How does Student Residence Permit work in Greece, and who qualifies?

The Student Residence Permit is for non-EU students enrolled in a full-time course at a recognised Greek higher-education institution. You will need an acceptance or registration certificate, proof of sufficient funds for living expenses, health insurance covering all risks, a clean criminal record and a valid passport. The permit costs EUR 150 per year of its validity.

During your studies you can take part-time work. However, one important limitation sets Greece apart from several other EU countries: it does not currently offer a post-study job-search permit, and a student permit cannot be converted in-country into a work permit.

That means non-EU graduates who want to work in Greece generally need to apply for the appropriate work category — such as the EU Blue Card or the employed-worker permit — from a Greek consulate abroad after finishing their studies. It is worth factoring this limitation into your plans before choosing to study in Greece. Fees and funding requirements are reviewed periodically, so confirm current figures on the official portals, and ACME can help you plan the route from study to a future work permit.