Greece: New changes in Immigration law -February 2026

Dear Immigration friends,

Following our updates regarding changes in Immigration Law in Greece, a new immigration law came into effect on 6th February 2026, so the framework is still very fresh. We are currently awaiting the relevant implementing guidance (document lists, procedural clarifications, processing steps, etc.), which should be published shortly.

Summary of the New Immigration Law -procedures we handle-basic points

1. Initial Permit Duration and Renewals

• Special-purpose permits (e.g., EU Blue Card) and dependent work permits can now initially be issued for 3 years at initial grant, instead of 2 years as previously.

• Renewal applications can now be submitted up to 3 months after the permit expires (previously 1 month).

2. Talent and Tech Visa, Entry of Specialized Personnel

• Talent Visa:
  Third nationals with high-level academic qualifications (Master’s, PhD, Postdoc) may enter for job search or professional activity.

  • Issued national entry visa for 12 months.

  • Can be converted into a Blue Card residence permit if the eligibility requirements are met.

• Tech Visa:
  Applies to third nationals employed in registered start-up companies.

  • Issued national entry visa for 12 months with immediate work access.

  • The third national cannot change employer without consent.

  • In case of contract termination, the third national must leave Greece immediately.

• Specialized Personnel:
  Specialized technical personnel relocating from a company in a third country to a Greek company for major projects (industrial, technological, pharmaceutical) can obtain a national entry visa for up to 12 months.

  • Required: employer’s certificate, investment exceeding €10,000,000, and project contracts.

  • After entry, third nationals may apply for a Blue Card residence permit or dependent work permit.

4. Minimum Employment Contract Duration for dependent work

• Initial applications for dependent long term work permits can take place from now on even with a minimum work contract duration of 6 months (before it was 1 year).

5. Unemployment Period

• During the initial permit: unemployment allowed up to 3 months.

• After 2 years of residence: unemployment allowed up to 6 months.

• Exceptionally, it can be extended in case of force majeure, with supporting documentation.

6. Change of Purpose of Stay

• In some cases and when the individual holds a specific type of permit, no new visa is required to change the purpose of permit (which was a requirement within the existing law).

• The change can be made within Greece, provided the individual is already legally resident.

7. Conversion of Z Visa to Residence Permit

• Holders of Z category national visas can convert their visa into a residence permit without leaving Greece.

Please contact us anytime; we are in communication with Greek authorities and are able to provide updates.