Residency Rights after Divorce or Separation in Greece

This service is designed for third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA citizens) who are facing or have recently undergone divorce or legal separation from a Greek or EU citizen spouse, and who currently reside in Greece on a family reunification residence permit.

Whether your relationship ended amicably or under more difficult circumstances, you may still retain the legal right to stay in Greece — particularly if you meet certain qualifying conditions, such as the duration of the marriage, custody of children, or specific vulnerabilities like domestic abuse.

If you are unsure of your current legal standing or risk falling out of lawful residency status, this service will provide clarity, support, and legal representation to secure your right to remain in Greece lawfully.

To retain residency rights in Greece after divorce or separation, you must typically meet at least one of the following conditions:

• Marriage Duration: You were married for at least 3 years, including at least 1 year residing in Greece.

• Custody: You have been granted custody of the children of the marriage.

• Visitation Rights: You maintain visitation rights to minor children residing in Greece.

• Domestic Violence: You were a victim of domestic abuse during the marriage, which may entitle you to a residence permit on humanitarian grounds.

• Independent Financial Means: You can support yourself independently, which may help qualify you for a different type of residence permit.

Supporting documentation — such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees, custody orders, police reports (where applicable), and financial records — will be required as part of your application to remain in Greece.

1. Initial Consultation: Our English-speaking immigration lawyer in Greece will assess your legal situation and determine your eligibility to retain residency.

2. Documentation Review: We help you collect and review all necessary documents including marriage history, proof of residence, custody or visitation orders, and any evidence of domestic violence (if applicable).

3. Application Preparation: We prepare and submit your application to the appropriate immigration authority (Decentralized Administration or the Aliens and Immigration Department).

4. Legal Representation: If required, we provide representation during administrative hearings or appeals.

5. Issuance of New Permit: Once approved, you may receive a new residence permit (e.g. for independent residence, parental responsibility, or humanitarian reasons).

6. Ongoing Support: We continue to monitor the application progress and provide guidance until the new permit is granted.

• Legal Security: Avoid falling into irregular residency status by securing a valid legal pathway to stay in Greece.

• Tailored Advice: Your circumstances are carefully evaluated, and you receive bespoke legal advice based on Greek immigration law.

• Sensitive Support: If your separation involves sensitive issues like domestic violence or custody, our lawyer provides compassionate and confidential support throughout.

• Efficient Navigation: We guide you through the often confusing Greek immigration system, minimizing delays and stress.

• Multilingual Communication: Communicate easily in English while accessing expert legal services in Greece.

• Personalised legal assessment of your eligibility to remain in Greece post-divorce

• Full assistance preparing and submitting your application to Greek immigration authorities

• Advice on switching to another type of residence permit where appropriate

• Legal support in cases involving custody, domestic violence, or humanitarian claims

• Representation at immigration offices or administrative appeals if necessary

• Ongoing legal assistance until a new residence permit is issued