20 Daily Tips for Refugees in Greece: Your Comprehensive Guide to Safe Living
20 Daily Tips in Greece: Your Comprehensive Guide to the Bold Life
‘Mudawanati in Greece’ – Your companion on the path to a stable life.
Dear readers, through the “Mudawanati in Greece” website, we present a comprehensive guide aimed at helping you overcome the daily challenges you may face on your asylum journey. These practical tips are the result of real experiences and field observations, specifically designed to serve as a daily reference to help you build a new life filled with hope and stability.
1. Documentation and Legal Status
is considered Official Documents They serve as your new identity in Greece. These documents include the asylum card, residence permit, and various registration documents. Losing any of these documents could expose you to legal issues and hinder your access to essential services.
The advice:
- Keep photographed copies of all documents on your phone.
- Use a waterproof document holder
- Take photos of the documents and save them in the email.
- Make sure to renew your documents two months before they expire.
2. Registration & Appointments
The asylum system relies on precise appointments. Being late for your appointment could delay your procedures for months. Asylum Service and The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) They are the two main parties you deal with.
Advice:
- Record all appointments in the phone calendar
- Go to the place half an hour before the appointment.
- Bring all the required documents in advance.
- Keep the phone numbers of the officials in charge of your appointments.
3. Learn the Greek language
Mastering the Greek language opens the doors to true integration. Not only for daily communication, but also for understanding the culture and obtaining better job opportunities. Even a basic level makes a significant difference in your interactions.
Advice:
- Start with free apps like Duolingo
- Attend free language classes at community centers
- Train daily with the sellers and neighbors
- Watch Greek channels with subtitles
4. Know your rights and duties
As refugees in Greece, you have specific legal rights, but also duties towards the host community. Knowledge protects you from exploitation and helps you claim your rights.
Advice:
- Get the rights booklet from international organizations
- Consult volunteer lawyers for free
- Join the legal awareness sessions
- Join the legal awareness sessions
5. Healthcare (Healthcare Access)
The healthcare system in Greece consists of government health centers and hospitals. Public Health Services Available to refugees, but there are specific procedures that must be followed.
Advice:
- Register at the nearest health center 'Παραρτήματα Υγείας'
- Keep your vaccination record.
- Inquire about programs Psychological Support
- Learn basic medical phrases in Greek
6. Personal Safety
Personal safety begins with awareness of your surroundings and avoiding dangerous situations. Some areas may be safer than others, especially during late hours.
Advice:
- Avoid traveling alone at night
- Always tell someone about your destination
- Save the emergency numbers: Police 100, Ambulance 166
- Join neighborhood groups for community safety
7. Dealing with the Police
The Greek police 'Αστυνομία' treat everyone according to the law. Correct understanding of how to deal with them prevents misunderstandings and protects you from problems.
Advice:
- Maintain calm and respect
- Submit the documents upon request without hesitation.
- Request a translator if needed
- Do not sign any documents without understanding them.
8. Banking System
Having a bank account makes receiving [payments] easier Money Transfers It protects your money from theft. Most banks offer basic accounts with low fees.
Advice:
- Compare the different bank offers
- Choose the bank that has branches close to you.
- Inquire about online banking services
- Keep the account number in a safe place
9. Budget Management
Managing money well ensures the continuity of living and helps you avoid debt. Greece offers many economical options for those who know how to look for them.
Advice:
- Set a weekly and monthly budget
- Take advantage of the farmers' markets 'Λαϊκή Αγορά'
- Cook at home instead of eating out at restaurants
- Buy in bulk with your neighbors to save money
10. Job Opportunities
The Greek labor market needs workers in specific sectors. Tourism, agriculture, and construction are among the main fields that provide job opportunities.
Advice:
- Join local recruitment groups on Facebook
- Visit the government employment offices
- Learn the skills in demand locally
- Obtain simple professional certificates
11. Education
Education is free and compulsory for children up to the age of 15. Greek schools “Σχολεία” accept refugee children and provide special support programs.
The advice:
- Enroll your children in schools as soon as you settle in.
- Request support lessons from specialized organizations
- Participate in parent meetings
- Encourage your children to participate in school activities.
12. Transportation
The transportation network in Greek cities is advanced and includes buses, trains, and the metro. Understanding the system helps you get around easily and at a low cost.
Advice:
- They bought monthly tickets to save money
- Download local transportation apps
- Learn to read transportation maps
- Always keep your transport cards loaded with credit.
13. Housing & Rent
The lease agreement 'Συμβόλαιο Ενοικιάσεως' is a legal document that protects your rights and the owner's rights. A good understanding of the contract prevents future problems.
Advice:
- Read the contract carefully before signing.
- Take photos of the apartment before moving in
- Get a payment receipt for each month
- Learn about the rental laws in your area
14. Community Communication
A supportive community is a real safety net. Community Events Group activities help in building strong relationships.
The advice:
- Join neighborhood groups on WhatsApp
- Participate in local festivals
- Volunteer in neighborhood cleanup activities
- Invite the neighbors for simple meals
15. Culture & Customs
The Greeks are proud of their cultural heritage. Respecting their customs opens their hearts to you and makes the process of integration smoother.
Advice:
- Learn the basic Greek greeting
- Respect nap times (between 2-5 PM)
- Participate in the national holidays
- Learn the etiquette of the Greek table
16. Food & Shopping
Greek cuisine is healthy and delicious. Shopping at local stores not only saves money but also helps build relationships with the community.
Advice:
- Learn the names of vegetables and fruits in Greek
- Buy from the weekly markets 'Λαϊκή Αγορά'
- Learn how to cook simple Greek dishes
- Take advantage of the weekly supermarket deals
17. Weather and Clothing
The climate of Greece is Mediterranean, hot and dry in summer, mild and rainy in winter. Appropriate clothing for each season is essential for comfort and health.
The advice:
- Make sure to wear cotton clothes in the summer.
- They bought raincoats in the winter.
- Use sunscreen in the summer
- Keep an extra blanket for the winter
18. Communications and Internet
Telecommunication services in Greece are advanced. Choosing the right plan ensures you can stay in touch with family back home and other refugees.
Advice:
- Compare the offers of telecommunications companies
- Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi in the libraries
- Buy a local SIM card upon arrival
- Use free messaging apps
19. Recreational Activities
Entertainment is important for mental health. Greece is rich in public parks "Πάρκα" and free natural areas.
Advice:
- Go for a picnic in the public parks
- Explore the free beaches
- Join the free sports clubs
- Visit the museums on free days
20. Planning for the Future (Future Planning)
Despite the challenges, it is important to set future goals. Daily planning helps in building a better future step by step.
Advice:
- Set small weekly goals
- Celebrate the small achievements
- Look for vocational training opportunities
- Continuously develop your skills
From 'Mudawanati in Greece', we hope this comprehensive guide will be helpful to you on your daily journey. Remember that each new day brings new opportunities. Keep in touch with us through our website for more support and information. Together, we create a better future.
