Athens, the capital of Greece, ranks as one of the top destinations globally for remote workers, a new study has revealed. This study was conducted by WorkMotion, a prominent global human resources platform.
Among eighty-five cities worldwide, the Greek capital ranks seventeenth, trailing Budapest and Oslo. Ahead are Wellington and Bangkok. Leading the list are Barcelona, Dubai, Prague, Madrid, and Melbourne.
The study assessed several key aspects for remote workers, covering institutional framework availability for remote work visas, infrastructure quality, security, health system access, real estate availability, transportation, taxation, and social security contributions. Additionally, it examined the costs of basic necessities such as food and energy.
Athens has earned accolades for its lifestyle offerings for remote workers, encompassing sightseeing and a vibrant nightlife. The city is also held in high esteem for its commendable transportation infrastructure and efficient healthcare system. Notably, the introduction of the digital nomad visa in 2021 contributed significantly to Athens’ growing appeal as a remote work destination.
Athens has displayed affordability in rental costs and basic living expenses, yet the study highlighted challenges concerning taxation and social security. Despite its favorable overall ranking, Athens was positioned at sixty-third place in this specific area.
How Remote Workers Can Become Digital Nomads in Greece
The Greek Digital Nomad Visa was introduced by the Greek government in the summer of 2021. It allows remote workers and online entrepreneurs to reside and work in Greece for up to two years.
Applicants, including non-EU citizens, are required to meet specific criteria for the visa, such as having a monthly income of at least €3,500 and providing proof of remote work. Those bringing along a spouse and/or one dependent must have a monthly income of €4,200.
To obtain the visa, individuals should submit their application in person at a Greek consulate or embassy. Successful applicants must then apply for a residency permit upon arrival to Greece.
The visa, initially valid for one year, is extendable for an additional twelve months. Successful applicants are required to adhere to specific regulations, including providing a valid passport, a clean criminal record, and proof of health insurance.
The City’s Strong Position Since 2021
In July 2021, on-demand housing platform “Nestpick” released its study results, ranking Athens thirty-first out of seventy-five cities worldwide in terms of attractive destinations for digital nomads.
Athens has performed well in various areas such as equality, safety, and healthcare. It also has a reasonable cost of living. However, there is a need for improvement in certain aspects such as “culture and leisure” and “remote work infrastructure.”
At the time, in speaking to Greek Reporter, local remote work industry experts commented on the importance of fostering a shift in business culture and actively promoting the distinct digital nomad lifestyle.
Among the rest of the cities making up the full list are New York in USA, Paris in France and Medellin in Colombia.
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