Greece (GR)

DYPA and the Ministry of Labour operate free or highly subsidised nursery places (παιδικοί σταθμοί) through the "Voucher for Childcare" programme (Κουπόνι Παιδικής Φροντίδας). Eligibility based on household income (priority to working mothers with income under ~€35,000). Available via dypa.gov.gr.

Apply online via dypa.gov.gr for the voucher programme, or directly to your local municipality for public nursery places. Required documents: AMKA, AFM, birth certificate, income declaration.

DYPA childcare vouchers can also be used at certified private nurseries. The voucher covers most or all of the cost for eligible families.

Contact private nurseries directly. Some are DYPA-certified and accept childcare vouchers. Waiting lists in premium areas of Athens (Glyfada, Kifissia, Kolonaki) can be 6–12 months.

Public kindergarten is free and compulsory for 5-year-olds (and available for 4-year-olds). No fees apply to the public system.

Enrol at your local public kindergarten (Νηπιαγωγείο) through the school district (σχολική περιφέρεια). Applications usually open in April–May for the following September. Proof of address and birth certificate required.

Enrol at the nearest local primary school (Δημοτικό) based on your home address. Applications processed at the start of the school year (August–September). Required: birth certificate, AMKA, proof of address, and vaccination records. Greek language preparatory support (τάξεις υποδοχής) is available for non-Greek-speaking children in most schools.

Automatic transfer from primary to the local Gymnasium. Enrolment at Lyceum is also zone-based. Students transferring from abroad need certified translated transcripts. Contact the local Regional Directorate of Education (Περιφερειακή Διεύθυνση Εκπαίδευσης) for overseas credential assessment.

Greek language courses are not formally mandatory for EU citizens but are required at B1 level for naturalisation and A2 for some residence permit renewals. DYPA offers subsidised language courses for registered job seekers. Many municipalities run low-cost Greek courses for migrants.

The official state certification for Greek language proficiency. B1 is required for naturalisation; A2 for long-term residence permit. Exams held twice per year (May and November) at examination centres worldwide.

Greeks have an exceptionally strong culture of private language tuition (frontistiria). English, German, French, and Italian courses widely available. Cambridge, Michigan, and PALSO certifications are widely recognised by Greek employers.