Your Journey to AUTh
Support Every Step of the Way
At the Faculty of Law of Aristotle University, we believe that your only concern should be your studies and your new life in Thessaloniki. We understand that relocating to a new country comes with questions and administrative steps, which is why we have built a support system that accompanies you from day one. From visa applications and tax registration to opening a bank account and finding accommodation, our programme support team is here to make every step manageable. You are not doing this alone.
A nationally recognised
EU degree
The process begins immediately after your successful admission:
- Welcome email: You receive an official message with congratulations and instructions for accepting your offer.
- Enrolment confirmation: Your place is formally secured upon payment of the tuition deposit, following the instructions provided by the Faculty.
Visa
and Pre-Arrival
Timely visa processing is essential for your arrival in Greece:
- EU Citizens (and Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland): No entry visa is required. Α valid passport or national ID (valid at least until the end of next year) is sufficient for arrival. Once in Greece, we will assist you in obtaining a residence permit for educational purposes.
- Non-EU: Students with a valid passport from a non-EU country or a Schengen non-EU country (valid at least until the end of next year) should first contact the Greek Embassy or Consulate in their home country, in order to issue an entry permit (VISA type H.1) for study purposes valid for a year. Among other documents, the Embassy will require a certificate of enrollment in our School and proof of payment of partial tuition fee payment. The Faculty provides the necessary enrolment certificate and proof of tuition payment to support your application.
- Under-18 applicants: All students under the age of 18 must provide a solemn declaration signed by parents or guardians, translated in Greek and certified by the Greek Embassy/Consulate stating that they consent to their child’s entrance into Greece for study purposes.
- Accommodation planning: Finding housing in Thessaloniki can take time, so we recommend starting early. Our Student Services team provides guidance on neighbourhoods, lease documentation, and trusted platforms to help you secure your apartment before arrival.
Tax
Registration Number (AFM)
A tax number is mandatory for everyone over 18 in Greece and is required for banking, residence permits, and insurance.
- Process: Handled electronically with guidance from our office.
- Tax representative: Non-EU students require a legal representative.
- Insurance: A basic health insurance policy must be obtained in parallel, as it is a prerequisite for the residence permit.
Bank
Account
Opening a bank account is an important step for living and studying in Greece, but you won’t go through it alone. You will need:
- Tax number (AFM) and passport
- Lease agreement registered on Taxisnet (in your name)
- Greek mobile phone number
- Student enrolment certificate from the Faculty
We recommend scheduling your bank appointment early, as processing times can be significant.
Residence Permit
(non-EU students)
Your residence permit application is typically submitted by December, ensuring coverage for the full duration of your studies.
Required documents:
- Certified passport copy (certified by a Greek lawyer; cost covered by the Faculty)
- Health insurance certificate and student enrolment certificate
- KEP declaration confirming minimum €650 per month in your bank account
- Government fees (€150 + €16) and 4 passport photos with CD
- Biometrics: Our office assists with scheduling biometric data appointments.
Health & Life
Insurance
A. EU Citizens In accordance with National Regulations, students who are European citizens must choose one of the following options for their health coverage:
- Private Health Insurance: A private program valid in Greece. A copy of the policy must be submitted to the International LL.B. Studies Services Office upon arrival.
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): A copy of the card must be submitted to the LL.B. Studies Services Office upon arrival.
B. Non-EU/Schengen Citizens In accordance with National Regulations, students from non-EU or non-Schengen countries are required to hold a health insurance contract with specific coverages mandated by Greek law. This is a strict prerequisite for your residence permit application.
- Estimated Cost: The cost of the contract typically ranges from 70€ to 190€ (depending on coverage, age, etc.).
- Assistance: Our office will provide further information and assistance regarding the signing of this contract upon your arrival in Greece.
Social Security Number
(AMKA)
Required for prescription medication in Greece.
- Process: In-person application at EFKA offices.
- Documents: Passport, translated birth certificate, tax number, student enrolment certificate, and lease agreement.
Ongoing
Support
Our support continues throughout your studies:
- Submission of grade reports to the Regional Authority for residence permit maintenance
- Insurance renewal monitoring
- Referrals to psychological support and social services where needed
- Assistance with dual nationality issues or public health prescriptions
Thessaloniki
Your Home in the Mediterranean
You are not just choosing a university. You are choosing the city that will shape your memories for a lifetime. Thessaloniki, the co-capital of Greece, is a place where 2,300 years of history meet the youthful energy of the largest student community in Southeast Europe. Vibrant, cosmopolitan, and welcoming, Thessaloniki offers the ideal setting for your legal studies, combining academic prestige with an exceptional quality of life.
Why You
Will Love It
A city that never sleeps: From the traditional tavernas of Ladadika to the modern cafes along the waterfront, the city is alive around the clock. Everything is within walking distance.
Cultural depth: UNESCO monuments, Byzantine walls, and Roman markets blend with contemporary art and international festivals, including the Thessaloniki International Film Festival.
The sea at your doorstep: The iconic Nea Paralia waterfront is where every student ends up. A five-kilometre walk along the Thermaic Gulf is the the perfect way to unwind after a long day in the library.
Gastronomic capital: Thessaloniki is internationally recognised for its cuisine. As a student, you will find endless options for high-quality, affordable food.
Campus Life
The Aristotle University campus is one of the largest in SE Europe, located right in the centre of the city. On campus, you have access to the Student Club, which serves three meals a day for less than €100 per month, with free meals available for eligible students. You also have access to the University Gym (from €30/year) and the University Library. Every May, Student Week brings concerts, theatre, exhibitions, and sports competitions. The University Flea Market and Christmas Bazaar round out the calendar.
Practical
Housing
Advice
Where to live: Focus on the Centre (from the railway station to the University) and the eastern neighbourhoods (Faliro, Ippokrateio), which offer direct access to campus and the new Metro stations.
Finding your apartment: We recommend starting your search on Spitogatos (spitogatos.gr), Greece’s largest property listing platform, where you can filter by area, budget, and proximity to the University. If you need a flexible short-term option while you are settling and search for a permanent apartment, Airbnb works well as a temporary base for the first few weeks.
Support: Our Student Services team can advise on lease documentation, neighbourhood options, and what to look out for when renting in Thessaloniki.
Getting
Around
City transport: Thessaloniki’s new Metro and the OASTH bus network cover most of the city. Use the Moovit app (Android/iOS) to plan your routes. Student discounts are available on both.
Taxis: The easiest way is to simply wave one down on the street or find one at a taxi stand. Otherwise, apps like FreeNow, Uber, and Karoot let you book a ride in minutes.
Food delivery: Efood, Wolt, and Box bring street food and restaurant meals to your door at any time you feel hungry.
Day Trips and
Excursions
Thessaloniki is an ideal base for exploring northern Greece. KTEL Macedonia intercity buses connect the city to destinations across the region at student-friendly prices. KTEL Chalkidiki takes you to some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean in under two hours.
In summer, Aristotle University operates a student campsite in Kalandra, Chalkidiki, with activities and direct beach access.