1.10%. Could someone confirm or deny this, or is this Greece making up it's own rules?? Nobody seems to know. Retiring in Crete Greece How to choose the best place to move to. Also buying fresh produce from the local farmers saves you a lot of money and you get fresh great quality products like organic eggs, fresh fruits, and vegetables, and things like honey. However, you might want to consider professional help. Whats it like to move to and live in Crete? As to electric appliances, heres a Miele site for Greece with prices, they have a store in Heraklion, Crete: https://www.miele.gr/. Living In Santorini: Expat Essential Guide | Expatra Up to 20,000 youll pay 22% tax, up to 30,000 youll pay 29% tax, and up to 40,000 youll pay 37% tax. There will be a lot of paperwork to be sorted, but I am sure this will not hinder those who want to settle in Greece. No matter where you are moving from, you will have to make some arrangements for healthcare in Greece. Moving to Crete - Expat Forum For People Moving Overseas And Living Abroad Similarly, Poligiros sits about an hours drive from Thessaloniki, which has an international airport with good connections. Both islands have so much to offer in terms of history and culture, so realistically, either island is great to visit as a tourist. Although it varies by geography, average temperatures are around 30 degrees in the summer and 10 degrees in the winter. Latest Blogs by English Expats Living in Greece Cariad in Crete "Living in Crete. A loaf of bread in Greece will set you back around 0.80. Of course, after that, you will have to apply for a residence permit to stay in Greece as all non-EU citizens do. Not everyone knows how big Crete is. In the summer months, when the middle of the day is very hot, many people take a long lunch. Crete is varied and diverse, meaning there really is a place for everyone. I already speak English 2 European languages and 1 Asian .. so thats a consideration. This will of course, be better in cities, but even rural areas have access to internet. UK citizens can travel to Greece for up to 3 months without a visa. So I need a long term residency permit. But all in all, I can say I feel really safe living in Crete.. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You might be able to arrange a shorter let, but this will be on a case-by-case basis. However, there are several crucial differences that could impact your choice. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Taygetos, residents can enjoy the lush countryside, quiet living and close proximity to the sea. Greece uses the Euro, but living here is generally cheaper than in other European nations such as France or Germany. Author: Sanne WesselmanA traveler, wanderer, digital nomad, and entrepreneur. Housing and utilities will be covered but I don't know if I can afford the rest of living expenses on my salary. Greece has a fairly good national healthcare system, which you can enter after three months of residency. 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. Both islands offer fantastic tasty local foods and drinks. After years of teaching both English and Italian at the University of Buenos Aires, I traveled to Italy for a scholarship. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. After gaining his BA and MA in English Literature, Jacob decided to take his writing full time. Emily always takes the scenic route to get to the heart of a country and when she isn't writing, she can be found outside with her two dogs Hugo and Suzette. Life in Crete can be a contradiction when it comes to the cost of living. 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. Unfortunately, we cannot help you here as we are not tax specialists. The west part of the island, especially the northwest near Chania, is stunningly beautiful, has the best beaches, and is thriving and bustling all year round. Select which of our trusted partners you would like to hear from and we'll do the rest. Most things are very similar to other European countries. Even heading out to a local coffee store will only cost you 3 for a regular coffee. Ferry companies that connect mainland Greece to Crete: Crete schools with addresses and contact details , Crete hospitals, health centres, regional clinics and other information on healthcare . I'm new here. There are also significant hospitals and medical centres in Heraklion, Rethymnon, Lassithi, Agios Nikolaos, Hania, and more. Underneath the busy tourist industry is a super laid-back island. 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. At the moment information is coming in small doses when it comes to UK nationals settling in the EU. Once granted, you only need to renew it if your circumstances change, and you must fill out versions for both you and your children (if applicable). The low cost of living in Greece Greece enjoys a lower cost of living than some other countries, such as the UK. Of course, if you do this, you have to accept the risk. You wont be short of medical care. Expat Forum For People Moving Overseas And Living Abroad. The basic requirements for a residence permit . we have one child thats still in primary and one thats just started secondary? You can expect to pay upwards of 130 per person per year, but this will depend on your age and any existing health conditions. This gives Crete its rich history and traveling around the island youll see remnants of many of these periods. The people are so friendly. The area known as Apokoronas, situated between the major towns of Chania and Rethymnon, is home to the highest density of expats on the island. The largest is Crete, with an area of 8,260 square kilometres. Thanks. Medication and pharmacies are fairly standard across the country, although you may have to visit a hospital for more specialised medication. Crete welcomed a brand-new hospital in Chania in 2000, and its still relatively modern and up to date. With the mountains of Crete protecting the southern coast, it is more difficult to access here and therefore is quieter, more traditional, and life is much slower. Cost of living in Crete in 2023 Cost of living in Crete (Greece) In the last decade, Crete has become the most favoured place of residence among Western expats, even more popular than Athens and Thessaloniki, especially among those who choose to retire in this country with a golden visa. I just booked a trip and upon arrival talked to locals to find a place to live. Many non-EU citizens including Brits, USA citizens, etc., can stay in Greece for up to 3 months without a visa. While you might not have the data speeds youre used to, youll still have mobile signal regardless. Either way, its worth it for the new life youll end up living. Many people prefer retiring in Crete Greece because of the warm weather, and the relaxed atmosphere of the Cretan living. And that is why as a tourist you should not make it so obvious that you are tourists, just dress like one of the locals. However, just like any other place on earth, Crete does have a few drawbacks, too. After living in Greece for at least three months, you can apply to the Greek Aliens Bureau via the online website. I have a Greek residency permit (beige card) from when I lived in Greece in 2020 before brexit. The few exceptions to the rule are some of Heraklions suburban areas, which can feel unsafe after dark. Obviously, Greece has plenty of ancient historic monuments if thats your thing. Before we start, heres one piece of advice: Greece and therefore Crete follow the Greek Orthodox church. Expatriates in Greece: Quality and Cost of Living Like most islands, Crete can be pretty expensive to get going and get set up. Keep an eye on your valuables in tourist spots such as The Palace of Knossos, and youll be totally fine. If youre retiring to Greece, you should take healthcare into consideration. Greece has more archaeological museums than any other country in the world. This can prove difficult in the first year because you need extra money available, but it gets easier once youre generating income. You will need to apply while living in the country, so you may want to get a visa first. The rest has to be imported from the mainland. Similarly, food is generally less expensive. 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. After this, you will need to apply for permanent residency. Please could you send me details of a recommended estate agent who can help an expat with a house purchase. The daily cost of life on the island is pretty cheap, especially when it comes to fresh, locally-grown foods. After you have applied for the alternative tax regime, the 7% tax rate will become effective the following tax year and will last for 15 years. Life in Crete, Greece Name: Gabi Ancarola Age: 48 Home town: Buenos Aires, Argentina Her Story: "I was born in Buenos Aires where I graduated as a sworn translator. Crete is the largest Greek island and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. I was just wondering if you know where I would have to pay tax? If you dont want to live on the coast, moving into the mountains offers a range of outdoor activities. Driving on Crete is pretty infamous as terrifying and unpredictable. Greece has some pretty amazing food. Greece is an extremely vibrant country that is famed throughout the world for its year-round good climate, detailed history, beautiful architecture, and unique culture. However, there are some quirks and abnormalities which are worth knowing before you go. 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. This is a good way to fully immerse yourself in Greek culture. Hi I lived in Crete ( Elounda)for a number of years and totally enjoyed every minute of it. Do you want city living or countryside living? and a bus route around sitia etc as i dont drive. The cons of living in Greece 1. hope that helps! Crete offers a vast range of benefits for anyone who takes the plunge to live there. Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Greece Expats in Greece offer advice about healthcare in Greece. Id encourage you to discuss your circumstances with the Greek authorities. I try to help paint an honest picture of the ups and downs of life abroad, share tips about moving to the place the expat now calls home, and information about what to see and do here. Thanks for the interesting article. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Living In Crete: Expat Essential Guide | Expatra How to Retire In Greece: Everything You Need to Know - SmartAsset Quickly and easily find trusted moving, insurance, relocation and other providers with Expat Exchange's Moving Planner. The landscape ranges from fertile coastal plains to rugged mountains and from busy metropolitan cities to quiet hillside villages. Completing the paperwork on your own is possible, but remember that you can hire legal help to make things quicker and easier. For example, we had a friend who felt dizzy and fell in her kitchen and when she was taken to the hospital, apart from treating her injuries, they also did lots of tests to determine the cause of her fall. The island is equipped with Big hospitals like the University General Hospital In Heraklion, Chania General Hospital located in the village of Mournies. Retiring In Crete Greece What Are The Cons And Pros? the people where very welcoming and warm, I worked in the tourist industry which was a lot of fun but it does die down in the winter and this is the hardest part but there is work and there are alot of English people stay all year round. The Greek authorities can refuse your residency for this. Greece is a fantastic country. However, once youve got everything sorted, its a reasonably inexpensive place to live. When it comes to the Greek lifestyle, there are many aspects worth praising. To make sure you get the best value for money, compare international health insurance options from various providers to find the best deal. Our historic center is really charming, with romantic cobblestone alleys, a magical Venetian harbor, and dozens of little bars and taverns serving fantastic local wines and tasty Greek food. While you have to pay for refuse collection, your basic monthly outgoings for water, electricity, and such will be around 150 (130) a month. Its in close proximity to the Greek islands and has good international connections. Greece has a more complicated tax system than you might be used to. Crete, Greece: Retirement, Cost of Living Info and Cities in Crete - IL As with many European countries, Greece enjoys a relaxed way of life that might take some getting used to. I inherited my mothers house in Rhodos and I decided to spend most of my time living here. Crete is known as the cradle of Western civilization and has tons of impressive ruins and sites dating from the Bronze age, when the Minoan civilization thrived on the island. This requires more documentation, however, including proof of funds and their source. For example, you could do your main grocery shopping in Lidl supermarkets which saves you a lot of money. 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. There is a large British expat community there, in the villages of Plaka, Kokkino Horio, Kalyves and Almerida. There are loads of hiking and mountain biking trails, wildlife hot spots, and beaches. 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. If you want to brush shoulders with celebrities and live the high life on the island, the northeastern village of Elounda is a charming fishing village turned playground of the rich and famous. Although making the jump to living in a new country can be daunting, its worth taking the chance if you can. For example, youll have much better facilities (both public and private) in urban areas, so if you already have health issues, this can be an important factor. 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. Living in Greece: What is it REALLY Like (2023 Expat Guide) The weather is among the best in Europe. If you want variety and nightlife and plenty to do, moving to Heraklion or the surrounding area would be ideal. Generally speaking, an expat with a monthly income of 2,000 will be able to live very comfortably almost anywhere in Greece. When it comes to choosing which part you should move to, there are a few things that you need to consider. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Overall, Crete is one of the best islands to move to if you want a Mediterranean lifestyle. In this series, I interview people living all over the world but outside of their home country. But, one of my absolute favorites is The Well of The Turk, in the heart of the Turkish district of the Old Town. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Nov 10, 2014. Its very common for locals to watch you struggle with a few words and then just respond with perfect English. In fact, in some areas such as Hora Sfakion and Souda, plenty of people head out to the local market or pop to their neighbours for coffee without locking up. Greece offers everything you could want from a new life abroad, including great weather and lower living costs. as well as having lots more info about living in Crete and Greece. 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. Providing youre willing to adjust to a Greeks pace of life and arent in a rush to get anything done, youll be pleasantly surprised about how good this actually feels. Healthcare and health insurance in Greece. Generally, all along the north coast of the island have excellent public transport, making it easier if you dont drive. Nothing is wrong; it just takes a while. Well, one of the things that you will find frustrating is the paperwork, Bureaucracy is something that you will deal with and you will have to be very patient. Also is there a aldi or lydle in sitia area please. Doing so can make sense if youre planning on splitting money between countries, but youll still need a specifically Greek account for things like paying tax and purchasing property. Agriculture is the most important industry on the island, with tourism being a close second. Crete is a very varied island which means it has a lot to offer and very distinct areas. After his parents emigrated to France in January 2020, Jacob has a special interest in all things expat related and even plans to retire abroad himself someday. Speaking Greek will definitely make this easier, but dont move to Greece assuming youll easily find a job. Its small enough to have a real sense of identity and community but large enough to have everything you could need- although some things come at a price. Even if the weather is not the best to swim in winter, theres something magical about visiting the pink sand beach of Elafonisi without the crowds, enjoying the uniqueness of the southern coast of Crete all alone.. Old buildings and village walls are the ones that get damaged, as the majority of the new builds are designed to withstand earthquakes, meaning that Greek cities and towns are less likely to experience serious structural damage. 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.