Greece introduces new tech and talent visas, soften rules for EU blue card

Greece has introduced new tech and talent visas. It also softened the rules for the EU Blue Card as part of immigration reforms that reportedly took effect on February 6, 2026. Its aim is to expand high skilled foreign workers in the country.

Greece is trying to attract the highly skilled foreign nationals talent for the boost of their economy. It also simplified procedures for employers and applicants.

As per the new immigration reforms which came in effect from February 6, 2026, a Tech visa was introduced for foreign nationals. It allows holders to work at a registered tech start-up in Greece with immediate work authorisation. Although these visa holders will not be able to change employers, and if they do, they will lose their immigration status, as per the report. 

It also gives visas which are open to foreign nationals with advanced qualifications,at least a Master’s degree that allows them to enter the country and search for employment,known as ‘Talent Visa’. It also clarifies that it does not grant work rights. These two visas are valid for 12 months and allow conversion to an EU blue card.

The reform also includes a Specialized Technical Personnel visa, allowing foreign nationals to transfer from a company in a third country to a Greek company for major projects like industrial, technological, or pharmaceutical projects for a 12 month period. However, there must be a service agreement between the two corporate entities. These visa holders may also convert into EU blue cards, the report states.

Other than above reforms, the validity period for Greek EU blue cards has been extended to two three years. In addition to that, applications can now be submitted up to three months after the permit expires.