Greece Amends Immigration Code with Law 5275/2026

On February 6, 2026, Greece enacted Law 5275/2026, introducing substantial amendments to the nation's Immigration Code. This reform aligns Greek legislation with Directive (EU) 2024/1233 and aims to modernize the residence and work permit framework, facilitating legal migration and enhancing administrative efficiency.

Key Provisions of Law 5275/2026

The law establishes a single application procedure for obtaining both residence and work permits. This unified approach simplifies the admission process for third-country nationals and streamlines administrative procedures, reducing bureaucratic delays.

New visa categories are introduced to attract skilled professionals and address specific labor market needs. These targeted pathways aim to make Greece a more attractive destination for talent and investment.

The reform includes provisions to expedite residence permits for individuals involved in strategic investment projects. This measure is designed to encourage foreign investment and stimulate economic growth.

Administrative mechanisms are overhauled to improve processing times and enhance transparency. The law introduces automated workload allocation across regional authorities and sets clear timelines for application processing.

Implementation and Impact

By implementing these reforms, Greece aims to create a more efficient and attractive environment for legal migration. The alignment with EU directives ensures consistency with European standards, while the modernization efforts are expected to benefit both migrants and the Greek economy.

Overall, Law 5275/2026 represents a significant step forward in Greece's immigration policy, reflecting a commitment to facilitating legal migration and integrating third-country nationals into the labor market effectively.