Pursuant to article 128 par. 1 of the greek Immigration Code (Law 5038/2023), a third-country national may enter and reside in Greece for the purpose of undertaking vocational training at public or private Lifelong Learning Centres, Higher Vocational Training Schools and Vocational Training Schools. For this purpose, the applicant must first apply for and obtain a national entry visa for vocational training and then submit an application to the competent Aliens and Migration Office for the issuance of the relevant residence permit.
Specific supporting documents required for the issuance of a national entry visa for vocational training
Certificate issued by the competent department of the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports, confirming that the relevant Lifelong Learning Centre, Higher Vocational Training School or Vocational Training School holds a valid establishment and operating licence.
Certificate confirming that the third-country national has been admitted to a program requiring full-time in-person attendance and not distance learning, possesses a document certifying sufficient proficiency in the language in which the program’s coursework is taught, as well as the duration of the studies.
Proof that the applicant has sufficient financial resources to cover their living expenses during their stay in Greece.
Required documents for the initial issuance of a residence permit for vocational training
National entry visa (Type D).Private health insurance policy issued by a private insurance provider.
Certificate issued by the competent department of the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports, confirming that the public or private Lifelong Learning Centre, Higher Vocational Training School or Vocational Training School holds a valid establishment and operating licence.
Certificate of registration, along with a certificate stating that the program of study requires full-time in-person attendance and not distance learning, the third-country national possesses a document certifying sufficient proficiency in the language in which the program’s coursework is taught at a minimum level of B1, the total duration of the program of study and whether completion of an internship or practical training is mandatory under the program of study.
Evidence proving that the student has sufficient financial resources to cover their living expenses. The minimum amount of sufficient resources is €650 per month.
Certificate confirming that the student's financial obligations (tuition fees and any other applicable charges) have been settled.
Duration of the residence permit for vocational training
Until recently, a residence permit for vocational training was issued with a validity of one (1) year and could be renewed for an equal period each time. Following the amendments introduced to the greek Immigration Code by Law 5275/2026, a residence permit for vocational training is now granted for a period corresponding to the maximum duration of the specific study program in which the student is enrolled.
The residence permit may be renewed for an equivalent period, provided that the educational institution certifies that the third-country national retains their student status and continues to pursue their studies at the institution, and that the conditions set out in articles 105 and 106 of the Immigration Code continue to be fulfilled. Where the duration of the program of study is less than one (1) year, the residence permit shall be valid for the duration of the program.
Access to employment
A residence permit for vocational training does not grant access to employment. The holder may undertake practical training (internship) only where this forms part of, and is required by, the program of study.
If you are interested in obtaining a residence permit for vocational training in Greece, you can contact our office by telephone at +30 210 3319753 or by email at info@georgallis-law.com. Our law office and associates, with their expertise and experience in residence permits matters, will guide you step by step and assist you in completing the relevant procedure promptly, securely and effectively.
Pursuant to article 128 par. 1 of the greek Immigration Code (Law 5038/2023), a third-country national may enter and reside in Greece for the purpose of undertaking vocational training at public or private Lifelong Learning Centres, Higher Vocational Training Schools and Vocational Training Schools. For this purpose, the applicant must first apply for and obtain a national entry visa for vocational training and then submit an application to the competent Aliens and Migration Office for the issuance of the relevant residence permit.
Specific supporting documents required for the issuance of a national entry visa for vocational training
Required documents for the initial issuance of a residence permit for vocational training
Duration of the residence permit for vocational training
Until recently, a residence permit for vocational training was issued with a validity of one (1) year and could be renewed for an equal period each time. Following the amendments introduced to the greek Immigration Code by Law 5275/2026, a residence permit for vocational training is now granted for a period corresponding to the maximum duration of the specific study program in which the student is enrolled.
The residence permit may be renewed for an equivalent period, provided that the educational institution certifies that the third-country national retains their student status and continues to pursue their studies at the institution, and that the conditions set out in articles 105 and 106 of the Immigration Code continue to be fulfilled. Where the duration of the program of study is less than one (1) year, the residence permit shall be valid for the duration of the program.
Access to employment
A residence permit for vocational training does not grant access to employment. The holder may undertake practical training (internship) only where this forms part of, and is required by, the program of study.
If you are interested in obtaining a residence permit for vocational training in Greece, you can contact our office by telephone at +30 210 3319753 or by email at info@georgallis-law.com. Our law office and associates, with their expertise and experience in residence permits matters, will guide you step by step and assist you in completing the relevant procedure promptly, securely and effectively.