Moving to the UK from Greece: Guide 2026
What you need to know
- •Free movement ended on 31 December 2020. New Greek arrivals need a visa.
- •No TB test required, but English language test IS required.
- •Greece permits dual citizenship with the UK.
- •Budget EUR 5,000 to 10,000 for visa and IHS costs.
- •Long-established Greek community in London, particularly north London.
The Greek community in the UK has deep historical roots, with significant communities established in London since the 1950s. Brexit changed the rules for new Greek arrivals. This guide covers the current visa requirements and practical considerations.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
The Greek Community in the UK
The Greek and Greek Cypriot community in the UK is one of the most established immigrant communities, with roots going back decades. Concentrated in north London (particularly Palmers Green, Southgate, and Wood Green), the community numbers approximately 50,000 to 80,000 Greek nationals plus a larger Greek Cypriot population. Greek Orthodox churches, Greek schools, and cultural organisations are well established.
Visa Routes After Brexit
- Skilled Worker visa. Requires a licensed sponsor at the minimum salary of £38,700.
- Family visa. See the spouse visa guide.
- Student visa. See the student visa guide. Greek students now pay international fees.
- Graduate route. See the Graduate route guide.
Document Requirements
- Valid Greek passport. National ID cards no longer accepted.
- No TB test required.
- English language test. Required. Tests available in Athens and Thessaloniki.
- Poiniko Mitroo. Criminal record certificate from the court of first instance. Processing takes 1 to 3 days.
- Certified translation. Greek documents must be translated into English.
Costs in Euros
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
- Skilled Worker visa fee: £719 to £1,420 (approximately EUR 850 to 1,780)
- IHS (per year): £1,035 (approximately EUR 1,230)
- English test: approximately EUR 200 to 250
See our UK visa fees guide.
After Arrival
- Collect your BRP within 10 days
- Apply for a National Insurance number
- Register with a GP
- Open a UK bank account
Path to Settlement
After 5 years, apply for ILR. After 12 months with ILR, apply for British citizenship. Greece permits dual citizenship.
Next Steps
For official information, visit the GOV.UK EU Settlement Scheme page and the GOV.UK Skilled Worker visa page.
This guide is general immigration information, not immigration advice under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an IAA-authorised adviser or an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.
Related guides
Moving to the UK from India: Complete Guide 2026
Read guideMoving to the UK from Pakistan: Complete Guide 2026
Read guideMoving to the UK from Nigeria: Complete Guide 2026
Read guideMoving to the UK from Bangladesh: Complete Guide 2026
Read guideMoving to the UK from the Philippines: Complete Guide 2026
Read guidePreparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.