Structured Arrival Plan for Greece

Essential Tasks

• Check in to your accommodation: Verify all facilities work properly in Greece. Take photos of any existing damage upon arrival for documentation. Exchange contact information with your landlord or housing coordinator. Understand how to operate appliances (e.g., water heater, air conditioning) and security systems. Keep your passport and visa/residence permit readily accessible for check-in.
• Activate a local SIM card: Major Greece mobile carriers include Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind (now Nova). You can find their stores in city centers, shopping malls, and sometimes at the airport. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for a basic prepaid SIM with some data and calls. Student plans often require your university ID or student visa. You'll need your passport for registration.
• Contact home: Let family know you've arrived safely in Greece. Use your new local SIM or Wi-Fi calling apps (WhatsApp, Viber, Messenger) to connect. Be mindful of the time difference (Eastern European Time, EET) when calling.
• Get essential groceries: Find nearby supermarkets in Greece like Sklavenitis, AB Vassilopoulos, Lidl, or My Market. Buy bottled water (tap water is generally safe but bottled is preferred by many), snacks, breakfast items (e.g., bread, cheese, yogurt), basic toiletries (soap, toilet paper), and any immediate necessities. Look for small 'mini markets' for quick buys if a large supermarket isn't nearby.

Quick Tips

Campus & Administration

• Visit the International Office: Every Greek university has an office dedicated to international students, often called the 'International Relations Office' or 'Erasmus Office' (even for non-Erasmus students). They are your primary point of contact for visa and residency permit guidance (e.g., assisting with the initial 'Type D' visa conversion to a residency permit), course registration assistance, academic advising specific to the Greek higher education system, and general support for adapting to life in Greece. They can also help with understanding the Greek grading system and academic regulations.
• Complete mandatory registration: Upon arrival, you must formally register with your university. This typically involves presenting your passport, Type D National Visa, acceptance letter, and proof of health insurance. You will receive your student ID (πάσο), which is crucial for discounts. Crucially, within 30 days of your arrival, you must apply for your Greek residency permit (Άδεια Διαμονής) at the local Aliens and Immigration Department (Διεύθυνση Αλλοδαπών και Μετανάστευσης). The International Office will provide detailed instructions and often assist with the application process and required documents (e.g., proof of sufficient funds, health certificate from a Greek public hospital, proof of accommodation).
• Explore banking options: Major banks in Greece that offer student accounts include National Bank of Greece (Εθνική Τράπεζα), Piraeus Bank (Τράπεζα Πειραιώς), Alpha Bank (Alpha Bank), and Eurobank (Eurobank). To open an account, you will typically need your passport, your university acceptance letter or student ID, and a Greek Tax Identification Number (ΑΦΜ - AFIMI), which you can obtain from the local Tax Office (Εφορία - Eforia). Some banks may also require proof of address. Student accounts often offer lower fees and sometimes specific benefits like free debit cards or online banking services.

Local Orientation

• Explore your neighborhood: Take time to walk around your campus and local area. Identify key locations such as the nearest supermarket (e.g., Sklavenitis, AB Vassilopoulos, Lidl), pharmacy (φαρμακείο), bakery (φούρνος), and local tavernas or cafes. Note the location of your nearest police station and public health center (Κέντρο Υγείας). Familiarize yourself with the layout of the university campus, including lecture halls, libraries, and student services buildings.
• Learn public transportation: Greece's major cities (Athens, Thessaloniki) have extensive public transportation networks including buses, trolleys, and metro (Athens). In Athens, the 'Ath.ena Card' is a rechargeable smart card used for all public transport. In Thessaloniki, the 'Thessaloniki Public Transport Card' (OASTH) is used. You can purchase and top-up these cards at metro stations, kiosks, and ticket vending machines. Student discounts (μειωμένο εισιτήριο) are available upon presentation of your Greek student ID (πάσο). Useful apps include 'OASA Telematics' for Athens and 'OASTH' for Thessaloniki, providing real-time bus tracking and route planning.
• Find essential services: Locate your university's health center (often within the campus or affiliated with a public hospital), security offices, main library (βιβλιοθήκη), student dining halls (λέσχη), and recreational facilities (e.g., gym, sports courts). Also, identify local KEP (Κέντρα Εξυπηρέτησης Πολιτών - Citizen Service Centers) offices, which are crucial for various administrative tasks in Greece, such as obtaining official documents or certifications.

Official Registration

• Complete university enrollment: Upon arrival, you'll need to finalize your university enrollment. This typically involves presenting original documents (passport, visa, high school/previous university transcripts), confirming your tuition payment, and providing updated contact information. Some universities may require a health certificate or specific immunization records, so check with your institution's international office beforehand. Ensure all required documents are translated into Greek by a certified translator if not already in English.
• Complete mandatory check-in: For non-EU/EEA students, it is mandatory to register your presence with the local Aliens Department (Διεύθυνση Αλλοδαπών) within a specified period (usually 30-90 days) of your arrival to apply for your residence permit. Missing this deadline can lead to fines, difficulties with your residence permit application, and potential deportation. Your university's international office will provide guidance on this process, including required documents like proof of accommodation, health insurance, and sufficient funds.
• Course registration: Course registration in Greek universities typically occurs shortly after enrollment. You will usually meet with an academic advisor (often assigned by your department) to discuss your study plan and select courses. Most universities use online platforms (e.g., 'Eudoxus' for textbook distribution, or specific university portals like 'My-Studies' for course selection) for registration. Be aware that popular courses can fill up quickly, so register promptly.

Social & Practical

• Attend orientation events: Greek universities host various orientation events designed to help new students integrate. These often include general university orientations, faculty-specific sessions, and dedicated international student orientations. These events cover academic expectations, campus resources, student life, and practical advice for living in Greece. They are excellent opportunities to meet fellow students and staff.
• Open a bank account: Opening a bank account in Greece is crucial for managing your finances. Major banks include National Bank of Greece (Ethniki Trapeza), Piraeus Bank, Alpha Bank, and Eurobank. Requirements for international students typically include your passport, a valid visa/residence permit, proof of address in Greece (e.g., rental agreement, utility bill in your name), and your Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM - Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου), which you will need to obtain first at a tax office (Eforia).
• Understand health insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for non-EU/EEA students applying for a residence permit in Greece. You must have private health insurance that covers medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation for the duration of your stay. EU/EEA students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). For others, ensure your policy meets the Greek requirements. Public healthcare (ESY) is available, but private insurance is often preferred for faster access and broader coverage. Your university's international office can recommend local insurance providers or confirm policy requirements.