requirements for the recruitment of third-country nationals for employment, which are directly linked to the employment contract submitted by the employer as part of the application process, as well as to the possibility of changing employers under specific conditions.
- Administrative Improvements
a. A system is established for the automatic allocation of both initial applications and renewal applications to the competent regional directorates, regardless of the applicant’s place of residence, with the aim of reducing backlogs and expediting processing.
b. A 3-month grace period is introduced from the expiration of the permit (instead of the one-month period previously in effect), subject to an administrative fine.
c. For residence permits with a nominal duration of at least three (3) years, it is stipulated that upon issuance, a minimum remaining validity period of two (2) years from the date of the relevant decision must be ensured.
d. In cases of pending renewal applications from 2022 concerning work, provision of services, or family reunification, it is provided that holders of temporary residence permits, provided they do not pose a threat to public order and security, will receive a residence permit valid for two (2) years.
e. The definition of a family member is expanded to include the applicant’s adult children who lack legal capacity.
- Changes to existing categories of residence permits
a. Digital Nomads (Z.1): Digital nomads can no longer enter the country with a Type C national entry visa or a visa waiver to immediately apply for a residence permit. Obtaining a long-term national entry visa is mandatory as the first step.
b. Highly Skilled Employment (E.1): The validity period of the Blue Card is extended to 3 years instead of 2.
c. Dependent Employment (E.4): Annual admission quotas will now set maximum positions per employment sector instead of for a specific specialty, as was previously the case. An increase in quotas of up to 15% is also provided for in cases of urgent need (up from 10% previously), and eligible third countries are specified with specific quotas per country of origin. Legal entities or investment vehicles may receive approval for up to 500 third-country nationals per project for public works, strategic investments, or projects of particular importance.
At the same time, licensed Temporary Employment Agencies with a minimum share capital of €1,000,000 may recruit workers as direct employers for the purpose of further leasing them to indirect employers, subject to certain conditions.
- New categories of residence permits
a. Specialized Technical Staff of Third-Country Companies (Z.13): For third-country nationals transferred from a company established in a third country to Greece under a contract with a domestic company for the construction and operation of industrial, technological, pharmaceutical, or other infrastructure—provided that the investment amount exceeds €10,000,000—a 12-month national entry visa is granted.
b. Employees of Start-up Companies (Tech Visa – Z.13A): Third-country nationals who wish to enter the country as employees exclusively of companies registered in the National Registry of Start-up Companies (“ Elevate Greece”), are granted a national entry and residence visa valid for twelve (12) months (“Tech Visa”). These citizens may be accompanied by their family members. Changing employers is not permitted. Before its expiration, the third-country national may apply for a “E.1” residence permit.
c. Talent Visa (Z.15): Highly educated candidates are granted a 12-month national entry visa for the purpose of seeking employment or establishing a business in Greece. Proof of sufficient financial resources is required, and holders have the option, before its expiration, to switch to an appropriate category of residence permit.
- Changes Regarding Education and Academic Careers
Under the new Law, third-country nationals who have been accepted as visiting professors at Higher Education Institutions or Legal Entities of University Education in Greece for a period of up to one (1) year, to obtain from the competent Greek consular authority a national entry visa valid for up to twelve (12) months. This visa allows them to reside in Greece exclusively for this specific purpose (residence permit type “Z.14”). The new Law stipulates that study permits now cover the entire duration of the study program, while separate permits are provided for vocational training and college studies. Holders are permitted to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. A one-year permit is also granted after completion of studies, allowing graduates and researchers to seek employment or start a business in Greece.
Law 5275/2026 opens new pathways for those wishing to live and work in Greece. However, these opportunities only have real value when they are used correctly and at the right time. While procedures may now be more streamlined, the right guidance is what makes the difference between delays and a successful relocation.
If you are considering your next step in Greece, now is the time to move forward with confidence and strategy. Contact us for personalized support and let us help you turn these new possibilities into real opportunities.