Minimum Age
To be eligible for the Golden Visa, applicants must be at least 18 years old.
Greece Golden Visa
Your guide to the Greece Golden Visa: Exploring its options, benefits, and application process.
Greece is one of the most popular countries offering a residency by investment program.
Obtain residency in Greece and travel visa-free throughout the European Union countries.
About Greece Golden Visa
The Greece Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows non-EEA/EU investors to obtain permanent residency in Greece by making qualifying investments through eligible pathways, such as real estate investment. Investors are granted a residence permit that can be renewed every five years, provided they maintain the investment they have made.
Since its launch in 2013, the Greek Golden Visa has emerged as one of the most popular residency-by-investment programs in Europe, attracting investors from all over the world. Over the past years, the program has evolved, incorporating adjustments to its investment criteria, which have contributed significantly to Greece’s broader economic revitalization efforts, reinforcing the country’s position as an appealing destination for those seeking residency and investment opportunities.
Minimum Investment in Real Estate
€250,000
Time to Obtain Residency
6 Months
Minimum Stay Requirement
None
Residence Permit Renewal
Every 5 Years
Your Guide to Greece Golden Visa
Our services are tailored to facilitate your journey toward obtaining the Greek Golden Visa, providing essential support with property purchases and the Greek residency application process.
Our team offers the assistance you need to take the first steps toward residency in Greece.
Who is eligible for the Greece Golden Visa?
In order to apply for the Golden Visa program, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
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Valid Entry Visa
Prospective investors must have or obtain a valid visa for entry into Greece, such as a Schengen Visa or a national D visa.
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Clean Criminal Record
All applicants must be able to provide a clean criminal record from an official police or government authority in their country of residence.
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Health Insurance
Health insurance coverage is a mandatory requirement for applicants and their eligible dependents to apply for the Greek Golden Visa Program.
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Due Diligence
All applicants are subject to due diligence checks to verify the legitimacy of their financial resources and the legal origin of their investment funds.
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Financial Stability
Applicants must demonstrate the financial capability to make the required investment, as this proves their potential to contribute to Greece’s economic development through the program.
Investment Options for Greece Golden Visa
Applicants for the Golden Visa program can select from various investment pathways as long as their investment contributes to the overall growth of the national economy. These options were designed to make the application process amenable to investors from different backgrounds. The pathways include the following:
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Real Estate Investment
Applicants can obtain the Golden Visa by investing at least €250,000 in real estate in most municipalities. Alternatively, in 36 selected municipalities, including provinces in the north and center, the Attica region south of Athens, along with the urban areas of Thessaloniki and the islands of Mykonos and Santorini, the minimum investment requirement is €500,000.
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Lease Agreement with Hospitality Establishment
Applicants can also secure the Golden Visa by signing a lease agreement with a hospitality establishment, such as a hotel, restaurant, or spa. The minimum value for the pathway is €250,000. The lease must be valid for a period of at least 10 years and contribute to the tourism and hospitality sectors.
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Alternative Investment Fund
Prospective investors can also choose to Invest a minimum of €400,000 in an alternative investment fund based in Greece or another EU Member State, focusing on permanent property investments in Greece. This pathway supports diverse investment portfolios and economic development.
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Government Bonds
Applicants can invest in Greece Golden Visa by acquiring Greek government bonds with a minimum value of €400,000 through a credit institution based in Greece. The bonds must have a maturity of at least three years. This option contributes to government funding and national economic stability.
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Capital Contribution
Applicants can also invest a minimum of €400,000 in a company headquartered or established in Greece, other than Holding Companies and Real Estate Investment Companies, through the acquisition of shares in a capital increase or bonds that are issued for trading on regulated markets or multilateral trading facilities in Greece.
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Mutual Fund Investment
Another way to obtain a Golden Visa is by investing at least €400,000 in a mutual fund incorporated in Greece or another country. The fund should focus on corporate bonds, shares, or Greek government bonds. These diversified investments contribute to the growth of the financial sector.
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Corporate Government Bonds
Lastly, applicants can secure the Golden Visa by investing a minimum of €800,000 in corporate government bonds legally tradable on regulated markets in Greece. This substantial investment supports corporate growth and enhances financial market dynamics. Bonds require minimum investor action and can yield high returns on the initial investment.
GREECE Golden Visa by Real Estate Investment
Investors seeking the Greece Golden Visa through real estate have two options: a standard investment of at least €250,000 or an alternative pathway with a minimum investment of €500,000 in selected Greek municipalities
This pathway not only provides residency in Greece but also contributes to the growth of the Greek real estate market.
In the following table are the detailed costs for real estate investment pathway:
Real Estate Investment
Minimum investment in property as a prerequisite for eligibility.
€250,000
Application Fee
A fee required for the main applicant.
€2,000
Application fee for spouse and dependents above 18
A fee required for the spouse and each adult dependent.
€150
Electronic Residence Permit Issuance Fee
A fee required for the main applicant and each dependent included in the application.
€16
Taxes and administrative fees
Fees associated with the property purchase.
Vary depending on the property’s value
The Golden Visa Application Process
Applicants seeking to follow the real estate investment pathway to obtain a Greece Golden Visa will find the process accessible and straightforward. They can take the following steps to ensure a smooth application process:
The Golden Visa Application Process
Applicants seeking to follow the real estate investment pathway to obtain a Greece Golden Visa will find the process accessible and straightforward. They can take the following steps to ensure a smooth application process:
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Initial Consultation and Property Selection
Applicants should begin with a consultation to understand their investment preferences. Our experts will guide applicants in selecting a qualifying property, ensuring it aligns with the Greece Golden Visa requirements and suits their lifestyle and investment goals.
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Complete Property Purchase
Once the required documents are in order, applicants can proceed to finalize the purchase of the chosen property. They must ensure all legal and financial transactions are completed accurately, adhering to Greek real estate laws and regulations.
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Document Preparation
Applicants need to prepare essential paperwork, such as a valid passport, a detailed application form, recent passport-sized photographs, a clean criminal record certificate, health insurance coverage from a Greek provider, and a medical certificate proving good health.
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Application Submission
To submit their application correctly, applicants must compile all required documents, including the proof of property acquisition. They must submit their Golden Visa application to the relevant Greek authorities for review and approval.
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Payment of Fees
Applicants will be asked to fulfill the financial obligations associated with the Golden Visa application, including the application fee, electronic residence permit issuance fee, and processing fee.
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Getting the Greece Residency Permit
Upon approval, the new Greece residency permit holder will receive their Golden Visa, granting them and any eligible family members the right to reside in Greece and become part of a vibrant community.
We guide you through the process
Reach out to us and consult with our advisors, who are ready to help you with any inquiries related to the Greek Golden Visa program.
Requirements for Greece Golden Visa Application
Applying for a Golden Visa program requires meticulous attention to the visa application details. The following section outlines the essential requirements all applicants must meet for a successful and stress-free application process.
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Passport and identification documents
Applicants must submit a valid passport and any additional identification documents requested by the immigration authorities.
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Proof of investment
All applicants must provide documented evidence of their financial investment in the host country. This might include bank statements or investment certificates.
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Biometric data
Applicants must attend a biometric appointment to capture fingerprints, a facial image, or other biometric data specified by the immigration authorities.
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Health insurance
Comprehensive health insurance coverage must be provided. It should meet the official requirements as set forth by the Golden Visa program to ensure access to medical services for the duration of the residency.
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Certified translations
Applicants must include certified translations of all non-official documents, ensuring accurate interpretation and adherence to local language requirements.
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Family documents
If including family members on the same Golden Visa application, applicants should provide marriage certificates, birth certificates, and other relevant documents to establish relationships and eligibility for family-based visas.
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Criminal record certificate
Applicants should provide a clear criminal record certificate from their home country or country of residence to verify their legal standing.
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Additional legal documents
It may be necessary for the applicant to include any necessary legal documents, such as a power of attorney, as required by the immigration regulations and the Golden Visa program.
Every Golden Visa application will be unique, necessitating a careful approach to the application process and requirements. Professional advisory and legal support are invaluable, ensuring compliance and increasing the likelihood of a successful application. We offer comprehensive services to guide applicants through the application process and assist them post-approval.
Processing Time for Greek Golden Visa Applications
The processing time for Greece Golden Visa visa applications will depend on several factors and be influenced at each stage of the process. The complexity of the applicant’s case and the situation in their country of residence or home country can make a difference. Initial document submission and verification can take weeks as officials scrutinize details meticulously. Biometric data processing and health examinations can add several days to the timeline. The complexity of investment verification, legal document assessments, and security checks may extend the processing period. Furthermore, the administrative efficiency and immigration workload can impact the speed at which the Golden Visa application is completed. Applicants should be mindful of these stages and factors, managing expectations and planning accordingly for a seamless application process.
Renewal Process of the Greek Golden Visa
Investors can renew their Golden Visa residency permits and those of their dependent family members. Applicants for renewal must obtain and accurately fill out the application form from the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum, with the details from their passport and official documents. They must include four digital passport-sized photos, a copy of the passport or travel document, and an insurance certificate endorsed by the national insurance agency that covers hospitalization and medical care costs.
Investors must pay a €2000 processing fee via the “e-paravolo” platform and €150 per additional family member (children under 18 exempted). They must submit a valid tax clearance certificate, and biometric data, including fingerprints and digital photographs. Investors should also provide proof of investment maintenance and, if applicable, a current business operation license. Timely renewal is crucial, and failure to do so may result in losing the Golden Visa status and associated privileges.
Legal Framework and Compliance: Ensuring a Smooth Process
Residency permits for the Golden Visa are granted with the approval of the Ministry of Migration and Asylum in accordance with European Union provisions. The legal foundation of the Golden Visa program is Article 16 of Law 4251/2014, modified and supplemented by Article 8 (paragraph 21) of Law 4332/2015, and Article 84 (paragraphs 1 to 6) of Law 4399/2016.
The legal framework of the Golden Visa program is founded on several key principles:
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Eligibility Criteria
The legal framework outlines specific requirements for investors, including minimum property investment amounts and adherence to residency conditions.
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Tax Residency
Obtaining a Golden Visa can impact tax residency status, and investors should navigate Greek tax laws to manage their tax liabilities effectively.
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Investment Verification
Due diligence involves verifying the legality and authenticity of the investment, ensuring compliance with Greek regulations.
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Background Checks
Rigorous checks on applicants’ financial history, criminal records, and adherence to investment requirements contribute to due diligence.
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Application Process
Legal procedures include completing the application accurately, adhering to document requirements, and submitting biometric data. The same goes for the renewal process.
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Certified Translations
Legal documentation, including property deeds, requires certified translations, ensuring accurate understanding and compliance.
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Ongoing Compliance
The legal framework mandates ongoing compliance with residency conditions, ensuring investors fulfill obligations to maintain their Golden Visa status.
Greek Golden Visa Statistics
- The Greek Golden Visa program was initiated in 2013, marking the beginning of its implementation.
- Over the years, the program has experienced a surge in popularity, attracting a substantial number of applicants seeking residency through investment. Between 2018 and 2023, the number of applications rose from 1,969 to 8,351.
- Historical statistics reveal significant investment inflows into Greece, primarily driven by real estate acquisitions, an essential requirement for obtaining the Golden Visa
- The program has witnessed participation from a diverse range of nationalities, from China, Egypt, Lebanon, Turky, Iran, and other countries, reflecting its international appeal and accessibility.
Path to Greek Citizenship: Understanding Naturalization
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Naturalization Process
The naturalization process in Greece entails fulfilling criteria such as a minimum residency period, language proficiency tests, and a comprehensive review of integration into Greek society. The Golden Visa acts as a pathway, allowing investors to transition to full citizenship after maintaining continuous residency for seven years. Initial Golden Visa permits are granted for five years (5 year residence permit Greece), renewable for the same duration, thus leading to Greece permanent residency by investment. Achieving Greece citizenship by investment gives holders all rights and privileges, including EU passport benefits, marking a significant milestone in their journey.
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Differences Between Residency and Citizenship
Residency grants the right to live in Greece, while citizenship signifies deeper integration, offering voting rights and protection against deportation. Holding a Greece Golden Visa, on one hand, allows living and investing but lacks certain obligations of citizenship. It is a flexible option, offering improved business opportunities and a stepping stone towards full citizenship. Greek citizenship, on the other hand, opens doors to EU participation and global travel, providing holders with broader access to international destinations and participation in EU governance.
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Benefits of Acquiring Greek Citizenship
Greek citizenship, which can potentially be a long-term outcome of the Greece Golden Visa program, often referred to informally as Greece citizenship by investment, unlocks privileges like unrestricted EU travel, enhanced legal protections, and generational citizenship transfer. Greek citizens enjoy equal treatment under the law, becoming integral members of the Greek society with associated rights and responsibilities. While officially there is no program named Greece passport by investment, obtaining a Greek passport through the naturalization process that can follow the Golden Visa program grants mobility equivalent to all EU nationals. This facilitates seamless living, working, and studying across EU member states, expanding business opportunities, travel mobility, and active participation in EU politics and social change, making it a valuable asset for investors and their family members.
Our Services
Consultation Services
Receive personalized guidance through our consultation services, where our experts assess your individual situation, explain program intricacies, and tailor advice to optimize your Golden Visa application process.
Relocation Consulting
Streamline your move to Greece with our expert relocation consultation. We offer guidance on housing, schooling, and cultural acclimation to ensure a stress-free transition.
Business Consulting
Explore investment opportunities with our business consulting services. We assist in identifying viable ventures, ensuring compliance with Golden Visa criteria, and maximizing the potential success of your business endeavors in Greece.
Application Assistance
Facilitate a smooth application process with our hands-on assistance. We guide you through document preparation, submission requirements, and accuracy assurance to enhance the likelihood of a successful Golden Visa application.
Post-Arrival Services
Ease into your new life seamlessly with our post-arrival services. Our ongoing support addresses all your further needs, facilitating your smooth integration into the dynamic lifestyle and community of Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
The minimum investment for the program is €250,000 through the real estate pathway. 36 of the municipalities in Greece require a qualifying investment of €500,000, which applicants should be aware of when they apply. Most other pathways require an investment of €400,000.
Yes, the program allows for the inclusion of family members, including spouses, children under 21, and direct first-degree ascendants. They must meet the eligibility requirements and abide by the regulations and compliance of the Golden Visa program and Greek authorities.
Some of the key Greece Golden Visa benefits that holders enjoy include residency rights, unrestricted travel within the Schengen Zone, and the potential for long-term residency or citizenship in Greece. They also gain access to Greece’s healthcare and education systems and a relaxed, welcoming Mediterranean community.
The processing time for Golden Visa applications varies but usually ranges from three to six months. Many factors, such as document preparation, verification, and government processing, can contribute to the overall timeline. Applicants can ensure a seamless application process by working with our expert team.
While there isn’t a language proficiency requirement for the Golden Visa, basic knowledge of Greek can be very beneficial for daily life. Fortunately, it is not a requirement as English is widely spoken in most business and urban areas.
With the Greek Golden Visa, you’re permitted to establish and manage your own business in Greece. However, working for a Greek employer directly isn’t allowed without meeting specific requirements.
We will assist you in every step
Our team offers the assistance you need to take the first steps toward residency in Greece.