No. The Greece Golden Visa does not give the right to work in Greece, either as an employee or as a self-employed person.
You can still set up a company in Greece, become a shareholder and sit on the board as a non-executive member. You cannot work for the company or act as its manager or legal representative.
These rules are stated in Circular 1/2026 of the Ministry of Migration and Asylum, issued on 22 April 2026. For the other conditions, see Greece Golden Visa requirements.
What can you do in Greece with a Golden Visa?
| Activity | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Salaried work for a Greek employer | Not allowed | You must switch to a permit that allows work |
| Self-employment in Greece | Not allowed | The Golden Visa gives no self-employment rights |
| Setting up a company in Greece | Allowed | As long as you do not work for it |
| Being a shareholder | Allowed | You can exercise shareholder rights |
| Non-executive board member | Allowed | Without day-to-day management duties |
| Manager or legal representative | Not allowed | Includes executive board membership |
| Rental income from your property | Allowed | Long-term rentals only; taxed in Greece |
| Remote work for a foreign employer | Ask a lawyer | Staying over 183 days a year makes you a Greek tax resident |
Source: Ministry of Migration and Asylum Circular 1/2026 (22 April 2026). The same rules apply to family members included in the Golden Visa.
Can Golden Visa Holders Work as Employees in Greece?
No. The Golden Visa does not give access to the Greek labour market. To work for a Greek company or employer, you must switch to a residence permit that allows work. Working without the right permit can lead to the permit being revoked.
Can I Be Self-Employed in Greece?
No. Circular 1/2026 states clearly that the Golden Visa does not allow self-employment either. To work in Greece on your own account, for example as a doctor, lawyer, consultant or shop owner, you need a different residence permit.
Can I Set Up a Company in Greece with a Golden Visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders can set up a company in Greece and become shareholders. They can exercise shareholder rights, such as receiving dividends, and can serve as non-executive board members.
The limits are:
- you cannot work for the company
- you cannot be its legal representative or manager
- you cannot be an executive board member
A manager with the right to work in Greece must run the company day to day.
What If I Want to Run My Own Business?
To run your company yourself or work in Greece on your own account, you need to switch to a residence permit that allows work. You can do this instead of the Golden Visa or after it. Foreigners who are legally resident in Greece can apply to move to another permit category if they meet its conditions.
The options are:
- Independent economic activity permit: for entrepreneurs who will run their own business in Greece.
- Employment permit: with a job offer from a Greek employer.
- Digital nomad permit: for people who work remotely for employers or clients outside Greece.
Each permit has its own requirements. Talk to your lawyer before applying to see which one fits you.
Can I Keep Working Remotely for My Job Abroad?
The Golden Visa does not require you to give up your job or company abroad. You do not need to live in Greece to keep the card, either. Most investors keep working in their home country and visit Greece for holidays or short stays.
Living in Greece and working remotely for a foreign employer is a different matter. If you stay in Greece for more than 183 days a year, you become a Greek tax resident. In that case, a digital nomad permit may suit you better. Talk to your lawyer and tax adviser.
What Income Can I Earn with a Golden Visa?
- Rental income: A property bought for the Golden Visa can only be let on long-term leases. Short-term rentals such as Airbnb are banned. Rental income is taxed in Greece. For details, see Greece Golden Visa tax rules.
- Shareholder income: Dividends from Greek companies.
- Income from abroad: Salary, business and investment income from your home country.
Can Family Members Work?
The same rule applies to the spouse, children and parents included in the Golden Visa. They have no right to work in Greece, either as employees or as self-employed people. A family member who wants to work must switch to a permit that allows work.
Children who turn 21 can move to a separate residence permit valid until age 24. This permit works as a bridge to a student or work permit later. For details, see Greece Golden Visa family members.
Can Students Work in Greece?
Children included in the Golden Visa can study at schools and universities in Greece. With the Golden Visa card, however, they cannot work, not even part-time. Work rights for students are covered by the student residence permit.
