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Golden Visa

Greek Golden Visa Program (2024) – Information for Investors


The Greek Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program launched in 2013 that allows non-EU citizens and their families to obtain a 5-year renewable residence permit in Greece by investing in real estate or other qualifying assets.


✅ Key Benefits

  • Residence in Greece: Right to live in Greece (no obligation to stay permanently).

  • Schengen Zone access: Visa-free travel across the 27 Schengen countries.

  • Family eligibility: Spouse, children under 21 (can be extended up to 24 if studying), and dependent parents of both spouses.

  • Renewable every 5 years, as long as the investment is maintained.

  • Path to citizenship: After 7 years of residence (with physical presence), eligible for naturalization.


💰 Investment Options (Updated 2024)

1. Real Estate Investment

As of August 1, 2023, the thresholds are based on location:


As of August 1, 2023, the thresholds are based on location:

Region

Minimum Investment

Central Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Thessaloniki, Southern Athens Riviera

€500,000

All other regions in Greece

€250,000

  • Must be one single property for €500,000 regions.

  • In €250,000 regions, multiple properties are allowed (total must meet the threshold).


2. Alternative Investment Options

  • 10-year lease of hotel or tourist accommodation: Minimum value €250,000.

  • Shares or bonds: Investment in Greek government bonds, real estate investment companies (REICs), or Greek companies – generally starts from €400,000.(Less common than real estate route.)


📋 Application Process

  1. Choose investment and sign preliminary agreement (reservation/PoA optional).

  2. Open a Greek bank account (possible remotely via PoA).

  3. Complete the property purchase.

  4. Submit application (either in person or via legal representative).

  5. Receive a temporary residence permit (valid for 12 months until the permanent card is issued).

  6. Receive Golden Visa residence card (within ~2–6 months).


🧾 Required Documents

  • Valid passport

  • Health insurance in Greece

  • Proof of property ownership (notarized deed + tax clearance)

  • Certificate from the land registry

  • Proof of investment funds (bank transfers)

  • Criminal background check (from country of origin)

  • Marriage/birth certificates (for family members, translated and apostilled)


🕒 Timelines

  • Property purchase: ~1–2 months

  • Visa processing: ~2–6 months


💡 Additional Notes

  • No minimum stay required in Greece to retain the visa.

  • Can rent out the property for income.

  • You are not taxed on worldwide income unless you become a tax resident.

  • You can switch to tax residency and benefit from certain tax incentives for foreigners.


🏛️ Citizenship Eligibility

To qualify for Greek citizenship after 7 years:

  • Physical presence required (actual residence).

  • Must learn basic Greek language and pass a civic integration test.



Please cross-check the information also on the official website of the Greek government>> https://migration.gov.gr/en/golden-visa/






 
 
 

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