Why you should relocate to Athens!
Endless sunshine, ancient stories, and a vibrant melting pot of cultures, we can’t blame you if you are thinking about relocating to beautiful Athens, Greece. A city that effortlessly balances history and modernity, making it one of our favorite places to live and work.
Whether you are searching for jobs in Athens or searching for information before relocating to Athens, we've got you covered! 👇
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Fun facts about Athens✨
Did you know that Athens hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896? 🏅 This proud tradition continues, as Athens has become a vibrant sports hub, hosting various international athletic events throughout the year.
Did you know that Athens is home to the spectacular Acropolis? 🏛️ A UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have the possibility to explore architectural wonders such as the Temple of Athena Nike and Parthenon. 🤩
Did you know that Athens is the birthplace of Democracy? 🤯 Yuup, and the word - Democracy - means the power of the people. Unfortunately, not everyone participated in the democracy of ancient Athens as it was reserved for only adult male citizens over the age of 20.
Reasons to relocate to Athens 🏆
1) Cultural Wonderland⚡
From mythical legends of gods and goddesses to the birthplace of democracy, Athens offers a rich history for anyone interested in a journey through time.
2) Endless sunshine 🌞
Athens has the typical Mediterranean climate, warm summers and mild winters. With over 250 days of sunshine annually, you will definitely not miss the Nordic winter.
3) Stunning beaches 🌴
Golden sand, crystal-clear turquoise water and Mediterranean vibes, beach lovers will without a doubt enjoy Athens.
4) Great food! 😍
If you love to eat great food then Athens and Greece is a gastronomic paradise! From tasty moussaka and creamy tzatziki to sweet baklava, trust us when we say, your taste buds will thank you.
5) Vibrant nightlife!💃
They say Athens comes alive after dark. From trendy clubs and rooftop bars to traditional restaurants and cozy cafes, the city offers a vibrant nightlife scene for everyone, no matter preference.
6) Welcoming expat community! 🌍
Greece’s geographical location makes it the perfect spot for expats interested in experiencing the Mediterranean lifestyle. Athens is therefore filled with expats from all over the world which makes it easier to network, meet and connect with like-minded people.
7) They speak English! 🙌
English is widely spoken in Athens, which makes it easier for you to communicate and adapt. We do recommend picking up a few Greek words along the way. The locals love it when you try to speak their language.
8) Affordable Living 🍻
Once you relocate to Athens, you will notice that the city offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other European capitals. From accommodation to dining out, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly options that allow you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Employment opportunities in Athens 🥳
Now, let's talk about the employment scene in Athens. ✨ The city has a thriving job market and presents several opportunities with numerous multinational companies and startups for expats and Nordic language speakers interested in relocating to Athens. 😍
As an expat in Athens you are able to find job opportunities in these booming industries:
Customer experience 🎰 - support, technical support and service
Finance 💰 - banking, crypto, insurance, and financial services
Tech 👩💻 - software engineering, cybersecurity and data analytics
Tourism 😎 - event management, tour operations and hospitality
Combining your Norwegian, Finnish, Danish or Swedish + English language skills, with relevant qualifications, will definitely make you a popular candidate in Athens’s growing job scene. 🌟
Jobs in Athens ✨
Jobs in Athens ✨
The cost of living in Athens 🤑
To help you understand the cost of living in Athens, we have shared numbers provided by Numbeo. We always recommend you to have a look at the cost of living numbers when you are moving to another country.
*These numbers are estimated numbers and can change due to various factors.
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant 13.00 € 🍣
Cappuccino (regular) 3.09 € ☕ (Restaurant)
Water (0.33 liter bottle) 0.50 € 💧 (Restaurant)
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter) 1.39 € 🍺
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) 7.00 € 🍷
Water (1.5 liter bottle) 0.82 € 💧
Rent a month an apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre 497.69 € or Outside of Centre 444.40 € 🏠
One-way Ticket (Local Transport) 1.20 € 🚎
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) 0.78 € 🚕
Gasoline (1 liter) 2.18 € ⛽
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult 33.71 € 💪
Monthly Internet (60+ Mbps, Unlimited Data) 31.84 € 🌐
Map of Athens📍
Admin work you should know before relocating to Athens
Are you feeling as excited as we are about relocating to Athens? 😜 Now, let's address the practical side of relocating to Athens but before doing so, have in mind that the necessary admin work is usually arranged by the employer 🙌
As Greece is part of the European Union, it is not difficult for those already living in Europe to move here. You do not need a visa or a work permit, but you must apply for a registration certificate or ID card if you plan to stay longer than 3 months (90 days).
This certificate is considered an adequate form of identification when living in the Greek country.
The application procedure for EU citizens to obtain this certificate is as follows:
Contact the nearest police station or a police station with a foreign department in the area where you live to make an appointment for your application.
To make an application, you must have the following documents:
Copy of your passport
4 passport photos
Proof of address (e.g. rental contract, utility bill, statement from the tax office...)
Proof of medical coverage (could be your EU health card or private health insurance)
Your work contract or proof of employment
In addition to the following items, you must complete the application form available at the same police station.
At your appointment, a police officer will review your documentation, briefly discuss what you are doing in Greece and give you a blue receipt showing that you have applied for the certificate. Depending on where you live and which office you visited, your permit will be ready a few days or weeks after your appointment.
Visa and Work Permit
To stay in Greece for longer than 3 months (90 days) you need to have a long-stay visa (D Visa). However, not everyone needs a visa to move to Greece.
EU/EEA and Switzerland citizens do not need a long-stay visa to move to Greece.
Non-EU/EEA and Switzerland citizens need to obtain a long-stay visa and a residence permit to be allowed to stay in the Greek territory for a more extended period.
How to obtain the Visa/Work Permit in Athens
Check the Greek embassy or consulate website in your home country for specific requirements and application procedures.
Gather the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, employment contract, proof of accommodation, and financial means.
Complete the visa application form accurately and provide all required information.
Submit your application along with the supporting documents to the Greek embassy or consulate.
Pay the applicable fees and wait for the processing of your visa and work permit application.
Once approved, you will receive your visa and work permit, allowing you to legally live and work in Greece.
Residence permit
Upon arrival, and before your visa expires, you must apply for a residence permit as an employed worker. All applications for residence permits are submitted at the one-stop-shops of the Decentralized Administration.
When you apply, and if all the necessary documents are submitted, you are issued a certificate which is valid for one year and during its validity you reside legally in the country. If your application is still pending after one year, a new certificate will be issued and you will be informed on the reasons of the delay.
The competent Department of the Decentralized Administration examines your application and issues a residence permit valid for two years.
TIN/AFM Number
In addition to your residence permit, it is equally important to apply for both AFM and AMKA number:
1. The AFM number (Arithmo Forologiko Mitro).
This is a 9-digit number also know as TIN. It’s your personal tax identification number (TIN) and you need it to work in Greece, pay taxes, open a bank account and for other formal procedures. The application is relatively easy and is done at a local tax office (called "Eforia").
The documents usually required to obtain this number are:
Valid passport, a copy of your employment contract, and proof of address.
Make sure you also fill out the necessary forms for obtaining a TIN/AFM Number.
2. AMKA (Arithmos Mitroou Koinonikis Asfalisis)
This is an 11-digit number and it’s your Greek social security number that gives you access to welfare services in the country (such as health care and unemployment benefits, etc.). You can apply for this number at a KEP (Citizen Services Center) office or IKA/EFKA (Social Security Institute), make sure you bring with your certificate of registration and passport.
Note! Some of these procedures are free while others may include a smaller cost.
*The information can change due to various factors, make sure you stay updated through the government pages and embassies.
** We know it may look like a lot of work but if you are relocating due to a job offer, the hiring companies will normally help you out with these steps. Just make sure you ask them about this process during the interview and if it’s relevant to you.
Checklist before relocating to Athens
Research and Plan:
Explore and gather information about Athens, its culture, lifestyle, and cost of living.
Determine your reasons for relocating and set clear goals for your move.
Research job opportunities, housing options, and healthcare services in Athens.
Polish your CV and interview skills.
Visa and Work Permit:
Check the specific visa and work permit requirements based on your nationality.
Contact the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country for accurate information and guidance.
Prepare the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, employment contract, and proof of accommodation.
Finances:
Evaluate your financial situation and create a budget for your relocation.
Consider the cost of living in Athens, including housing, utilities, transportation, and daily expenses.
Set up a bank account in Greece and explore international money transfer options.
Housing:
Start your housing search early and consider factors like location, budget, and amenities.
Utilize online platforms, local rental agencies, and expat communities for finding accommodation.
Arrange temporary housing if needed, such as hotels or short-term rentals, while searching for a permanent home.
Health Insurance:
Obtain comprehensive health insurance coverage that is valid in Greece.
Familiarize yourself with the Greek healthcare system and find a local doctor or clinic for regular check-ups.
Language and Culture:
Learn some basic Greek phrases to communicate with locals and navigate daily life.
Embrace the Greek culture, customs, and etiquette to integrate into the local community.
Attend language classes or use language-learning apps to enhance your Greek language skills.
Networking and Expat Community:
Join expat communities and social groups in Athens to meet new people and build a support network.
Participate in networking events, language exchange programs, and cultural activities.
Connect with fellow expats who can provide valuable insights and advice on living in Athens.
Transportation:
Familiarize yourself with the public transportation system in Athens, including buses, metro, and trams.
Consider obtaining an international driving license if you plan to drive in Greece.
Explore alternative transportation options like biking or walking for shorter distances.
Explore and Enjoy:
Take time to explore Athens' rich history, landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Try Greek cuisine, visit local markets, and embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Engage in cultural activities, festivals, and events to immerse yourself in the local experience.
Remember, relocating to Athens can be an exciting adventure, but it's essential to be prepared and organized. 🔑 This checklist will help you stay on track and ensure a smooth transition to your new life in Athens, Greece. 😍 Best of luck with your relocation!
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