How Long Can a US Citizen Stay in Greece?
The length of time a U.S. citizen can stay in Greece depends on whether it’s a short visit or a residency-based stay.
Short-Term Stay Without a Visa
Americans can stay:
Up to 90 days within any 180-day period
Anywhere in the Schengen Zone (includes Greece)
This means your time in Greece counts toward the 90-day Schengen limit as a whole.
Important Rules
90 days total in Schengen, not just Greece
Passport must be valid for 3+ months beyond the stay
No working for Greek companies without a permit
Long-Term Stay (Over 90 Days)
To remain in Greece beyond 90 days, Americans must secure a Type D visa and then a residency permit.
Common options include:
Digital Nomad Visa
Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa
Golden Visa
Student Visa
Family Reunification
Employment-based permits
Each visa allows extended stays ranging from 1 to 5 years, depending on the type.
Can You Reset the 90-Day Clock?
No.
Leaving the Schengen Area does not immediately reset your allowance. You must wait until enough days fall outside the rolling 180-day window.
Bottom Line
Short visits are simple, but long-term living requires the right visa. With residency, U.S. citizens can stay as long as their permit remains valid.
Use CitizenGR to streamline your application.
Download the CitizenGR app for residency tracking, Schengen calculators, and expert guidance.
