FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ANSWERS TO THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS WE RECEIVE ABOUT GREEK CITIZENSHIP
Can Americans hold dual citizenship in Greece?
Yes. Greece fully allows dual citizenship, and American law doesn’t restrict it.
Do I qualify for Greek dual citizenship?
Direct descendants of Greek citizens are often eligible for citizenship by descent. Those married to Greek citizens (after 3 years) and those with long-term residence may qualify.
How do I apply for dual citizenship in the US?
Apply through your local Greek consulate or embassy if residing in the US. They handle all citizenship applications for Greek diaspora.
For more information, check out our complete guide here on how to apply for Greek citizenship.
How can I get Greek citizenship?
Through descent, marriage to a Greek citizen (after 3 years), naturalization after 7 years’ residence, or investment (Golden Visa after 7 years).
What documents do I need for Greek citizenship?
Documentation includes:
- Birth certificates
- Parents’ birth/marriage certificates
- Valid passport
- Name change documents (if applicable)
For a more in-depth answer, check out our full guide here to apply by descent.
How long does it take to get Greek dual citizenship?
3 months to 3 years, depending on the route. Descent applications are typically the fastest, while naturalization takes the longest.
How much does it cost to get Greek dual citizenship?
Application fees range from €100-700 depending on the route. Additional costs include document translation and certification. There are also costs of certification exams and costs associated with interviews you may need to have with the Greek government—and that all adds up over time.
How can an American get dual citizenship in Greek?
Yes, through the same pathways as other applicants. There’s no special process for Americans or dual citizenship in general.
What qualifies you for dual citizenship with Greece?
Dual citizenship requires these three steps:
- you currently have citizenship in a country that allows dual citizenship
- you gain Greek citizenship (by descent, marriage, or naturalization)
- you do not renounce your citizenship once you become a Greek citizen
Are you a Greek citizen if you are born in Greece?
Not automatically. At least one parent must be Greek, or you must naturalize later. This is because the country uses the principle of jus sanguinis (rule of blood).
How long do you have to live in Greece to become a citizen?
7 years of legal residence for standard naturalization. 3 years if married to a Greek citizen.
Is dual citizenship allowed in Greece?
Yes. Greece fully recognizes dual citizenship.
Does Greece have birthright citizenship?
No. Children born in Greece to non-Greek parents must naturalize.
Does Greece allow triple citizenship?
Yes. Greece doesn’t limit the number of citizenships held.
Can I get Greek citizenship if my child is Greek?
Greece offers relatively accessible citizenship through descent (parents/grandparents), but requires more documentation than some EU countries.
What is the easiest country to get dual citizenship?
Not automatically, but it may help obtain residence permits and eventual naturalization.
Can I live in Greece as an American citizen?
Yes, up to 90 days without a visa. Longer stays require a residence permit or special allowances like the Digital Nomad Visa, which allows you to stay up to one year.
How long can a US citizen live in Greece?
90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. Longer stays require residence permits.
What is the cost of living in Greece?
Generally lower than other Western European countries. Athens and tourist islands are the most expensive, but more out-of-the-way places can offer a very low cost of living.
How can I get permanent residence in Greece?
After 5 years of legal residence with a stable income and integration into Greek society.
How do I establish residency in Greece?
Register with local authorities within the first month. Obtain a residence permit for stays over 90 days.
Is Greece expensive to live in?
It is less expensive than most Western European countries. Major cities and islands cost more than mainland/rural areas.
Can a US citizen work in Greece?
Yes, with an appropriate work visa/permit. Job offers are typically required first.
What is a good salary in Greece?
€20,000-35,000 annually is considered good. A monthly net income of €1,500-2,000 provides comfortable living in most areas.
Can Americans buy property in Greece?
Yes, there are no restrictions except in border regions and some military-sensitive areas.
Can a US citizen retire in Greece?
Yes, with proof of sufficient pension/income and health insurance. Popular retirement destination due to climate and lifestyle.
Does Greece use the euro?
Yes, Greece is part of the Eurozone.
Does Greece require a visa?
US citizens can stay 90 days visa-free. Longer stays require appropriate visas/permits.
