Greece Golden Visa Program

The Greece Golden Visa program, a premier initiative encouraging investment in the country, has grown increasingly appealing to non-EU nationals seeking European residency. Significant regulatory updates are set for 2024, which prospective applicants should be aware of. These changes include new financial thresholds for investment and alternative qualification routes, highlighting Greece’s economic strategy and commitment to attracting foreign investors

Investors can secure Greece Golden Visas by purchasing residential or commercial properties worth €250,000 or more. Additionally, options include leasing tourist accommodations or entering into timeshare agreements. Beyond real estate, investors can opt to invest in local companies' capital, purchase securities and government bonds, or open bank deposits, all requiring a minimum investment of €500,000. For those interested in mutual and alternative investment funds, the minimum required investment is €350,000.

Residence permits under the Greece Golden Visa program extend to the investor's family, including their spouse, children under 24, and parents. There is no obligation to pass exams in Greek language or history for residency. Living in Greece is only necessary if the investor intends to apply for citizenship. The Greece Golden Visa program has been available since 2014, offering an attractive pathway for families seeking European residency.

Why Greece Golden Visa?

Benefits

  • Member of the Schengen Area and the EU
  • Ability to bring eligible dependents
    • Spouse or common law partner.
    • Dependent children; and Parents.
  • Right to reside indefinitely in Greece
  • High standard of education and healthcare system, children have access to free education.
  • Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area 90 days out of every 180 days.
  • Right to establish a business
  • Fast processing, typically within 6-9 months
  • No physical residency requirement
  • Can apply for Greek citizenship after 7 years subject to meeting actual residency and language requirements.
  • No wealth tax.
  • Law property tax.
  • The GIRP is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.
  • No language, education or management requirements.

Requirements

  • The applicant must be a Non-EU citizen.
  • The applicant must be over 18 years old & in good health.
  • Must have medical insurance.
  • Make a qualifying real-estate investment which must be held for the entire duration of the residence permit.
    • EURO €250,000 in a 10-year lease agreement for hotel accommodation or furnished tourist residences in tourist accommodation complexes (Article 8 of Law 4000/2001); or
    • EURO €800,000 in a property in the entire Administrative Region of Attica (includes Piraeus and most of the capital region), the Regional Units of Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, islands with a population of over 3,100 inhabitants; or
    • • EURO €400,000 in a property in other areas
  • The investor must buy a single property with a minimum area of 120m2, and can’t offer the property for short-term rentals.