Residence and formalities for students in Europe

EU/EEA and Swiss citizens don't need a visa – you enter with an ID card or passport. If you stay longer than 3 months, EU rules require you to register your residence with the authority responsible for your place of residence. Ask your university's international office about the current procedure. You will also need a Greek tax number (AFM), for example when renting a flat or signing a work contract.

Students from outside the EU/EEA need a national (type D) visa for studies from the Greek embassy or consulate in their country before they travel, and then a residence permit for studies in Greece. You will need, among other things, an acceptance letter from a Greek higher education institution recognised by the Ministry of Education, proof that you have enough money to support yourself, proof that you have paid your fees (if your programme charges them) and health insurance. The residence permit is usually issued for one year and renewed each year (a permit for the whole programme is also possible); the fee is €150 a year. The embassy or consulate will give you the full list of documents and the amount of funds you must show.

Health insurance: if you are insured in another EU country, bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Students from outside the EU/EEA must have health insurance for the whole period of their studies.