Greece continues to attract international investors with its strategic location, dynamic real estate market, and favorable immigration policies. A key driver of this appeal is the Greek Golden Visa program, a government-backed initiative offering residency to non-EU nationals who make qualifying investments in the country, particularly in real estate.
Launched in 2014, the Greek Golden Visa provides a renewable five-year residence permit to third-country investors. Holders of the visa—and their immediate family members—gain the right to live in Greece and travel freely across the Schengen Zone, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking both investment returns and mobility within the EU.
Key Immigration Requirements and Investment Thresholds
To qualify for the program, applicants must legally enter Greece and invest in one of the following categories:
Direct property ownership within Greek territory
Ownership through a company based in Greece or another EU country, wholly owned by the applicant
Long-term lease agreements in tourism-related properties
Acquisition via inheritance or donation of qualifying real estate
Investment minimums vary based on the location and nature of the property:
€800,000 in high-demand areas such as Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, the North Aegean, and islands with populations over 3,100
€400,000 in other regions of Greece
€250,000 for previously commercial buildings converted to residential use or for listed heritage properties undergoing renovation
Each investment must meet legal criteria regarding property size and use and must be a single qualifying asset.
Visa Application and Residency Process
The visa application process follows several key steps:
Entry into Greece can be made with any valid visa or residence permit. An invitation from a Greek attorney can support entry for investment purposes.
Submission of documentation includes notarized purchase agreements, bank evidence of funds, property title deeds, and ownership proof (particularly for corporate acquisitions).
Biometric data collection is required, after which a temporary certificate is issued to permit travel between Greece and the applicant’s country of origin until the final residency card is granted.
Legal Considerations and Restrictions
Golden Visa properties must be free from liens or encumbrances at the time of purchase and throughout the residency term. The use of Greek bank financing is prohibited for qualifying investments. Co-ownership is permitted only between spouses or legal civil partners.
Long-Term Benefits for Global Investors
With streamlined procedures, defined immigration requirements, and flexible visa types tailored to investment size and location, the Greek Golden Visa remains a compelling gateway to both residency and economic opportunity in the EU.
ACMA Legal Services, an Athens-based law firm led by Managing Partners Harris Andrikopoulos and Afroditi Manoussaki, offers expert guidance through every stage of the Golden Visa process. With personalized support and deep knowledge of Greek immigration laws and real estate regulations, the firm has successfully assisted numerous clients in securing residency in Greece.
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