Civil partnership agreement or Marriage & Residence Permit for Foreign Spouses of Greek Citizens

18 June 2025

Getting Married in Greece: Legal Process and Residence Permit for Foreign Spouses

Introduction
Greece remains a preferred destination for international couples, both for weddings and for establishing permanent residence. When a Greek citizen enters into a marriage or civil partnership with a foreign national, a few straightforward legal steps must be followed to ensure compliance with Greek legislation. Upon the completion of the marriage or partnership, the foreign spouse becomes eligible to apply for a residence permit. In this article, we provide the subsequent steps required for the issuance of a residence permit for the foreign national spouse.

How to Apply for a Residence Permit as the Foreign Spouse of a Greek Citizen

The foreign national spouse must apply for a residence permit based on family reunification with a Greek or EU citizen.

The application should include:

• A copy of the marriage certificate
• National identity card issued by the Hellenic Police (Greek Spouse)
• Type C entry visa, where required
• Family status certificate issued by a competent Greek authority
• Marriage certificate indicating registration of the marriage with the competent civil registry authority or Civil partnership agreement certificate concluded in Greece or before a Greek consular authority

Important: The residence permit application must be submitted within 90 days from the date of legal entry into Greece or from the date of marriage. Failure to submit the application within one year from the date of entry into Greece, the date of the marriage registration, or the birth of the child, results in an administrative fine of €50.

Rights Granted to the Foreign Spouse After Obtaining a Residence Permit in Greece

Upon approval of the residence permit, the foreign spouse of a Greek citizen acquires several important rights, including:

• Legal residence in Greece
• The right to work and engage in self-employment or business activity
• Access to public healthcare and social insurance
• Free movement within the Schengen Area for short-term stays
• The right to renew the permit and, after a period of legal stay (typically 3–5 years), the possibility to apply for long-term residence or even Greek citizenship under certain conditions

Why You Need Legal Assistance for Marriage and Residence Procedures in Greece

Considering the complexity of legal documentation and immigration rules, professional legal assistance is highly recommended. An experienced immigration lawyer can guide you through each step of the process—ensuring full compliance with Greek law and helping avoid unnecessary delays or penalties.

Moreover, in the case of a civil partnership agreement, the presence of legal counsel is strongly advised. A lawyer can ensure that the terms and conditions of the agreement are clearly defined and fully understood by both parties, thereby minimizing the risk of future misunderstandings or legal disputes.

Conclusion

A marriage with a Greek citizen can offer stability and new opportunities for couples wishing to live together in Greece. To avoid legal pitfalls and ensure a successful application for a residence permit, it’s crucial to understand the procedures and comply with all legal obligations. If you’re planning a marriage in Greece or a civil partnership agreement with a Greek citizen and you need assistance with the procedure or the residence permit process, our law office is here to provide reliable legal support tailored to your situation.

By: Eleni Petrakou

Posted in: Our News