The Golden Visa Greece program is one of the most attractive residency-by-investment schemes in Europe. Launched in 2013, it allows non-EU citizens and their families to obtain a Greek residence permit by investing in the country’s real estate market. With access to the Schengen Area, long-term benefits, and a straightforward process, Greece has become a top choice for global investors.
What Is the Greek Golden Visa?
The Greek Golden Visa is a 5-year renewable residency permit granted to individuals who invest at least €250,000 in real estate. The investment can include residential, commercial, or even tourism properties. In designated high-demand areas like Athens or Thessaloniki, the minimum investment may be set at €500,000, following recent legal updates.
Once granted, the visa allows for:
- Free travel across all 26 Schengen countries
- No requirement to live in Greece
- Family inclusion (spouse, children under 21, and parents of both spouses)
- Permanent residency potential, and in some cases, future eligibility for Greek citizenship
Golden Visa Greece Requirements
To apply for the Greek residency permit by investment, the main requirements include:
- Being a non-EU/EEA citizen
- Being at least 18 years old
- Having no criminal record
- Making a minimum real estate investment of €250,000 (or €500,000 depending on the region)
- Holding full ownership of the property
- Paying taxes and fees associated with the property purchase
The property can be owned by a single person or via a legal entity (as long as the applicant owns 100% of the shares).
Real Estate Investment Options
You can fulfill the investment requirement through:
- Residential properties (apartments, villas, etc.)
- Commercial properties (shops, hotels, offices)
- Tourism properties (Airbnb-ready flats, resorts)
- Leasing contracts (minimum 10-year lease of hotel or tourist accommodation)
Investors often choose areas like Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete, where real estate yields are high, and property value is likely to appreciate.
Application Process for the Greece Golden Visa
Here’s a breakdown of the step-by-step process:
- Choose your property and sign a preliminary contract
- Open a Greek bank account and obtain a tax number (AFM)
- Complete the property purchase
- Gather required documentation
- Submit your application to the relevant Greek immigration authority
- Provide biometric data
- Receive your temporary residence permit, followed by the official Golden Visa
How Long Does It Take?
On average, the whole process can be completed in 2 to 4 months, depending on how quickly the property transaction and paperwork are completed.
Key Benefits of the Greece Golden Visa
- Fast and straightforward process
- No minimum stay requirement
- Access to EU healthcare and education
- Ability to rent out the investment property
- Potential path to Greek citizenship after 7 years (with residency)
Changes to the Golden Visa in 2024–2025
Recent reforms have introduced tiered investment thresholds based on location. As of 2024:
- €250,000 minimum investment applies in most areas of Greece
- €500,000 applies in central Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Thessaloniki
- The investor must retain full ownership for the duration of the permit
Always consult a lawyer or immigration advisor to verify eligibility in your preferred area.
Is the Greek Golden Visa Worth It?
If you are looking for a secure EU residency solution, diversifying your assets, or gaining travel freedom within Europe, the Greek Golden Visa offers strong advantages at one of the lowest entry points in the EU.
Ready to Apply?
For a personalized consultation or assistance with real estate selection, legal paperwork, and the full application process, contact us!