Who can obtain a residence permit for studies?
A residence permit for studies may be granted to third-country nationals who have been accepted by a recognised Greek higher education institution for the purpose of attending a study programme.
This may include, among others, undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes, subject to the applicable legal requirements.
As a general rule, third-country nationals residing outside Greece must first obtain the required national visa (Visa D) for studies before entering Greece. Following their lawful entry into Greece, they may apply for the relevant residence permit.
Main requirements
Under Law 5038/2023, applicants must, among other requirements:
- have been accepted by a Greek higher education institution;
- demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover their living expenses;
- provide evidence of the payment of any required registration or tuition fees, where applicable;
- have the required health insurance coverage; and
- meet the general requirements established by Greek immigration legislation.
The required financial resources are currently set at a minimum of EUR 650 per month for study purposes. The availability of sufficient funds may be demonstrated, among other means, through bank deposits, bank transfers, scholarships or other appropriate evidence.
Required documents
The exact documentation depends on the individual circumstances of each applicant. In general, the application may require:
- a valid passport;
- the national Visa D for studies;
- a certificate of acceptance or enrolment from the educational institution;
- evidence of sufficient financial resources;
- evidence of payment of any required registration or tuition fees;
- proof of health insurance coverage;
- the applicable administrative fees; and
- any additional documents required under the applicable legislation.
The supporting documents required for the initial issuance and renewal of residence permits are determined by the applicable ministerial decisions and the Migration Code.
Duration of the residence permit
The residence permit for studies is classified as type H.1.
Under Article 107 of Law 5038/2023, the residence permit is generally valid for one year and may be renewed for an equal period, provided that the relevant legal requirements continue to be met. Where the duration of the study programme is less than one year, the residence permit may be issued for the duration of the programme.
The law also provides the possibility, under certain conditions, of applying for a residence permit with a validity period corresponding to the maximum duration of the relevant study programme, subject to the submission of the required confirmation from the educational institution.
From university admission to residence permit
For a third-country national residing outside Greece, the process generally involves the following stages:
1. Selection of a study programme Selection of the appropriate Greek university and study programme.
2. University admission Completion of the admission procedure and obtaining the relevant acceptance or enrolment documentation.
3. Application for a national Visa D Following admission, the applicant applies for the required national visa for studies through the competent Greek consular authority.
4. Entry into Greece Once the Visa D has been issued, the student may enter Greece lawfully for the purpose of studies.
5. Application for a residence permit Following entry into Greece, the student submits an application for the residence permit for studies before the competent authority.