The visa will allow you to stay in Greece for more than 90 days, and that way, you can live in the country for the duration of the application process. hi, can anyone tell me what is involved in moving to Greece or where to get the information. You can also find me on YouTube. Living In Crete: Expat Essential Guide | Expatra we have one child thats still in primary and one thats just started secondary? The tourists usually go to the big beaches because they are not familiar with the island, expats who live here, know the small hidden spots, where they can go and have a swim and a picnic. There is plenty of fresh food grown on the island, and the Greek diet is well-known for its fish, simple dishes, and fresh produce. There is something for everyone but only if you know where to look. Like most of Europe, locals on the island generally speak English for tourists and are more than happy to help out if you try to speak in Greek, to begin with. Non-EU citizens must go through a more thorough immigration process. As a small island, Crete has a very strong sense of community and can often feel like a very large town where most people know each other. If you have questions or need more information about your Golden Visa options, we have a complete guide to EU Golden Visa Schemes and you can also contact us via our Advice page, we will be happy to help. Difficult to say what expats living in Crete think of it, maybe someone will come by and leave a comment. Add in the historic interest and bustling nightlife, and its got the potential to be top of most peoples lists. During this time you must also get a Greek tax number and a Greek bank account. Theres not much that I dislike about the island. You can, of course, find online forums and ask for the advice of other expats, but if you want to meet up, join a community and take advantage of the network of expats living on Crete, you might want to be in an area with a higher percentage of expats. Anyway must watch more of your videos and read more here. EU residents will generally face little difficulty with this process, but the same isnt always true for non-EU residents. Humans have inhabited Crete since at least 130,000 years ago, during the Paleolithic age. Again, an estate agent can help ensure everything is above board. 1.15%. Hi, this might be helpful: https://kefaloniapulse.homeinkefalonia.properties/?p=41780. This interview is part of theAsk an Expat series. Some of the main tourist attractions are closed for work in winter so there are few tourists and its a great time to explore the island, eat out and go shopping without being surrounded by tourists. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Location has everything to do with how much you're likely to spend. The local paper here, Xaniotika Nea, has plenty of small ads advertising for chefs but it's all in Greek. God bless. Anyone working self-employed in Greece must pay their taxes up front, but these are then offset against your annual tax returns. Cyprus has slighter larger towns and can sometimes feel like one giant, spread-out city. The island is packed with tiny villages and really feels like a Greek island. Finally, Crete is home to lots, and we mean lots, of stray animals. Crete has a large number of expats who live on the island all year round alongside the local population, so although the months between November and May are quieter, there is still plenty to do. Water sports (windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking) are potential activities to do in our vacation time. Expats In Crete, Greece If you are looking to connect with expats in Greece, then this page brings together all the latest expat blogs Greece written, any interviews, articles and news items we have here at ExpatsBlog.com. Nov 10, 2014. Driving on Crete is pretty infamous as terrifying and unpredictable. Whichever country you are moving from, you will need a nice, extended expiration date on your passport. You can access it online by typing in Xaniotika Nea, but you will then need to get the ads translated. Answer: Pros: The lifestyle is really relaxed and in accordance with Mediterranean culture (similar to Latin America locally). I wonder if you can help me. Or you can apply as a non-EU citizen and choose one of the options discussed in the guide. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. The INCO, The Cultural Organisation of the Foreign Residents of Aghios Nikolaos, is very busy and an excellent resource for expats in the area. In the summer months, when the middle of the day is very hot, many people take a long lunch. I am sure one of the things that you will have on your mind as you consider retiring in Crete Greece, is the medical facility and the quality of the services offered. Housing and utilities will be covered but I don't know if I can afford the rest of living expenses on my salary. But a modest, modern house will set you back around 250,000. In mainland Greece, earthquakes up to seven in magnitude have been recorded in the past, rising to up to 7.2 in islands like Crete. Crete, Corfu and Mykonos are all hugely popular islands . To make sure you get the best value for money, compare international health insurance options from various providers to find the best deal. Another good place to start is the GreeceMinistry for Migration and Asylum website. It really depends on your preferences. Latest Blogs by English Expats Living in Greece Cariad in Crete Like most islands, Crete can be pretty expensive to get going and get set up. Its certainly not a bad place to enjoy a glass of wine after a long day. To register with a doctor in Greece, youll need to complete a form with your insurance information (if applicable), your personal details, and your tax information. Youll find whole communities of expats sharing their knowledge and culture with other expats in tiny villages and pockets of the island. Anything over 40,001 is counted as the highest bracket of 45%. If you only have under a year left, renew early before you leave. Crete is the largest Greek island and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Cretes slow pace also applies to the bureaucracy system, so if you suffer from high blood pressure or are looking to get away from stressful paperwork, perhaps take up meditation or yoga while filling in all your official forms. By continuing to visit this site you agree to our use of cookies, Moving To Crete Health And Senior Care In Crete. Expats living here won't have to deal with anywhere near the same amount of tourist footfall as in other parts of Greece. The pros of living in Santorini 1. My problem is leaving Greece and returning every 3 months is expensive. Im really confused what I need to do!! English Expats In Crete, Greece If you are looking to connect with English expats in Crete, Greece, then this page brings together all the latest expat blogs Crete written by English bloggers, any interviews, articles and news items we have here at ExpatsBlog.com. The low cost of living in Greece Greece enjoys a lower cost of living than some other countries, such as the UK. I have lived here for 6 years now and I have not heard of any serious crimes, just some pick pocketing in Chania which happens a lot during the tourist season. Serenissima in Chania is a highlight. The island does get a fair amount of rain, giving it the lush vegetation and ensuring it doesnt become desert in summer. If you do choose to help these animals, be prepared that you may end up surrounded by animals looking for food. Underneath the busy tourist industry is a super laid-back island. Probably the most popular area for expats to move to is between Chania and Rethymnon, in an area known as the Apokoronas. However, Crete has more of a stereotypical Greek atmosphere. Greece Expat Forum: Living/Working in Crete | Expat Exchange Would you be so kind as to clarify some points please . Greeces current corporate tax rate is 24%, which has been reduced from 28%. Do you want city living or countryside living? To be totally honest, they are very similar with mountainous scenery, vineyards, and unique wildlife. Although major cities and tourist hubs generally work on a more British pattern of standardised hours, more rural areas often march to the beat of their own drum. As with many European countries, Greece enjoys a relaxed way of life that might take some getting used to. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. So be respectful and mindful of local traditions and culture. Didnt find what you were looking for or need further advice? You can contact Jacob on LinkedIn: Jacob Powell. Also if you like swimming and sunbathing, you are going to enjoy your retirement here on Crete because there are so many beaches, some big and some small, as you familiarize yourself with the island, you are going to find some really nice spots where you can enjoy swimming and relaxing even at the height of the tourist season. Greece has a more complicated tax system than you might be used to. To count as a permanent resident of Greece, you must have an address you live at for at least 183 days of the year. Its good to know beforehand what to expect. However, just like any other place on earth, Crete does have a few drawbacks, too. Yes, there are three things that every visitor to Crete should do: 1. It can depend on who you are talking to here, what mood they are in etc. But the British Consulate said The system allows for permitted absences from your country of residence. Of course, you can find rather fancy meals in Crete too. In the survey Expat Insider asked respondents to rate and provide information about how it is to live as expat in 65 countries around the world that are considered as key destinations for expats. Now based in France, Emily is a freelance writer from the UK with a passion for travel. Gabi has been living in Crete for the last five years. For example, rent on an inner-city apartment in Greece will set you back about 335 (300), while rural rent on an apartment of the same size will be around 280 (250). document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 - Expatra Ltd. UK Company Number 09686420. In fact, most people say the only problem walking after dark is the lumps and bumps on the road, which might cause you to trip. Here youll be in the minority and will be surrounded by locals and other Greeks. To open a standard bank account while youre living in Greece, youll need several documents from your home country, including. Can anyone tell me what might be a good approximate cost for all the following in Crete???? Come join the discussion about residency, taxes, documents, visas, travel, health care, finances, banking, classifieds, and more! I have read the basics. Living in Greece : A Guide to Moving to Greece as an Expat : Expat Info Later Crete was ruled by Rome, then by the Byzantine Empire, the Andalusian Arabs, the Venetian Republic, and the Ottoman Empire. kind regards Crete is home to many expats from all over the world. As more tourists head to the island, incidences of petty crimes like this do arise, but they generally target tourists who carry around larger amounts of cash for holiday spending. Guidance and information for UK citizens moving to Greece , US Embassy and Consulate in Greece: US citizen services . If you dont want to live on the coast, moving into the mountains offers a range of outdoor activities. A common clich could be saying that I dont really enjoy the way locals drive. The proximity to amenities will cost you, but youll pay even more to be living just outside the tourist buzz in summer. Hi there, you can also check out the visa hunter blog, which has loads of useful links about moving somewhere, paperwork, useful contacts and stuff you have to consider before going in a foreign country (for each country separately). Her love for adventuring was sparked during her time living and travelling in Canada as well as multiple trips across Europe. Thank you fir the information and the beautiful videos snd photos. If you are looking to move to Crete to enjoy the peace and quiet of your retirement years, then there is plenty to look forward to. Taxation of such kind is a highly complex matter and its best to consult a qualified tax advisor who understands international taxation rules and tax residency. As the capital city, Athens has everything you could need. Hi everyone! If you have questions or need more information, see our complete Guide to EU Golden Visa Schemes and options, or contact us via our Advice page, we will be happy to help. Moving to Crete wont have the same culture shock as moving to somewhere like Japan. Like many European countries, Greece offers a wide range of destinations, but all benefit from amazing weather and great food. we were looking at corfu but just found out that there is no international English speaking schools we can send our kids to. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you. Hi, we are planning to move to Crete within the next two years. This shouldnt be a problem for expats looking for a more relaxed lifestyle, but if speed and efficiency are your top priorities, itll be worth relocating to a larger city like Athens. Here things move at a slow pace (siga siga) also someone who enjoys the outdoors, taking long walks, or hiking, Crete is blessed with beautiful beaches, gorges, and mountains. I am American and hoping to move to Crete soon: Chania praefecture probably but possibly Herakleion. One being, what kind of life are you looking to live in Crete? Long story short, I work for the US Government and have an opportunity to apply for a position in Souda Bay, Crete. In this case, you can qualify for residency through investment (Golden Visa). Of course, if you do this, you have to accept the risk. Youll probably find it difficult to get a mortgage through a Greek bank, so many expats do so through international lenders. This can prove difficult in the first year because you need extra money available, but it gets easier once youre generating income. We currently live in Australia. Just sent you the contact details, hope this helps. On January 6th, Crete celebrates Epiphany, the Holy Blessing of the waters. Property value has gone up in recent years with an apartment in the city center of Chania costing anywhere between. I already speak English 2 European languages and 1 Asian .. so thats a consideration. If you choose to live outside the major towns of Heraklion and Rethymnon, you will find winter a great time to explore the local area. Is Crete A Good Place To Live For Pensioners? Utility bills are also lower in Greece. You might be able to arrange a shorter let, but this will be on a case-by-case basis. However, Cyprus also has some more middle eastern and Turkish influences, youll definitely notice it if you choose to move to Northern Cyprus. Any other useful information you could provide , would be greatfully recieved . The downside is that come summer, it is very touristy. There are different kinds of residency permits available depending on your purpose for moving to Greece, the most popular are: financially independent persons (FIP), Golden Visa and digital nomad. Agriculture is the most important industry on the island, with tourism being a close second. Greece Expat Forum: Crete| Expat Exchange Corfu doesn't completely close down in winter, especially Corfu town. In this guide, weve done some digging to find out what its really like living on Crete as an expat all year round. City Guides | Travel the World | Living Abroad | Travel Guides | Adventure Travel | Digital Nomad Life | Valencia, Spain | California, USA | The Netherlands | How to Plan a Trip, I consent to the storage of my data according to the Privacy Policy, - From Short Trips to Traveling the World & Living Abroad -, Living in Cuba: Things You Want to Know Before Moving Here, A Perfect Catalina Island Day Trip the, Why You Shouldnt Buy Seashells or Take Them, A Moving Abroad Checklist: Things to Do Before You Move Abroad, Things to Know if You Want to Go Sailing in Greece, Why Moving Abroad is Such a Valuable Experience, Things to Concider Before Moving to Another Country. Pros and cons, residency and property matters, cost of living, and the most popular places to live. An alternative is to open an international bank account with a company like Barclays. Rent increases must be stated in the contract, so be sure to read the fine print. Apart from that, if you spend more than 50% of the year in Greece or have a permanent residential address in the country, you will be considered a Greek resident, and you will have to pay taxes from your income abroad too. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Required fields are marked *. Language can be a barrier at any age. Crete has an amazing gastronomic tradition, so much so that there are people coming back to Crete year after year just for the sake of a small tavern, or even a certain dish., Also Read: Hidden Gems in Greece You Should Visit and Things to Know if You Want to Go Sailing in Greece. This is something youd pay top dollar for in countries like the UK. Non-EU citizens do not have automatic rights to settle down in the EU. Heraklion's Koules is a beautifully restored fortress surrounding the city's harbor, built by the Venetians in the early 13thcentury. Comment with your question below, and we will do our best to help. Life in the mountains is more similar to life in other Mediterranean countries, where the year is divided into growing and harvesting produce. Nightlife here amounts to a good selection of bars and restaurants, but youd be pushed to find someone open for customers after 1 AM. As far as work is concerned, it depends on which part of Crete you are coming to. An example is IKA, which is the largest social security organisation in Greece and is for those in standard employment. I am hoping to move to Greece in the near future on a FIP visa. House prices here are higher but living here is a luxury. Obviously, the warm weather is one of the reasons why Crete is a favorite of many retirees from Europe, the US, Canada, and other parts of the world. If your propertys cadastral value is 2000,000 and over, there are additional rates from 0.10% to 1.15%, depending on the property price. Nothing is wrong; it just takes a while. The CIC (Cretan International Community) based in Rethymnon meet for coffee once a month and organise activities, trips, and expat support. However, the cost of living is definitely higher in cities, particularly ones with a lot of tourism. Its in close proximity to the Greek islands and has good international connections. After living in Greece for at least three months, you can apply to the Greek Aliens Bureau via the online website. Around coastal areas it can get quite humid at times, and snowfall is common on the mountains between November and May, but rare in the low-lying areas. Generally, this must be completed at the Greek consulate in your home country. Crete being the largest island in Greece attracts lots of expats from other European countries and other parts of the world. iI went out for a holiday when I was 18 years old and just never really came home again.i have been backwards and forwards a few times over the years but I always end up going back.If you stay longer than 6 months then you will need a residence permit which you can obtain from your local police station.you will need to open a bank account and have enough money to live on if you are not working.The life in greece is fantastic but wages are a lot lower than in the UK.Good luck!