I inherited my mothers house in Rhodos and I decided to spend most of my time living here. Because of the stunning countryside, both islands are a dream for anyone who likes outdoor activities. We have some friends who long term renters. Youll find whole communities of expats sharing their knowledge and culture with other expats in tiny villages and pockets of the island. Had bern thinking of Greece as a retirement possibility from Hamburg Germany A budget-conscious expat can live comfortably in Greece for no more than $2,000 a month. It's an ideal place for those who love outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and snorkeling. My problem is leaving Greece and returning every 3 months is expensive. If youre thinking of moving to Greece then renting a property can be a good idea before settling down permanently. In this guide, weve done some digging to find out what its really like living on Crete as an expat all year round. Most expats who move to Crete in later life said their main concerns were the language barrier and healthcare. Living In Crete: Expat Essential Guide | Expatra However, there are minimal crime reports, and very few people actually experience anything dangerous. We currently live in Australia. 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. Applying for a residence permit will take some time. Lying in the deep south-east of Europe, Cyprus not only offers a lot of fun on vacation but has . Nov 10, 2014. Expats In Crete, Greece Although there are some beaches, gorges, and cities that everyone wants to visit, it is always a good idea to explore places that most tourists do not visit. 2 years ago. Even the little villages have a smattering of expats, and the large town of Chania is just half an hour away by car. I lived in Crete for 3 years with a Greek man about 28 years ago but have gone back frequently and have . Crete is a very varied island which means it has a lot to offer and very distinct areas. Other than tourists related petty crimes, I have not heard of severe crimes. Required fields are marked *. Similarly, you can only be evicted for not paying rent, so renters generally have more rights in Greece than in countries like the UK or the USA. The cons of living in Greece 1. Find more details on how to obtain residency in Greece in our Residency In Greece guide. While you have to pay for refuse collection, your basic monthly outgoings for water, electricity, and such will be around 150 (130) a month. 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. Yes, there are three things that every visitor to Crete should do: 1. 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. Here youll be in the minority and will be surrounded by locals and other Greeks. Water sports (windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking) are potential activities to do in our vacation time. In January, we have some days when the temperatures can go as high as 25 degrees Celsius, and night temperatures are between 10 and 17 degrees Celsius. The few exceptions to the rule are some of Heraklions suburban areas, which can feel unsafe after dark. During this time you must also get a Greek tax number and a Greek bank account. Both the food and the vibe here are amazing. I have read the basics. Name: Gabi Ancarola VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Generally walking or stumbling, the short distance home doesnt leave you feeling unsafe or glancing over your shoulder. . This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Even though technically that is true, some of the bureaucrats here still ask you for one for certain things, like if you buy a car here you still have to get a residence permit. as well as having lots more info about living in Crete and Greece. If you have any more questions about life here please post here and we will give you any advice we can. Expats in Chania - Chania Town Forum - Tripadvisor This will of course, be better in cities, but even rural areas have access to internet. Its in close proximity to the Greek islands and has good international connections. A decent bottle of local wine will only set you back around 4, and fresh bread costs under 2. I truly want to thank you for your very rich, informative and helpful writings. Greece is a fantastic country. First off, Cyprus is both more extensive and more densely populated. Underneath the busy tourist industry is a super laid-back island. Choose 1 Nationalities Living in Crete, Greece English Latest Blogs by Expats Living in Greece more expat blogs Crete 470 reviews. I already speak English 2 European languages and 1 Asian .. so thats a consideration. It rains very little in Crete. Comment with your question below, and we will do our best to help. If you find yourself in these areas, youre better off heading back to the town centres bright lights. Subscribe. Youll probably find it difficult to get a mortgage through a Greek bank, so many expats do so through international lenders. The south coast of the island is less busy with tourists in summer, which is fantastic. It can depend on who you are talking to here, what mood they are in etc. 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. The landscape ranges from fertile coastal plains to rugged mountains and from busy metropolitan cities to quiet hillside villages. The advantage to this over standard citizenship application is that its generally quicker and saves a lot of paperwork. Like this article about living in Crete? To qualify, applicants must not have been tax resident for at least 5 of the previous 6 financial years. The quality of life in Crete is generally considered to be excellent. Because Crete is relatively relaxed, they sometimes dont respect even the most basic rules of the road. I do however have in excess of 50,000 disposable savings ( and funds under the golden visa threshold to purchase a property ). Greece is one of the best places to move abroad if you seek sunshine, a slower pace of life and a good value for money destination. Report inappropriate content. A cinema ticket only costs around 7.50 and a bus ticket costs just 1.70. Probably the most active one in the winter is Kalyves as there is also a local Greek community which requires shops and services. The weather in Crete is pleasant in winter, hovering at around 10 degrees, although some of the mountains will get a dusting of snow. International health insurance can be quite expensive. Again, fees vary widely from school to school, but are more expensive than private schools. Also many Americans complain that they want to get back to the US it takes a certain kind of person to appreciate what Greece has to offer. However, because Crete is an island, more oversized items must be shipped from the mainland, adding to the price. Agios Nikolaos General hospital, Sitia General Hospital, Rethimno General Hospital just to name a few, there are also small clinics all around the island and many Private hospitals. I honestly believe that Im truly blessed for living here, and Im thankful for it every single day of my life.. Your email address will not be published. My private pension pays me circa 1,500 a month , we have no other income . Expat Forum For People Moving Overseas And Living Abroad. There is a large British expat community there, in the villages of Plaka, Kokkino Horio, Kalyves and Almerida. Whether you are visiting the island, living on the island or considering moving to Crete, I share lots of helpful information. For example, you can choose beachside life, mountainside life or city life. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For UK citizens planning to relocate to Greece, it can make sense to take advantage of the three-month visa-free travel period to visit different areas of the country. Most of these villages have year round services but on a smallish scale. The low cost of living in Greece Greece enjoys a lower cost of living than some other countries, such as the UK. Hi Wondered about local taxes and costs for electric supplies? I just came back after four years, I don't envy you. Greece has introduced a retirement income tax of 7%. To make sure you get the best value for money, compare international health insurance options from various providers to find the best deal. After this, you will need to apply for permanent residency. The cost of living is fair although its higher than the cost of living in mainland Greece. Like most islands, Crete can be pretty expensive to get going and get set up. And, with such a big island, there are many unexplored roads to discover. Pros and cons of moving to Greece | Expat Arrivals Retiring in Crete Greece How to choose the best place to move to. Corfu doesn't completely close down in winter, especially Corfu town. If you plan on getting a car, which is recommended as public transport is good in the town but unreliable elsewhere, be ready for some strange driving. Your email address will not be published. Rent can be anywhere between 400 to 800, again it depends on the size and style. Didnt find what you were looking for or need further advice? Required fields are marked *. Heraklion's Koules is a beautifully restored fortress surrounding the city's harbor, built by the Venetians in the early 13thcentury. Greece offers everything you could want from a new life abroad, including great weather and lower living costs. Cost is around $2.20. If you plan to stay and/or work on the island for longer than 3 months, you need to sort out your residency. Save. Everything then fell into place little by little, with time. 1.15%. Living In Santorini: Expat Essential Guide | Expatra Most rental agreements require a deposit equivalent to two months rent, and utility bills may or may not be included in the rental price. As with anywhere else, rental prices vary massively depending on the area. You will not save alot of money however it beats working at many places in the US. The capital city of Greece, Athens, is an obvious choice for expats. Visa And Residency Options In Greece For Non-EU Nationals. Anyway must watch more of your videos and read more here. If you want variety and nightlife and plenty to do, moving to Heraklion or the surrounding area would be ideal. These cookies do not store any personal information. But all in all, I can say I feel really safe living in Crete.. 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. I currently live in France, however as far as I am aware since 2005 Residence Permits are no longer required for any EU citizen living in any EU cousntry. There is something for everyone but only if you know where to look. Its very picturesque and has more small villages compared to the north. If youre from the UK and can apply for an S1 form , this will entitle you to state healthcare paid by the British government. 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. Please could you send me details of a recommended estate agent who can help an expat with a house purchase. If you live in Crete all year and dont need to find everything into a two-week holiday window, youll find yourself enjoying the temperate winter months as much, if not more, than summer. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Finally, I also like having tourists join my gastronomic tours of the city every summer, I have fun showing them the alleys of our charming old town and taking them on a savory journey among the staple dishes of our cuisine.. wondering about the daily earthquakes/tremors and what expats feel about these? Language can be a barrier at any age. Copyright 2018-2022. You moved to Crete without knowing the answers to the above questions, I wish you luck. If you know what you are in for and have done plenty of research, moving to Crete may just be the best thing you do. So I need a long term residency permit. Laidback way of living Although summer can be delightful with lots happening, plenty of people, and an enjoyable atmosphere, there remains that calm, relaxed vibe of life on an island. Qualified UK citizens can apply for the S1 form which will grant them access to the Greece public healthcare system paid by the UK. Didnt find what you were looking for or need further advice? There is a big US community thanks to the US military base in the Port of Souda, which is the biggest natural port in the Eastern Mediterranean. Not everyone knows how big Crete is. While you might not have the data speeds youre used to, youll still have mobile signal regardless. I was just wondering if you know anything about the tax situation between Greece and the UK. The Greeks are very big on respecting their elders. Internet Speed In Crete, Can You Work Remotely? This festival involves lots of ceremonies by the water, and youll find lots of swimming events. Just like everything else on the island, house prices can also vary massively. You can check the bus schedule here: https://www.ktelherlas.gr/en/. Both islands have so much to offer in terms of history and culture, so realistically, either island is great to visit as a tourist. 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. Is it a similar situation for us as with UK expats? In the smaller villages, you can find huge villas which attract A-list celebrities and have a matching price tag. However, beaches like Balos, Elafonissi, and Falassarna still make Crete a perfect beachy location. The town also has an annual carnival in August that shouldnt be missed. We use cookies to enhance your experience. Greece has some pretty amazing food. If you like the varying seasons, Crete is for you. Everything goes on according to the Greek philosophy of siga siga which could be roughly translated as slow down. Excellent education, quality of life, welcoming communities and stunning outdoor scenery are just some of the main reasons why people choose to live in Canada as an expat. Author: Sanne WesselmanA traveler, wanderer, digital nomad, and entrepreneur. Some links on this website are affiliate links. Although no simple list of pros and cons will ever be enough for making a decision about something like residency, it at least helps you get an idea of what its like to live in the country. The Greek authorities can refuse your residency for this. Greece has no lower income tax threshold, meaning you pay tax on everything you earn. I have found your website the most informative amidst a lot of confusing misinformation. Especially in Chania, the expat community is huge, and very active. Either way, itll help to bring a translator along just to ensure there are no snags. The INCO, The Cultural Organisation of the Foreign Residents of Aghios Nikolaos, is very busy and an excellent resource for expats in the area. Living on either island is the dream for many. Greece is not known for having a fast bureaucratic system, so youll want to allow as much time as possible to get the paperwork sorted. Youll make social security contributions, usually around 10% of your declared income. Can anyone tell me what might be a good approximate cost for all the following in Crete???? If you plan to study or work in Crete, you will need to apply for an additional permit, but this is less urgent than securing your residency. Moving to Crete - Expat Forum For People Moving Overseas And Living Abroad The rest has to be imported from the mainland. Freestanding and semi-detached houses and cottages are also found throughout the country. Greece enjoys a lower cost of living than some other countries, such as the UK. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Taygetos, residents can enjoy the lush countryside, quiet living and close proximity to the sea. In the summer months, when the middle of the day is very hot, many people take a long lunch. Utility bills are also lower in Greece. While villas and apartment blocks are common in the cities, stone farmhouses are popular in the countryside. Also is there a aldi or lydle in sitia area please. After living in Greece for at least three months, you can apply to the Greek Aliens Bureau via the online website. Not everybody knows that Crete has a mountainous landscape made of high peaks (that even get snow in the winter!) However, a lawyer might offer some kind of solution. You might be able to arrange a shorter let, but this will be on a case-by-case basis. 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. 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. The forms are relatively simple and require similar documents to the residency application. 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). Anything over 40,001 is counted as the highest bracket of 45%. Now because of the current situation of Britain leaving the EU, Brits might have it rough when it comes to retiring in Crete and Greece at large. At the moment information is coming in small doses when it comes to UK nationals settling in the EU. The Living in Crete book The Living in Crete book is a valuable resource giving in-depth and detailed information - all that you need to know before and after a move to Crete or a property purchase - packed with information, advice, tips, useful local addresses, telephone numbers and links. Thank you for the comment. For example, utilities cost around 30% less, internet is 20% less, and renting an apartment in central Athens will set you back at around 670 compared to 3,150 in central London. Heraklion is Cretes capital, and so lots of expats here can help you will official and administrative tasks. Hi everyone! If youre looking for all the amenities you currently enjoy in life then youll need to live in or near a major city, which also means the cost of living will be higher. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The 9 Best Places To Live In Greece For Expats In 2023 When it comes to pubs and drinks, I would have to say that Synagogi Open Bar, in the old Jewish quarter is just the best place with the best music and delicious drinks. 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. 100.000 to 300.000 depending on the size and style. Otherwise, they will only tax your earnings inside the country. In border areas, such as Rhodes and Crete, properties are restricted and your application must go through a committee. Im looking for a guide to applying for the heating allowance. For a flat in a decent part of Chania, or any other major town, youre looking at 350 per month for one bedroom. really helpful guide thanks so much. In Athens, you can expect to pay around 9.50 per square metre, but only 5.25 per square metre in somewhere like rural Thessaloniki. House prices are surprisingly low in Sparta, but this is mainly because of its remote location. here you will find very useful information, and tips about Crete. 1.10%. The fourth-highest number of UK expats living inside its borders, with roughly 531,584 Brits calling Canada home. In this interview, Gabi shares her experiences and practical tips for anyone who is moving to Crete or is simply interested in knowing more about life in Crete. Greece puts a lot of emphasis on family, spending time outdoors, and tradition. It's a good place to come if you're determined to learn the local lingo and get involved with the local community, because there's not such an international crowd as elsewhere. And although Crete is known for its beaches and seaside towns, there is much more to this island. Similarly, food is generally less expensive. This can prove difficult in the first year because you need extra money available, but it gets easier once youre generating income. Expatriates in Greece: Quality and Cost of Living Unfortunately, we cannot help you here as we are not tax specialists. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Either way, its worth it for the new life youll end up living. "Living in Crete. Crete is a great place to retire to at any age. 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. Even if this might sound contradictory, I enjoy driving in Crete. Similarly, Poligiros sits about an hours drive from Thessaloniki, which has an international airport with good connections. Of course, if you do this, you have to accept the risk. Although making the jump to living in a new country can be daunting, its worth taking the chance if you can. Most of these villages are within half an hour's drive of Chania where you can find all the services you need year round, including good local supermarket chains called Marinopoulos and INKA, and also branches of LIDL. If you only have under a year left, renew early before you leave. If you love the idea of living on a Mediterranean island, you may also have considered moving to Cyprus. Generally speaking, an expat with a monthly income of 2,000 will be able to live very comfortably almost anywhere in Greece. There are few major towns in the mountains, so youll get lots of peace and quiet and can descend into the hustle and bustle of the coast when you need to. Lots of building, renovating, road repairs, shop changes, and more happen over the winter months giving the island a different kind of buzz. Another thing that you will find frustrating and I have mentioned this in my other article about moving to Crete, its the slow pace at what things are done, and the laid back attitude of the Greek people, although its a good thing, and that is one of the reasons you want to settle in Crete, it can get very frustrating when you have a leaking sink that needs to be fixed. There is a large British expat community there, in the villages of Plaka, Kokkino Horio, Kalyves and Almerida. Crete; It's the biggest island in the country, and it offers a laid-back pace of life, a warm climate, and wonderful sandy beaches. Life in Crete moves at a slower pace than in other places, particularly when it comes to paperwork. To make sure you get the best value for money, compare international health insurance options from various providers to find the best deal. I wonder if you can help me. Even heading out to a local coffee store will only cost you 3 for a regular coffee. 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.