Greece golden visa

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Starting from September 2024, Greece’s Golden Visa program allows non-EU investors and their families to gain Greek residency through property purchase or other qualifying investments. The updated rules cover new minimum amounts, eligible regions, and legal requirements for real estate or financial products. Successful applicants receive a renewable five-year residence permit and access to travel in the Schengen Area. On this page, you will find clear explanations of Greece’s golden visa options, step-by-step application details, costs, recent updates, and key benefits—helping you understand what is needed to invest, apply, and plan your path toward Greek residency.

Greece

Advantages of the Golden Visa in Greece

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    One of the Lowest Investment Thresholds in Europe

    Greece offers a Golden Visa starting from €250,000 in real estate investment in selected regions, making it one of the most affordable residency-by-investment programs among EU member states — significantly lower than Portugal, Spain, or Malta.

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    Visa-Free Travel Across the Schengen Area

    Greek Golden Visa holders gain the right to travel freely across all 29 Schengen member states without additional visas, providing unmatched mobility for investors, entrepreneurs, and their families.

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    Full Family Inclusion

    The Greek Golden Visa covers the main applicant’s spouse, children under 21, and the parents of both spouses under a single application — with no additional investment required for dependents.

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    No Minimum Stay Requirement

    Unlike many other European residency programs, Greece does not require Golden Visa holders to spend a minimum number of days per year in the country. You can maintain your residency permit without relocating or changing your primary tax residence.

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    Path to Citizenship and EU Passport

    After 7 years of continuous legal residence in Greece, Golden Visa holders become eligible to apply for Greek citizenship — granting access to an EU passport with visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 185 countries worldwide.

Step-by-step application process

  • Step 01

    Visit Greece or Appoint a Local Lawyer

    At least one visit to Greece is required for biometric data submission and bank account opening. Alternatively, you may grant power of attorney to a Greek-licensed lawyer to handle most steps on your behalf.

  • Step 02

    Obtain a Greek Tax Number and Open a Bank Account

    Apply for an AFM (Greek tax identification number) at the local tax office. Open a Greek bank account, both of which are mandatory for completing any property purchase or financial investment.

  • Step 03

    Sign Final Contracts and Transfer Investment Funds

    Complete the purchase by signing the final notarised contract, paying the purchase price, and settling transfer tax (3.09% for real estate). Secure the official property title deed.

  • Step 04

    Collect and Submit Required Documents

    Prepare your full application package including passport copies, proof of investment, health insurance, clean criminal record certificate, and completed application forms.

  • Step 05

    Submit the Golden Visa Application

    Applications are submitted to the relevant Greek immigration authority either in person or through a Greek-licensed lawyer holding power of attorney.

  • Step 06

    Biometrics Appointment

    Attend a biometrics appointment at the local immigration office to provide fingerprints and a photograph. This step is mandatory for all adult applicants and cannot be completed remotely.

  • Step 07

    Processing and Issuance

    The residence permit is typically issued within 3–6 months depending on the region and current application volume. The permit is valid for 5 years and is fully renewable.

Required Documents for the Greece Golden Visa Application

Document Requirement Notes
Application form Yes Official form, must be filled in and signed; submitted via e-Paravolo
Passport copy Yes Certified true copy; validity must extend to cover the full permit period
Proof of investment Yes Notarised sales/purchase contract filed with authorities; confirms investment threshold and type
Proof of payment Yes Bank receipts and notary attestments covering the full investment amount
Health insurance Yes Policy covering Greece (public or private); valid for the entire residence period
Greek tax ID (AFM) Yes Obtained at the local tax office before property purchase; application fee €500 for 5 years via e-Paravolo

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions?

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Can I include my family?

Yes. Your spouse, children under 21 (up to 24 for students), and both sets of parents of the main applicant and spouse.

Do I have to live in Greece?

No, there is no minimum stay requirement for maintaining the residency permit.

Can I work in Greece?

You cannot be employed in Greece under this permit. You may own Greek companies, receive dividends, or operate a business, but local employment in the job market is not allowed.

Can I rent out my property?

Only long-term rentals are allowed. Short-term rentals (Airbnb, tourist lets) are forbidden under the new law for golden visa properties.

Is the real estate investment amount inclusive of taxes?

No. The minimum thresholds (€250,000/€400,000/€800,000) refer to purchase price before tax. Expect additional costs for transfer taxes, legal fees, notary, and annual property taxes.

Is it possible to apply without visiting Greece?

You can instruct a Greek lawyer via power of attorney to handle most steps, but you will need a personal visit for biometrics.

Can I finance my golden visa investment with a loan?

No. The funds must be your own, legally-sourced capital.

Can UK/US citizens apply?

Yes. All non-EU/EEA nationals are eligible, including UK and US citizens.

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