In a decision published in the Government Gazette on September 21, 2023, under number 423840/15.09.2023, the Minister of Migration and Asylum announced modifications to the provisions regarding the Certificate of Submission of Article 8, paragraph 5 of Law 4251/2014 (Migration Code).
According to this decision, which came into effect on September 25, 2023, upon the successful submission of an application, the applicant receives a proof of submission via their provided email address. This document contains all the details and documents attached for the granting of the initial residence permit application. Within forty (40) days from the submission of the application, the relevant department of the Ministry of Migration and Asylum or the competent Decentralized Administration of Greece, reviews the application and forwards to the applicant a document constituting the Certificate of Submission as stated in Article 8, paragraph 5 of Law 4251/2014 (commonly known as the “Blue Certificate”). This document is uniquely serial numbered and provides precise information, allowing real-time (on-line) verification of its authenticity and accuracy.
In fact, if it is proven that the applicant has submitted false or misleading information or falsified documents or that fraud has been committed in any way or that other illegal means have been used, the applicant is not entitled to reapply for the granting or renewal of a residence permit before the expiry of five (5) years from the date of submission of his/her previous application. The above sanction applies not only to applications submitted after the entry into force of the decision of the Ministry of Migration, but also to those submitted after 1 April 2023, when the new Migration Code with the relevant provision was published (a. 20 par. 4 of Law 5038/2023).
Now, as regards the issue of deficiencies in relation to the supporting documents submitted, continues to be examined in accordance with the standard administrative procedure, i. e. request for additional supporting documents, issue of a certificate if the application is completed, etc.
In conclusion, the procedure, which is already being followed as of 25 September 2023 and applies only to cases of initial issuance of a residence permit and not those of renewal, includes three (3) steps:
(a) the submission of an application for an initial and immediate receipt of a proof of submission, which does not confer on the applicant the rights deriving from the residence permit applied for;
(b) Examination of the application as to its formal requirements within a forty (40) day period; and
(c) if the application of the third-country national fulfils the conditions set by law, the competent department shall send to the applicant’s e-mail address a message, which will lead him/her to the retrieval of the Certificate of Submission.
Otherwise, the application will be rejected, subject to the submission of false documents, in which case the “sanction” is a ban on submitting a new application for a residence permit for a period of five years.
In light of the evolving landscape of residence permit applications in Greece, it becomes increasingly vital for applicants to adhere to the stringent legal requirements and procedural nuances. The government’s response to instances of fraudulent practices underscores the significance of compliance and integrity in the application process. Golden Visa Consultancy and his legal partners understand the complexities of the legal framework surrounding residence permits and immigration in Greece. We take pride in our extensive experience and a team of well-informed, updated lawyers who are committed to guiding our clients through these intricate procedures. Trust us for your residence permit needs, knowing that our legal expertise and dedication will navigate you successfully through this challenging terrain. Your trust in our services is not only valued but also reaffirmed by our unwavering commitment to your interests and the pursuit of a legal, trouble-free residence permit application process.