Finding Your Feet as an Expat: Raising an Autistic Child in Greece and Beyond

As nomads, travelers, or global souls who feel at home wherever life takes us, we’re used to chasing the horizon. From country to country, across countless miles at sea, the “next destination” is always on our minds. But what happens when it’s time to pause, plant roots, and call somewhere home, especially when you’re raising a child with autism? 

For my family, that somewhere became Greece, a land of sun-soaked shores and vibrant culture. Here’s our story of finding our footing as expats, the challenges and joys of raising an autistic child in Greece, and a glimpse at another destination for globetrotting families seeking support.

A New Chapter in Greece

Two years ago, we faced the daunting question: Where do we settle? The world was full of possibilities, but practicality had to guide us. Greece, with its Mediterranean charm, rich history, and promise of a slower-paced life, called to us. We took the leap, hoping to build a stable base for our family, including our autistic child. What we’ve discovered is a journey of highs and lows. Beautiful, complex, and deeply rewarding.

The Challenges: Navigating Support Systems

Raising a child with autism in a foreign country comes with unique hurdles, and Greece is no exception. One of the biggest challenges is finding reliable, specialized support. Unlike some countries with centralized autism resources, Greece’s system can feel like a patchwork quilt. Parents often become detectives, piecing together therapists, schools, and programs through word-of-mouth, local NGOs, or expat networks. The language barrier adds another layer of complexity, making it harder to navigate bureaucracy or communicate with professionals.

Financially, it’s a heavy lift, especially without an AMKA (Greece’s social security number). Without this, families pay out-of-pocket for everything—evaluations, therapies, specialists, and even basic aids. Costs pile up quickly, forcing us to budget creatively and sometimes sacrifice other essentials to prioritize our child’s needs. It’s a reality that tests resilience, but it’s one many expat families will recognize.

The Silver Lining: Greece’s Unique Strengths

Despite the challenges, Greece offers something special for families like ours. Once you tap into the right networks, you’ll find a surprising variety of therapies and activities tailored for children with special needs. From sensory integration and occupational therapy to equine-assisted programs and adaptive sports, there’s a wealth of options if you know where to look. Local NGOs and expat communities have been our lifeline, sharing resources and recommendations that make all the difference.

Then there’s Greece’s natural environment—a true game-changer. Weekends spent by the sea, where the rhythmic waves provide calming sensory input, or hiking in the mountains for grounding outdoor therapy, have become our family’s sanctuary. Nature here isn’t just beautiful; it’s a free, accessible form of “treatment” that helps regulate moods, build skills, and foster connection in ways no clinic can match. The Mediterranean lifestyle, with its emphasis on community, fresh food, and open-air living, adds a layer of magic to our daily life.

Tips for Expat Parents in Greece

If you’re an expat parent raising a child with autism in Greece, here are a few tips we’ve learned along the way:

•  Connect with local and expat communities: Groups on platforms like X, Facebook or local NGOs can point you to trusted therapists, schools, and programs.

•  Leverage nature: Use Greece’s beaches, forests, and mountains as free sensory and therapeutic tools for your child.

•  Learn basic Greek: Even a few key phrases can ease communication with professionals and locals.

•  Budget wisely: Without an AMKA, prioritize therapies with the most impact and explore nonprofit support options to offset costs.

Greece has heart, and with persistence, you’ll find your footing. If you’re navigating a similar path, let’s connect—sharing tips and resources makes the journey lighter. Drop a comment below or reach out on Facebook to swap stories! 🇬🇷💙

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Another Destination for Globetrotting Families: Portugal

For families considering other destinations that support autistic children while embracing a nomadic lifestyle, Portugal stands out as a strong contender. Known for its welcoming expat community, affordable cost of living, and mild climate, Portugal offers a supportive environment for special needs families.

Why Portugal?

•  Robust Support Systems: Portugal has made strides in autism support, with organizations like the ASSOCIAÇÃO PORTUGUESA PARA AS PERTURBAÇÕES DO DESENVOLVIMENTO E AUTISMO LISBOA | APPDA Lisboa providing resources, advocacy, and access to therapies. Cities like Lisbon and Porto have specialized schools and clinics offering speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral interventions.

•  Affordable Healthcare: Portugal’s public healthcare system ( Find the best expat health cover for Portugal | Best Expats Cover ) is accessible to residents, including expats with residency status, and covers many services for children with autism. Private healthcare is also more affordable than in many Western countries, making it easier to access specialists.

•  Inclusive Communities: Portugal’s culture is warm and family-oriented, with growing awareness of neurodiversity. Expat networks, particularly in the Algarve and Lisbon, are active and supportive, offering playgroups, workshops, and resources for special needs families.

•  Natural Beauty: Like Greece, Portugal’s coastline, forests, and mild weather provide endless opportunities for outdoor activities that double as sensory therapy. Think beach days in the Algarve or nature walks in Sintra.

•  Expat-Friendly Policies: Portugal’s D7 visa (for passive income) and Golden Visa programs make it accessible for globetrotting families to settle long-term. The cost of living is lower than in many European countries, easing financial pressures.

Challenges to Consider

While Portugal is promising, it’s not without challenges. Rural areas may have fewer resources than urban centers, and the language barrier (Portuguese) can be tricky at first. However, English is widely spoken in expat hubs, and the country’s integration of autism services into its healthcare and education systems makes it a strong option for families seeking stability and support.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Journey

Whether you choose Greece, Portugal, or another corner of the world, finding your feet as an expat family with an autistic child is about balance—embracing the beauty of a new culture while navigating its challenges. Greece has taught us resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of community. Portugal, with its growing support systems and expat-friendly vibe, could be the next chapter for families like ours.

Wherever you are on your nomadic journey, I’d love to hear your story. 

Have you found a destination that feels like home for your family? 

Share your experiences or ask for tips in the comments below or connect with me on Facebook.

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Let’s build a community of globetrotters supporting each other, one step at a time. 🌍💙