auswandern-kreta
auswandern-kreta
auswandern-kreta
Emigrating to Crete: Your stress-free fresh start under the sun of Greece
Crete entices with its mild climate, friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle. But how does the move really succeed? This article provides you with a comprehensive guide for your emigration to Crete. From planning to arrival – find out what you need to pay attention to. Do you need personal advice? Contact us for individual support.
The topic short and concise
Crete entices with its mild climate, friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle. But how does the move really succeed? This article provides you with a comprehensive guide for your emigration to Crete. From planning to arrival – find out what you need to pay attention to. Do you need personal advice? Contact us for individual support.
Crete entices with its mild climate, friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle. But how does the move really succeed? This article provides you with a comprehensive guide for your emigration to Crete. From planning to arrival – find out what you need to pay attention to. Do you need personal advice? Contact us for individual support.
Crete entices with its mild climate, friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle. But how does the move really succeed? This article provides you with a comprehensive guide for your emigration to Crete. From planning to arrival – find out what you need to pay attention to. Do you need personal advice? Contact us for individual support.
Dreaming of a life in Crete? Discover everything about visa regulations, buying property, job searching, and cultural integration. We'll show you how to successfully make your dream of emigrating to Crete a reality!
Overview of Crete's Attractiveness for Expats
Every year, Crete attracts numerous people who are longing for a new chapter in their lives. The Mediterranean climate, the fascinating culture, and the sun-drenched beaches make the island an attractive destination for expats. In 2021, for instance, 1,128 Germans chose to start a new life in Crete, highlighting the island's popularity. But what makes Crete so special and what aspects should you consider when planning your move?
Why Crete?
Crete offers numerous benefits that make life there particularly appealing. These include a relaxed lifestyle, the hospitality of the locals, and over 300 days of sunshine per year. These factors contribute to many expats quickly feeling at home on the island, finding a new place to belong. The ZDF documentary about emigrating to Crete highlights the experiences of German expats who are drawn by the relaxed lifestyle, friendly locals, and sunny weather.
Target Audience of This Guide
This guide is aimed at various groups of people considering relocating to Crete. Whether you are a German national planning a fresh start, a retiree wanting to spend your retirement on the island, a digital nomad who can work from anywhere, or an entrepreneur looking for business opportunities – this article provides you with valuable information and practical tips for a successful start in Greece.
Who Benefits from This Article?
This guide is especially useful for:
German nationals planning a fresh start in Crete.
Retirees wanting to spend their retirement on the island.
Digital nomads who can work from anywhere.
Entrepreneurs seeking business opportunities in Crete.
With this article, we want to help you realize your dream of emigrating to Crete successfully. Our article on emigrating as a German provides additional general information that could be useful for your planning.
Preparation, Planning, and Integration. Take ample time to plan and prepare all aspects of your move. Learn about Greek laws and regulations, get to know the Greek language and culture, and build a social network.
Crete as an Attractive Destination for Expats
Crete is an attractive destination for expats longing for a relaxed lifestyle, a mild climate, and a rich culture. The island offers a high quality of life, friendly people, and diverse landscapes. With the right preparation and mindset, you can realize your dream of living in Crete.
Quality of Life, Climate, Culture
Crete offers a high quality of life, a mild climate, and a rich culture. The island is renowned for its beautiful beaches, impressive mountains, and historical sites. The people are friendly and welcoming, and life is relaxed and leisurely.
Outlook for the Future
The trend towards emigrating to Crete is expected to continue. More and more people are seeking a new chapter in a sunny and relaxed environment. The digitalization and the possibility of working from anywhere also contribute to making Crete an attractive destination for many.
Trends and Developments in Emigration to Crete
In the area of emigration to Crete, there are various trends and developments. For instance, the number of digital nomads settling on the island is increasing. Tourism also plays an increasingly significant role, and new business opportunities are emerging for expats. It is important to keep these trends and developments in mind to make the right decisions for your future.
GoMovin is happy to assist you with your move to Crete. We offer comprehensive advice and support at every step of your move, from planning to execution. Contact us today for a non-binding offer. Visit our relocation assistance page for more information on our services. We look forward to supporting you with your emigration to Crete! Contact us now!
Secure a Residence Permit: Mastering the Bureaucracy
The legal and bureaucratic aspects are a crucial part of emigration. In particular, the residence permit and visa requirements require careful attention. As an EU citizen, you enjoy freedom of movement, but you still need to register with the local authorities and apply for a tax number (AFM) (kretatipp.de). For a longer stay, proof of employment/income (around €4,000 - €5,000 in a Greek bank account), health insurance, and a place of residence are required.
Non-EU citizens require a visa for stays longer than 90 days, depending on the purpose (perspektiveausland.com). It is recommended to apply for the residence permit before entering the country (kretatipp.de). After five years of legal residence, you can apply for a long-term EU residence permit (kretatipp.de). The purchase of real estate in Crete is generally possible for foreigners but requires hiring a lawyer, applying for a Greek tax number (AFM), and opening a Greek bank account (perspektiveausland.com). The property acquisition tax is 3.09% of the purchase price (perspektiveausland.com).
Health insurance is also an important aspect. EU citizens can usually use their European Health Insurance Card (umziehen.de), while non-EU citizens need to take out private health insurance or contribute to the Greek social security system (kretatipp.de). At GoMovin, we assist you with all legal issues and help you obtain the necessary documents.
Living and Working in Crete: How to Organise Your Daily Life
Starting a new life in Crete means engaging with local conditions. This involves both living, the job market, and cost of living. Research rental and property prices before making a decision. When renovating older properties, consider the costs of electrics, plumbing, and insulation (perspektiveausland.com).
The job market in Crete is heavily influenced by tourism. There are seasonal job opportunities, but also high unemployment, particularly outside the season. Therefore, plan for financial reserves (perspektiveausland.com). If you wish to start your own business, there are various possibilities, such as care services for retirees, cafés, or language schools (perspektiveausland.com). Online shops for Cretan products or tourist services like cooking classes or guided tours can also be an option (perspektiveausland.com). Digital nomads benefit from good internet connections in most areas (perspektiveausland.com).
The cost of living in Crete is lower compared to Western Europe (perspektiveausland.com). Nevertheless, you should have realistic expectations and adjust to local prices (volksstimme.de). We at GoMovin help you find your way in your new everyday life and assist with finding accommodation and job placement.
Promoting Integration: How to Become Part of Cretan Culture
An important aspect of emigration is integrating into the local community. Greek language skills are a great advantage in this (perspektiveausland.com, kretatipp.de). Understanding cultural differences and local customs (hospitality, kinship) is also crucial (kretatipp.de). Greek bureaucracy requires patience (perspektiveausland.com, focus.de). Seek out contact with expat and local communities to settle in more quickly (kretatipp.de).
To make your start easier, we at GoMovin offer cultural training that prepares you for the peculiarities of life in Crete. We impart the essential basics of the Greek language and culture and help you make connections. This way, you'll feel at home quickly and become part of the community.
Integrating into a new culture is an ongoing process that requires time and dedication. Be open to new experiences and learn from the locals. With our support, you'll overcome this challenge and successfully shape your new life in Crete.
Getting Around Crete: How to Travel from A to B
Mobility is a key factor for living independently in Crete. The KTEL bus network offers an affordable way to explore the island (perspektiveausland.com). However, for more flexibility, a car or rental car is recommended (perspektiveausland.com). Be sure to observe the Greek traffic regulations (perspektiveausland.com).
At GoMovin, we support you in organising your mobility. We advise you on choosing the right mode of transport and help you rent or purchase a car. We also assist you with applying for a Greek driving licence.
With the right mobility, you can fully enjoy the beauty of Crete and actively shape your new life. Whether you want to explore the picturesque villages, hike through the impressive mountain landscapes, or relax on the stunning beaches – with us, you are mobile and flexible.
Overcoming Challenges: How to Successfully Restart
Emigrating to Crete is not without its challenges. The bureaucracy, seasonal fluctuations in the job market, and cultural adaptation can present difficulties. It is advisable to get support from a lawyer to navigate the Greek bureaucracy (focus.de). Plan for financial reserves during the off-season to balance out income fluctuations (perspektiveausland.com). Learn Greek and integrate into the local culture to overcome the language barrier (kretatipp.de).
At GoMovin, we offer you comprehensive support in tackling these challenges. Our experts are familiar with the local conditions and help you make the right decisions. We assist you with administrative procedures, offer language courses, and connect you with local networks.
With our help, you will overcome the challenges of emigration and make your new start in Crete a success. We are your reliable partner and accompany you on your way to a new life under the sun of Greece.
Finding Inspiration: Success Stories of Other Expats
Be inspired by the experiences of other expats. Documentaries and blogs like the ZDF documentary, auswander-tagebuch.com and feelslikecrete.com offer valuable insights and suggestions. Learn from the success stories of Martina Manouras (boat rental), Oliver Weers (craft beer), and Gabriella Damianaki (hotel revitalisation) (zdf.de).
Many expats take the opportunity to pursue their personal passions and change their career paths. A career switch or lifestyle change can open up new perspectives (zdf.de). We at GoMovin support you in realising your individual goals and unlocking your full potential.
The stories of other expats show that a successful fresh start in Crete is possible. With courage, determination, and the right support, you can fulfil your dream of life under the Greek sun. We are here to assist you with advice and support, helping you to write your own success story.
Conclusion: With GoMovin, your relaxed new beginning in Crete is a success
Thorough preparation, considering legal aspects, and integrating into the local culture are crucial for a successful new start in Crete. The move to Crete can be an exciting and fulfilling adventure if you are well-prepared and have the right partners by your side. At GoMovin, we offer you the comprehensive support you need for a relaxed and successful new beginning. We take care of all the details, from planning to arrival, and help you settle quickly into your new life.
Consider current developments and trends, such as EU migration policy and digitalisation, to prepare optimally for your relocation. With GoMovin, you are well-equipped to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities that Crete offers you. We accompany you on your journey to a new life under the Greek sun and are at your side at any time with advice and assistance.
Key Benefits of Auswandern nach Kreta with GoMovin
Here are some of the key benefits you'll gain:
Stress-Free Relocation: We handle all the logistics, from packing to transportation, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free move.
Expert Legal Support: Our legal experts guide you through the complex Greek bureaucracy, helping you obtain the necessary permits and navigate legal requirements.
Cultural Integration: We provide cultural training and language support to help you integrate into the local community and build meaningful connections.
Are you ready for your new life in Crete? Contact us today for personal advice and let us make your dream a reality together. Visit our contact page to learn more.
Further useful links
The European Commission provides legal information for EU citizens concerning the right of free movement.
The Institut der Deutschen Wirtschaft (IW) provides information on the economic aspects of emigration.
The Deutsche Gesetzliche Unfallversicherung (DGUV) offers health and insurance information for emigrants.
FAQ
What documents do I need as an EU citizen to immigrate to Crete?
As an EU citizen, you only need your valid identity card or passport. Within three months, you must register with the local authorities (foreigners' police or local police) and apply for a residence card (residence permit).
How much money should I have at least in a Greek bank account to register in Crete as an EU citizen?
It is recommended to show €4,000-5,000 in a Greek bank account as proof of being able to support yourself without relying on state assistance. Additionally, you should have a financial buffer of €10,000-20,000 for unexpected expenses.
Can I keep my German health insurance as a retiree if I emigrate to Crete?
Yes, as a retiree, you may be able to retain your German health insurance. However, be sure to clarify this in advance with your health insurance provider.
What business opportunities are there in Crete?
The tourism sector offers numerous opportunities, particularly seasonal jobs. Other options include setting up an online shop for local products, agriculture (organic products), or craft beer production.
Where can I find support and connections to other expats in Crete?
There are various online communities, local groups, and family networks that can help you with integration. The website feelslikecrete.com also offers valuable insights and support.
What tax identification number do I need in Greece?
You need a Greek tax number (AFM) to conduct business, open a bank account, or purchase property in Crete. Applying for it might require legal assistance.
What should I consider when buying a property outside cities and villages?
Ensure the land is at least 2,000 sq meters, located on a public road, and not in a state forest, near a lighthouse, or in a military exclusion zone.
How do I find an apartment or house in Crete?
Popular areas include the coastal towns of Chania and Rethymno. More affordable options can be found in rural regions. Decide whether you want to buy or rent a property.
