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Greece
Athens
EU clears digital euro rules for 2029 launch to Greek merchants
The European Central Bank is moving closer to launching a digital euro to reduce reliance on US-based payment systems like Visa and Mastercard. For expats and nomads in Greece, this could eventually offer a government-backed alternative for local payments and cross-border transactions within the eurozone.
Portugal uses Eurodac and ESP to track non-EU travelers at Schengen borders
The EU has activated the first phase of the new Eurodac system and the European Search Portal to modernize border data infrastructure. These interoperable IT systems allow authorities to instantly verify biometric data and track entry/exit history for all non-EU travelers across the Schengen Area.
Greece bans short term rentals for 800,000 euro Golden Visa units
The Greek government's 2026–2035 housing strategy introduces a new Golden Visa category for investors who commit to long-term rental contracts. This new path explicitly excludes short-term tourist rentals like Airbnb to increase the availability of permanent housing for residents.
The small print in the limited validity ETIAS for humanitarian emergencies
The European Union has introduced a restricted ETIAS version for travelers with humanitarian needs or urgent obligations. This authorization is valid for a maximum of 90 days and only permits entry into the specific countries listed on the application.
Greece drafts 15% crypto tax for Digital Nomad Visa holders
Greece is implementing a new 15% capital gains tax on digital asset profits exceeding €500 starting in 2026. This policy change directly impacts the financial planning of crypto-holding digital nomads and expats residing in the country.
EU confirms ETIAS will start in the last quarter for 60 nations
The European Union confirmed that the ETIAS pre-travel authorization system for visa-free nationals is now scheduled to go live in late 2026. Travelers from over 60 countries will eventually need this digital permit to enter the Schengen Area for short stays.
EU extends detention to 30 months for irregular stays in Portugal
The EU approved a new Return Regulation allowing for deportation centers outside the bloc and tougher entry bans for those without legal status. While targeting irregular migration, the law expands police powers to verify residency documents for all foreign residents across the Schengen Area.
EU Single Digital Booking regulation grants tourists 50% refund for rail delays
On 2026-05-13, the European Commission proposed EU-wide rules to make cross-border rail travel easier, including single-ticket booking across multiple operators and stronger protection for missed connections. This matters for travelers and nomads using rail networks across Europe because it would reduce fragmentation and improve refunds, rerouting, and compensation.
EU Pact on Migration and Asylum starts applying 10 laws on June 12
The European Commission said the Pact on Migration and Asylum is on track for full application on 2026-06-12, with key border screening and procedure systems now largely in place. Travelers, expats, and digital nomads entering or moving within the EU should expect further operational changes at external borders as member states finish implementation.
EU gives travelers 14 days for cash refunds under revised directive
The updated EU Package Travel Directive took effect on 2026-05-27, strengthening refund, voucher, and insolvency-protection rules for package travellers across the EU. Nomads and expats who book package trips in Europe should note clearer complaint deadlines and better protections if an organiser becomes insolvent.
Greece confirms EES biometric checks for UK and US travelers
Greece has rejected reports of exemptions for British travelers, confirming that the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is fully operational. Non-EU visitors should expect biometric data collection instead of traditional passport stamps at all Greek airports and border points.
Why Greece Remains a Top Choice Despite Rising Costs
On April 7, 2026, Greek Reporter published an analysis noting that Greece’s cost of living continues to rise (especially housing), making it less affordable for locals but still attractive for digital nomads and remote workers earning in stronger foreign currencies, whose purchasing power remains strong compared to Western Europe/North America. This updates perceptions for expats and nomads considering relocation in 2026.
EES now replaces passport stamps at Schengen borders
The EU's new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) will automate border controls across 29 Schengen countries, digitizing stay tracking and replacing physical passport stamps for non-EU travelers.
Greece Updates Residence and Work Permit Rules
Greece is introducing a 'Single Permit' reform that merges the visa and residence permit into a single application process, eliminating the current two-step system. Starting in 2026, permits will no longer be backdated, with validity beginning on the actual date of issuance.
Understanding the Greece Golden Visa Requirements
The Greek government has increased the Golden Visa investment threshold to €800,000 in high-demand locations including Athens, Thessaloniki, and popular islands. This change significantly raises the financial barrier for expats seeking residency through real estate investment in the country's most popular regions.