How can Russian immigrants adapt in Greece and obtain citizenship?

The history of Russian-Greek relations

The history of interaction between Russia and Greece has deep roots, spanning many centuries. Even in ancient times, the Greeks played a key role in the exploration of the northern coast of the Black Sea, which laid the foundation for future cultural and trade connections. With the fall of the Byzantine capital, Constantinople, in the 15th century, thousands of Greek families began to migrate to Russia, continuing to do so for centuries, up until the beginning of World War I. During the Russian Civil War, many citizens sought refuge in Greece in hopes of a better fate.

The return of the Greeks to their homeland

Since the early 1990s, there has been a wave of return among Greeks of Russian descent to their historical homeland. Thousands of people have relocated to major cities such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and Alexandroupolis, contributing to the establishment of a large Russian diaspora in Greece, which has become a significant part of the local community.

The process of obtaining citizenship

Obtaining Greek citizenship is quite a complex process. Migrants need to live in the country for at least seven years and successfully prove their knowledge of the language, history, and culture. In contrast, obtaining a residence permit (RP) is significantly easier. Greek government institutions offer numerous programs that facilitate this process, making it accessible to many who wish to apply.

• Marriage to a citizen of Greece:One way to obtain citizenship is by marrying a Greek citizen. Such marriages significantly speed up the process of reviewing the relevant applications, especially in cases where the family has children.
• Investing in real estate:Another way to obtain residency status is through real estate investments. Purchasing property worth at least 250,000 euros provides the opportunity to receive a "golden visa" for a period of five years, with the right to extend it for the client and their family members.

In 2019, Greece became the leader among countries in the number of "golden visas" issued, even surpassing the USA, with Russians making up one of the most active groups of applicants. During the coronavirus pandemic, the real estate market in Greece experienced a lull, and the authorities actively sought to attract foreign buyers by offering various privileges for retirees. This led to a surge in demand for real estate purchases, which increased by 200% by mid-summer.

Financial independence

Financial independenceIt is also a necessary factor for obtaining a residence permit. With a legal income of 2000 euros per month, it is possible to obtain a residence permit without the right to work. Students enrolling in Greek educational institutions can also receive a residence permit, which will allow them not only to study according to European standards but also to travel across European countries.

Employment and career development

However, finding a job in Greece is not an easy task. The unemployment rate here is one of the highest in Europe. For successful employment, knowledge of Greek and/or English is often required, as well as a license that allows employers to hire foreign workers. There is also the possibility of doing an internship, which can last from six months to two years.

Adaptation and integration

As for adapting to a new place, the overwhelming majority of immigrants note that Russians in Greece are treated with understanding and kindness due to the shared historical ties, religious traditions, and cultural similarities. A significant number of Russian expats live in Greece, which greatly facilitates their integration into society.

Moving to Greece: An Introduction to the New

Moving to a new country always brings with it a multitude of challenges and new experiences. Greece, with its unique culture and way of life, is certainly no exception. Immersing oneself in this country requires taking its unique characteristics into account.

Pace of life

The first aspect is the measured pace of life of the local population. Greeks live without haste, which can be a surprise for people used to the fast pace of life in their own countries. It is also important to pay attention to the language barrier. Although there are enough English speakers in large cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, knowing Greek will significantly ease your interactions and help you better understand local traditions and customs.

Interest in personality

Additionally, Greeks tend to show interest in the personal lives of those around them, which may come across as too intrusive for those who are used to a more private lifestyle. This aspect can surprise newcomers, requiring some adjustment. And of course, one cannot forget about the climate — Greeks face hot summer temperatures that can be challenging to adapt to.

Russian diaspora

Nevertheless, it is worth noting that there is a significant Russian diaspora in Greece, numbering over 300,000 people. The presence of such a large number of compatriots greatly facilitates the process of socialization and integration into a new society. You will be able to communicate in your native language, find communities of like-minded individuals that help create a sense of home. There are Russian educational institutions in the country, which provide the opportunity for your children to receive a quality education, as well as events organized to promote the preservation of cultural traditions.

Adaptation in a new society

Taking care of everyday life and family matters in such a new country for you is also significantly simplified thanks to the Russian-speaking community. Regardless of who you are — a highly qualified specialist or simply someone looking to enjoy the sea and sun — you will definitely find all the conditions here to realize your ideas and plans.

Language learning

It is important to note that learning the language is crucial for those considering a long stay in Greece. Many educational institutions offer Greek language courses that can last from six months to a year. This is a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the language and get to know the culture from the very first days of your stay, as it is possible to reach a level of proficiency that allows for communication on everyday topics in a short period of time.

Difficulties of the language

Although some alphabets and grammatical structures of the Greek language may be understandable to Russian speakers, overall it is quite a complex language. Be prepared for certain difficulties that may arise during the learning process, such as the numerous borrowed words and expressions from Ancient Greek that can be confusing. Simple translations may lose their relevance in terms of meanings used in modern Greek, which in turn creates additional barriers to understanding.

The kindness of the Greeks

Nevertheless, Greeks are known for their warm character and openness. They are eager to engage in conversation and always ready to help, which makes interactions with them enjoyable. Physical closeness, such as hugs or friendly pats, is common in their culture, and Greeks easily express their emotions. If any of your new acquaintances decide to greet you warmly or play with your child, consider it a sincere gesture of friendship.

Comfort of communication

The Greeks understand that many cultures may be more reserved, so if you prefer to maintain distance, the locals will not insist on closeness. This creates a comfortable communication environment where both parties can feel free and at ease. Greece has the potential to become your new home, provided you respect local traditions and cultural nuances.

Conclusion

By putting in a little more effort, you will be able to quickly adapt and experience a lot of positive emotions from life in this beautiful country.

Family ties in Greek society

Greek society is distinguished by its strong family ties: everyone has a large number of close and distant relatives, and they all actively maintain communication with one another. It is common to see family members living nearby, sometimes just a few steps apart, and visiting each other without any prior arrangements is a usual practice rooted in their traditions. Greeks tend to create large families, where the number of children reaches three or more.

Adaptation of Russian emigrants

For Russian emigrants, adapting to Greek life becomes a serious challenge, especially when it comes to understanding the more measured local pace of life. Unlike Russians, who are used to a fast pace and the drive to get things done within set deadlines, Greeks tend to postpone tasks until tomorrow, and sometimes even the day after tomorrow, if possible. However, this does not mean that Greeks are lazy; on the contrary, they actively run their own businesses, often spending up to 12 or 14 hours a day at work.

The Greeks are great at prioritizing, choosing time for personal matters and family communication, which allows them to smile more often and enjoy life.

The climate of Greece

The climate of Greece has its own characteristics, both positive and negative, which depend on the time of year. The summer months can be quite hot, but importantly, the need forwarm clothingThis is not necessary here — it simply won't be needed. Greece is known for its sunny climate, with an average of about 300 sunny days a year, which reduces the likelihood of colds and has a positive effect on both the physical and emotional well-being of its citizens.

Environmental situation

Moreover, the environmental situation in Greece is quite favorable — it is one of the best in Europe. According to research by the well-known publication Travel+Leisure, several Greek islands have become leaders in the list of the most popular tourist destinations. Life here is associated with clean air and organic products, which undoubtedly contributes to the improvement of the population's health.

Weather and climate characteristics

Nevertheless, it is worth noting that there is a particular feature in coastal areas: high humidity, and in some islands, the climate can change quite unpredictably. For example, in winter, you can enjoy walks in a t-shirt during the day, but at night, you need to turn on the heating. July and August are considered the hottest months, when the air temperature in the shade can reach 38–40 degrees Celsius. Rainfall in Greece is most often observed from mid-spring to mid-autumn, while clear weather prevails during the rest of the period.

Swimming season

The longest swimming season is recorded on the southern coast of Crete, where it lasts until the end of November. However, in the summer, strong winds can occur in some parts of the country, especially in conditions of low humidity, which creates some inconveniences for beachgoers and can affect maritime transport schedules.

Differences in climatic conditions

It's important to remember that the climate situation varies significantly across different regions of Greece and its islands. For example, on the Chalkidiki peninsula, the resort season is quite short, lasting only from May to September. However, due to the surrounding mountains, the summer months here are almost windless, and the sea warms up quickly, retaining heat for a long time. The low humidity makes the heat more bearable, which attracts many tourists.

The climatic conditions of Greece

The island of Rhodes experiences high humidity, set in a picturesque environment with lush greenery and mild winter temperatures. Here, the thermometer rarely drops below +16°C. At the same time, the island of Corfu offers similar climatic conditions, distinguished by a subtropical climate where evenings can be quite cool. Crete, on the other hand, is popular for its sunny and dry climate, allowing the soul to relax at any time of the year, thanks to its mild winter temperatures.

Greek cuisine

Greek culinary art is abundant with dishes that are based on fresh vegetables. Eggplants, tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, beans, and peppers make up the main assortment of the local diet. Salads and meat stews are particularly popular in Greek cuisine. Locals especially appreciate meats such as goat, pork, and lamb.

Two products that are widely used in Greek cuisine and are included in almost every dish areGreek cheese, consisting of more than sixty varieties, andolive oilIn baking and dessert preparation, honey, nuts, and cinnamon are often used.

Features of the kitchen

Greek cuisine doesn't have a strongly defined national character, as most dishes are easy to digest, simply prepared, and the necessary ingredients are available throughout the year.

The standard of living in Greece

As for the standard of living, the average budget for a couple in Greece is approximately€1300-1500per month, which is comparable to expenses in Moscow. Prices for fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as seafood, are quite reasonable and affordable. Greece is abundant with cafes and restaurants to suit every taste and budget; a meal in a small cafe will cost about€10-12per person.

Energy costs

Energy costs in Greece are higher than in Russia; however, the price of water is significantly lower. Winter heating expenses can rise sharply, especially in areas where there is no gas supply and electricity or diesel fuel reserves must be used. Additionally, it is important to consider infrastructure costs, which amount to€1-2for square meter and included in the local tax.

Utility costs

On average, utility payments for the winter period for an apartment with an area of85 square metersare about€150-160...and the cost of unlimited internet reaches approximately...€24A monthly public transport pass costs about€32...while a gym membership varies from...€35 to €40The rent for housing can vary from€350 to €600depending on the location and your requirements.

Employment opportunities

Moreover, there are many employment options in this country. The most popular sectors for immigrants are services, tourism, agriculture, and industry. Many of them find their place in various professions:

• guides
• translators
• photographers
• administrators

Thanks to the large Russian-speaking community, you will have the opportunity to try your hand at organizing events for Russian-speaking clients or find a job in a beauty salon that caters to a Russian-speaking audience.

The situation in the labor market in Greece

In Greece, there is a high demand for both highly skilled workers and individuals without specific skills. The job market offers numerous vacancies, including positions for housekeepers, cleaners, nannies, waiters, loaders, harvesters, and agricultural workers. Thus, the demand for these professions remains consistently high.

There is also a constant demand for specialized construction workers, such as carpenters, electricians, masons, concrete workers, welders, and installers. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the demand for doctors and other medical professionals, as well as engineers, educators, financiers, and systems analysts.

Job search in Greece

If you're interested in how to find a job in Greece, what professions are currently in demand, and what the earning prospects are, you should pay attention to extensive articles on this topic to get comprehensive information.

Cost of housing

When it comes to housing aspects, rental prices in Greece vary significantly depending on the region. For example, in Thessaloniki, the rent for a furnished apartment with two or three bedrooms can range from 350 to 600 euros. Renting houses is generally more expensive, ranging from 600 to 1500 euros.

In most cases, there is heating in homes in the northern part of the country, but it's essential to clarify the type of heating. The most economical option is using gas, although in some areas, gas networks are not available. In such regions, rental prices may decrease, but heating costs will be significantly higher.

Examples of real estate in Greece

• Villa in Agios Nikolaos:The area is 140 square meters, priced at 250,000 euros. It is located on the island of Crete, 3 kilometers from the town of Agios Nikolaos and 50 minutes from the airport. The nearest sea is 3 kilometers away. On the first floor: a living room connected to the dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom, and a large terrace.

General information about the proposed real estate properties

The area of available plots and properties in the real estate market is quite large, creating attractive options for potential buyers. One interesting lot is 2 hectares of land, which includes 140 rooms and 8 bungalows, located just 150 meters from the coast. The price of this land plot is20 million eurosThere is also an option to purchase an indom, the price of which is240,000 euros.

Plot in Nea Makri

In the region of Nea Makri, located in Attica, a plot of land is being offered that occupies1273 square metersThe land is surrounded by a fence, there is a well installed on it, and water and electricity are connected. The maximum building area on this plot reaches435 square metersThe offered price is250,000 eurosThis plot is provided by Grekodom Development A.E.

Plot of land in Crete

On the island of Crete, there is a plot of land with an area of4860 square meters, which also has connected utilities — water and electricity. Here, it is possible to construct facilities with a total area of up to200 square metersThe plot delights with magnificent views of the sea, mountain ranges, and forests, and the price is550,000 euros.

Townhouse in Lagonisi

A townhouse with a total area is offered for sale in Lagonisi.245 square metersThis property is under construction and includes three levels:

• On the first level, there is one bedroom, a living room, and a kitchen.
• The second floor consists of two bedrooms and a bathroom.
• On the third floor, there are two more bedrooms with two bathrooms.

The total cost of the townhouse is650,000 eurosand it is also offered by Grekodom Development A.E.

A plot of land on the Athos Peninsula

A plot of land is for sale on the Athos Peninsula, in the Halkidiki region.6000 square metersIt has excellent views of the sea and mountains, and the price of this plot is480,000 eurosWater supply and electricity are also connected to this site.

Townhouse in Athens

A townhouse is available in Athens with an area of220 square meterswhich consists of two levels. On the fifth floor, there are:

• Three bedrooms.
• Living room combined with kitchen.
• Three showers.

On the sixth floor, there is one bedroom and a shower. The windows offer a stunning view of the mountains. This property is equipped with solar panels and air conditioning, and its price reaches450,000 euros.

Villa on the island of Thassos

On the island of Thassos is offered a three-storey villa with the area of130 square meters. In the basement there are two bedrooms and a bathroom, on the first floor there is a living room with kitchen and toilet, and the second floor consists of a shower room. The villa offers picturesque views of the sea and the surrounding mountains and is priced as follows550,000 euros.

Commercial real estate in Thessaloniki

Commercial real estate in Thessaloniki is available with an area of82 square meterswhich functions as a café. The lease agreement continues until2026with an annual increase in the rental rate of3%. The price for this object is93,000 euros.

More offers in Thessaloniki

In addition, other options are available in Thessaloniki, for example, an apartment with an area of68 square meters. Such offers make the real estate market in Greece very attractive to a wide range of buyers.

The secondary real estate market in Greece is full of all kinds of housing, ranging from modern apartments to comfortable townhouses. One of the most interesting options is an apartment located on the third floor of an apartment building. It has two bedrooms, a spacious living room with a kitchenette, a separate kitchen and a bathroom. This housing is offered with furniture, which allows new owners to immediately start living in their cozy nest. Additionally, it should be noted that there is an elevator in the building, which makes it convenient for all tenants. This apartment is also attractive because of its location in the Kato Toumba neighborhood.

Townhouse on the peninsula of Sithonia

The next property on our horizon is a townhouse under construction on the picturesque peninsula of Sithonia in the region of Halkidiki. The area of this duplex dwelling is 75 square meters. On the first floor there is a cozy living room with kitchen and shower room, while on the first floor there are two bedrooms and an additional bathroom. The windows of this accommodation offer breathtaking views of the sea and the verdant forests, making it ideal for living and vacationing.

Cottage in the suburbs of Thessaloniki

A three-level cottage of 286 square meters is for sale in the suburbs of Thessaloniki. On the first floor there are:

• two bedrooms;
• living room;
• kitchen;
• bathroom;
• pantry.

The second floor contains one bedroom and similar rooms, while the third floor has no living quarters. This house is designed with modern needs in mind and is equipped with solar panels.

Investments in land plots

In addition to residential properties, Greece also offers excellent opportunities to invest in land plots. For example, in Athens, a plot of 312 square meters is for sale, fenced and expandable by another 561 square meters. The plot is conveniently located in the area of Kalifeia and has all the necessary communications.

Luxurious villa in Athens

Meanwhile, for those who want luxury in the capital are presented an impressive villa with an area of 510 square meters. This object includes:

• six bedrooms;
• five bathrooms.

It is also possible to obtain a residence permit when purchasing real estate. Moreover, online showings are available, allowing you to evaluate the property from anywhere in the world.

Comfortable house in Halkidiki

An interesting option also awaits in Halkidiki, a 200 square meter house that also offers the possibility of a residence permit and can be viewed via online streaming. In addition, land plots with a total area of up to 10,000 m² are available, offering a large number of development and income opportunities.

Apartment for city life in Athens

For lovers of active urban life in Athens, an apartment with an area of 105 square meters is offered. This object is under construction and is located on the sixth floor. The interior provides:

• three bedrooms;
• living room with kitchen;
• bathroom;
• shower room.

The heating system and fireplace will create a comfortable atmosphere for the residents. A convenient addition to the dwelling will be the presence of a common swimming pool for the residents, which makes this option particularly interesting.

Small apartment in Thessaloniki

Also on the market in Thessaloniki is an apartment of 50 m², which is located on the seventh floor. This property includes one bedroom; it will be a great choice for young people or those looking for a secluded and comfortable accommodation. The building is equipped with all the necessary amenities, including solar panels for water heating and an elevator.

At the moment many properties in Greece offer unique conditions for buying and comfortable living, giving investors and buyers the opportunity to get closer to realizing their dream of owning their own home on the magnificent sunny coast.

Search for accommodation for rent in Greece

There are many effective approaches to finding a place to rent in Greece. One of the most affordable options is to look at the advertisements and stickers posted in various places around the city, including the doors of residential buildings and public transportation stops. If you are local, don't miss the opportunity to peruse the areas you are interested in, as this is where suitable accommodation may be available.

Local publications and announcements

It is also worth paying attention to local print media, such as the newspaper “χρυσή ευκαιρία”, which can be a good assistant in your real estate search. Using the built-in translation capabilities of your browser, you can easily navigate to the pages where you can find real estate listings grouped by city, price category and various important parameters.

Communication with locals

Another effective search method is to use word of mouth, i.e. talking to locals. Don't hesitate to ask questions and ask if any of them can recommend someone you know who rents accommodation.Greeksare usually very friendly and helpful, and often have information about the lives of their neighbors.

Acquisition and maintenance of real estate

When it comes to buying and maintaining real estate in Greece, you should familiarize yourself with the key steps in the process. This is to avoid unnecessary problems and surprises. It is also possible to use a special calculator to help you calculate the costs associated with buying and maintaining a property.

Health care and social support

With regard to health care and social security, health insurance is a mandatory requirement for people with a temporary or permanent residence permit in Greece. The minimum price of a standard health insurance package is approximately €120 per year and includes:

• Emergency medical services,
• family doctor consultations,
• Partial coverage of the cost of medications.

A more comprehensive package is available at private clinics, where costs can range from €500 to €700 per year.

Healthcare system

The health care system in Greece also reflects features common to many other countries. There are often long waiting times at public health facilities, even if your visit is planned in advance. However, be aware that test results can take a considerable amount of time. In private health care facilities, services are much faster, but the price for a single appointment can be around €30.

Pension system

Pension insurance also has its own peculiarities. Private business owners are required to contribute about €150 per month, while employers pay an even higher amount for their employees. Contributions increase with the age of the employee, making it difficult to find employment in the country, as large companies are often not represented.

Social security

In terms of social assistance, there are no maternity benefits in Greece. Women can only receive financial support if the total income of a family of four does not exceed €1,000 per month. At the same time, given the existing bureaucracy and lengthy application procedures, it can take a long time to receive such assistance.

Russian-speaking diaspora

The Russian-speaking community in Greece is quite large. Various organizations providing assistance and support to Russian-speaking citizens are active here. A full list of such institutions can be found on specialized resources devoted to life and adaptation in Greece.

Education for children

If you are planning to move to Greece with children, you will not have to face difficulties in finding educational institutions. There are about forty Russian schools and several kindergartens in the country, which will make it much easier for your kids to adapt.

Education for children in Greece

If you are going to spend an extended period of time in Greece, it is worth considering having your child attend a local educational institution. There are both public and private kindergartens in the country.

Of all the daycare centers, public ones accept children from the age of four, but enrollment can be quite difficult as there is a high level of competition and it is necessary for both parents to have a job.

Private daycare centers offer their services starting at around 250 euros per month.

Schooling

As far as schooling is concerned, every Greek school has made provision for special intensive Greek language courses for children who do not speak the language. Such courses last for six months and include:

• Classes are four hours a day
• Small groups of four to five students

Classes are taught in pairs and there are long breaks in between where students can get out into the fresh air and play active games with the teachers.

It should be noted that the amount of homework is considerably less than in traditional educational institutions in other countries; most of the work is done directly in the classroom.

Additional activities

Greek schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs. The attitude of local students towards foreign-born children and children with disabilities is extremely positive.

Public schooling is free, but as with kindergarten, the enrollment process can be difficult due to the limited number of spaces.

Private schools have tuition rates ranging from3.5 to 10 thousand euros per year.

Playgrounds and children's cafes

In addition, there are many specialized playgrounds, known as pedotopos, in every district of Greece. These are establishments similar to children's cafes:

• Separate areas for adults
• Play spaces for children

For a small amount of money, you can leave your child in care for a short time or organize a holiday for them.

Social media and support

Social media is full of groups that can provide support to Russian-speaking families. Examples of such communities include:

• Russians in Greece
• Russian-speaking moms in Greece

These groups help newcomers adjust to a new cultural environment by providing advice and opportunities to socialize. Discussion topics cover a wide range of topics including:

• Searching for jobs
• Information about life in Greece
• Placing a variety of announcements

Russian establishments in Greece

You can also find many Russian establishments in Greece, ranging from restaurants to stores. It is important to remember that large supermarket chains operate on a special schedule:

• Sunday - usually closed
• They work three days a week from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
• On the other days, they work from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Considering all these nuances, life in Greece can become an exciting and harmonious experience for you and your family.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it can be said that the history of Russian-Greek relations, rooted in the distant past, offers modern opportunities for those who seek to change their lives and move to Greece. As the author of the article, I recognize the significant impact of cultural exchange between our peoples, which creates a welcoming atmosphere for the Russian community in Greece.

Greece, with its rich history and culture, offers numerous pathways for immigration: whether through property acquisition, obtaining a residence permit through marriage, or employment. As one of the most popular destinations for Russian migrants, Greece attracts with its economic climate, mild winter weather, and the warm attitude of the locals.

Opportunities for immigration

• Purchase of real estate for obtainingGolden Visa.
• Obtaining citizenship through marriage.
• Legal employment considering language requirements.
• Education in Greek universities.
• Internships and other exchange programs.

Nevertheless, it is important to remember that living in a new country involves many adaptation processes. The language, mentality, and even habits can differ from what one is used to, which requires migrants to have a certain level of flexibility and understanding. Language is not just a means of communication, but also a key to understanding the local culture and mentality.

Despite the challenges, from language differences to cultural barriers, I believe that with each meeting and every earnest attempt to befriend the locals, life becomes richer and more joyful.

Life in Greece

Every year, more and more Russians are choosing Greece as their new homeland, which is evidenced by the active growth of the Russian community in this beautiful country. And although each journey is unique, I am convinced that with determination, openness, and a willingness to face new challenges, any migrant can create their new happy life.

Greece, with its sunny days and warm-hearted people, is ready to welcome them with open arms, offering the chance to feel at home.