By becoming a citizen of Greece, a person automatically becomes a citizen of the European Union, gaining the opportunity to freely live, work and travel throughout EU territory.
ICTV Facts found out the main ways to obtain Greek citizenship in 2024.
How to obtain citizenship Greece: Main Ways
This status can be obtained in different ways:
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- by birthright;
- process naturalization;
- military service;
- restoration of citizenship (repatriation).
For foreigners, a simplified procedure is provided only for ethnic Greeks. All other applicants must prove their deep integration into Greek society, demonstrate knowledge of the language, culture and laws of the country.
The naturalization process takes at least 7 years. The main law regulating immigration and citizenship in Greece is the Code of Immigration and Social Integration. Greek law allows dual citizenship.
How Ukrainians can obtain Greek citizenship
There are several ways for Ukrainians to obtain Greek citizenship. Each of them has its own characteristics and requirements.
The most common ways to obtain citizenship:
- Marriage to a Greek citizen is the fastest way. If you marry a Greek citizen, you can apply for citizenship in just 3 yearscohabitation. But it is necessary to provide evidence of legal residence in Greece, knowledge of the Greek language and lack of a criminal record.
- Recognition of Greek origin. If you have Greek roots and can prove your origin, you have the right to apply for a simplified procedure for obtaining citizenship.
Additional factors that influence the acquisition of citizenship:
- knowledge of the Greek language is one of the main criteria for obtaining citizenship;
- integration into Greek society, active participation in its life, knowledge of culture and traditions;
- having a criminal record may be an obstacle to obtaining citizenship.
Greek citizenship: how to get it, having work
7 years of legal residence on the basis of a long-term residence permit (LTRP) is required. It is necessary to confirm knowledge of the Greek language at level B1. Demonstration of integration into Greek society is required, for example through participation in public life or employment.
Ways to obtain a residence permit:
- investing a certain amount in real estate, business or government bonds;
- if you have relatives in Greece, you can apply for family reunification;
- having an employment contract with a Greek company.
You can use the citizenship by investment program. Under this program, investors can obtain Greek citizenship by making significant investments in the country's economy.
Currently, you need to purchase real estate worth €250,000 or make a deposit in a Greek bank of €400,000.
