Guide for International Students

To support international students coming from countries outside the European Union (third-country nationals), Harokopio University provides a concise guide answering the most common questions about studying and living in Greece.

Understanding the procedures for the entry visa (VISA) and the residence permit, as well as your rights and obligations as a student, is essential for a smooth transition and a successful academic experience.

• Entry into Greece and Student VISA
• Residence Permit for Studies
• Required Documents
• Financial Requirements
• Right to Work
• Travel and Mobility
• Family-Related Matters
• Student Obligations
• Student Rights
• After Graduation
• The Greek Academic ID and Cost of Living
• Study in Greece Platforms
• Learning Basic Greek
• Support at Harokopio University

Entry into Greece and Student VISA

All students from non-EU countries must obtain a special student entry visa (Type D Student VISA) before arriving in Greece. This also applies to nationals of countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia and Argentina, which are otherwise exempt from short-term tourist visa requirements in the Schengen Area.

The student visa is issued by the competent Greek Consular Authority or Embassy in your country of residence and must be obtained before you make any travel arrangements. Begin the application early, as processing times vary by country.

Residence Permit for Studies

After arriving in Greece, non-EU students must apply for a residence permit for study purposes in order to reside legally in the country for the duration of their studies. Apply promptly after arrival and well before your student VISA expires.

Key points:

• The application must be submitted before the student VISA expires.
• It is processed by the competent Immigration Authority.
• An interview or additional documentation may be required.
• Submission of biometric data may be required.
• The permit is valid for one academic year and can be renewed annually, subject to satisfactory academic progress.

Required Documents

To obtain a residence permit for study purposes, students are generally required to submit the following documents:

• A valid passport with the appropriate student VISA (Type D), and recent passport-size photographs.
• A certificate of enrollment or official acceptance to the Information Technology undergraduate programme at Harokopio University.
• Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses (approximately €500 per month, unless covered by a scholarship).
• Valid health insurance covering the whole duration of your stay in Greece.
• A medical certificate, where required by the competent authorities.
• Additional documents, such as official translations or certified copies, depending on your individual circumstances.

Please consult the relevant Greek Consular Authorities and Immigration Services for the most up-to-date requirements before submitting your application.

Financial Requirements

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your studies in Greece. This is required both for the issuance and for the renewal of a residence permit.

Acceptable proof includes personal or family bank statements, scholarship certificates, sponsorship declarations or other official financial documents. Students on a scholarship may be exempt from certain requirements with appropriate documentation.

The indicative minimum amount is approximately €500 per month.

Right to Work

Holders of a valid residence permit may be permitted to work during their studies, in accordance with Greek immigration and labour legislation. Employment is allowed on a part-time basis only and requires official authorization. Work must not interfere with your academic obligations and must comply with Greek labour, insurance and tax regulations.

You will typically need:

• a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM),
• a Social Security Number (AMKA),
• any additional documentation required by the employer or public authorities.

Travel and Mobility

With a valid residence permit you may travel under the conditions provided by applicable European and Greek regulations. Always carry your valid passport, residence permit and any additional travel documents.

• Home country: you may travel to your home country and re-enter Greece without a new student VISA.
• Schengen Area: you may travel within the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 3 months within a 6-month period.
• Erasmus+: you may have the opportunity to participate in Erasmus+ and other exchange programmes, depending on programme regulations and active partnerships.

Family-Related Matters

Under the current Greek immigration framework, family reunification rights are generally not granted to international students holding a residence permit for studies. Family members who wish to visit must typically enter Greece with a short-term tourist visa or under the applicable Schengen short-stay rules. A student residence permit does not automatically give residence rights to family members or dependents.

For specific cases or exceptional circumstances, contact the competent Greek Consular Authorities or Immigration Services.

Student Obligations

International students must:

• renew their residence permit within the required deadlines,
• promptly declare changes in personal details (address, marital status, passport, contact details) to the competent authorities,
• comply with Greek laws, immigration regulations and university policies,
• maintain satisfactory academic progress and remain actively enrolled.

Failure to comply may result in delays, non-renewal, suspension or revocation of the residence permit.

Student Rights

International students at Harokopio University are entitled to:

• access to healthcare services, in accordance with the applicable legal and insurance framework,
• participation in academic, cultural, athletic and social student life,
• access to public services and administrative support procedures,
• equal treatment and protection under the Greek Constitution, European legislation and relevant international conventions.

After Graduation

After completing your studies you are generally required to leave Greece when your residence permit expires, unless you qualify for a different type of legal residence status. Options include:

• continuing with a postgraduate or doctoral programme,
• participating in academic or research activities,
• applying for another type of residence permit, subject to the requirements of Greek legislation.

Any change of residence status is subject to approval by the competent Greek authorities. Seek information in good time before your permit expires.

The Greek Academic ID and Cost of Living

All students of Greek Higher Education Institutions can apply online for the Greek Academic ID, which is provided by the Ministry of Education with technical support from the National Research and Technology Network (GRNET). Apply on the official platform: paso.minedu.gov.gr.

The Academic ID offers, among others:

• Transportation: 50% off public transport (buses, metro, tram) in major cities, and reduced fares for intercity buses (KTEL), trains, ferries and certain domestic flights.
• Culture: free or discounted entry to museums, archaeological sites, theatres and cinemas, and discounts on festivals and concerts.
• Dining: subsidized meals at university cafeterias and discounts at student-friendly cafés and restaurants.
• Technology and retail: reduced prices on laptops, electronics, educational software, books and study materials.
• Healthcare: free or subsidized healthcare services at student clinics and public hospitals.

Indicative monthly costs for students in Greece:

Greece is generally a safe country, but it is wise to remain vigilant, especially when moving around big cities at night.

Study in Greece Platforms

Study in Greece is a non-profit organisation of Greek universities that provides information and support for studying and living in Greece. Its digital platforms cover:

• @SiG: build a profile, compare programmes of Greek universities and apply.
• HouSiG: a housing service for international students, from furnished studios to shared residences.
• Scholarships: a searchable list of scholarships, awards and grants, including open and upcoming calls.
• HelpDesk: a knowledge base and ticket system for questions and support.

Further details and links are available on the Study in Greece page of the DIT international website, together with the Study in Greece guides on the visa, preparation before arrival and the survival guide.

Learning Basic Greek

Harokopio University offers an introductory course in Greek for international students, including a short quiz to test what you have learned. See Basic Greek.

Support at Harokopio University

Harokopio University and its administrative services provide guidance on:

• residence procedures,
• academic matters,
• adjusting to life in Athens.

For questions about the BSc in Information Technology itself, such as admissions, the curriculum or tuition fees, please contact the Department directly. More information for prospective students is available on the DIT international website.