What is a Golden Visa?
The Greece Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program for non-EU citizens. It grants a renewable five-year residence permit to those who invest at least €250,000 in property (or €500,000 in select areas), or €400,000 in approved financial options.
It allows the holder and their family to reside in Greece (optional) and travel freely within the Schengen Zone. It does not allow employment, but you can own or manage a business.
What are the requirements?
-
Investment: Purchase real estate property in Greece, or invest in a Greek company.
-
Proof of funds: Demonstrate the lawful origin of the investment funds.
-
Clean criminal record: Provide a certificate from the country of origin, confirming the absence of a criminal record.
-
Health insurance: Purchase health insurance covering Greece and the entire Schengen Area.
-
Residency: There is no minimum stay requirement to keep your Golden Visa. You only need to maintain your qualifying investment.
-
Renewal: Renew the visa every five years by maintaining the investment and meeting the other requirements
Note: These requirements for a Golden Visa may be subject to change at anytime and additional documentation may be required.
Do you meet these requirements? Then you may have what it takes to apply. Book a consultation today.
What are the benefits?
-
Residency: Grants residency to the investor and family, with the right to live in Greece and travel within the Schengen Area.
-
Travel: Provides visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
-
Security: Offers a safe and stable living environment in the heart of Europe.
-
Investment: Provides an opportunity to invest in the Greek property market and take advantage of the country's growing economy.
-
Education: Access to schools and universities in Greece. Education access in other EU countries depends on local rules.
-
Healthcare: Access to healthcare in Greece, usually through private insurance. Coverage in other EU countries is not guaranteed.
-
Citizenship: The possibility to apply for Greek citizenship after seven years of residency.
Note: The benefits of the Golden Visa program may be subject to change and may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Do these benefits interest you? Book a consultation today.
Book a consultation for a Greek Golden Visa
Fill out this form for a free consultation or call us at 1-833-MY-GREECE
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Greece Golden Visa?
The Greece Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants non-EU citizens a five-year renewable residence permit in exchange for a qualifying real estate investment.
How much do I need to invest to get a Greek Golden Visa?
As of 2024, the minimum investment is €250,000 in most areas of Greece, but in select high-demand zones the threshold is €500,000.
Do I have to live in Greece to keep the Golden Visa?
No, there is no requirement to reside in Greece full-time to maintain your Golden Visa status.
Can my family members also get residency?
Yes, the Golden Visa extends to immediate family members, including your spouse, children under 21, and in some cases, dependent parents.
How long does it take to get the Golden Visa in Greece?
Processing times typically range from 2 to 4 months, depending on the completeness of your documents and investment type.
Does the Golden Visa lead to Greek citizenship?
Yes, after 7 years of legal residence in Greece, Golden Visa holders may apply for Greek citizenship, provided they meet language and integration requirements.
Can I rent out the property I buy for the Golden Visa?
Yes, you are allowed to rent out your investment property and generate income while holding the Golden Visa.
Can I sell the property and keep the Golden Visa?
No, if you sell your property and your total investment falls below the minimum threshold, your Golden Visa will be revoked.
Is the Golden Visa valid for travel in Europe?
Yes, it allows visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone, but it does not grant work rights in other EU countries.
Can I work or start a business in Greece with a Golden Visa?
While you cannot work as an employee in Greece, you are allowed to own a business, manage property, and invest.
Understanding the Greek Golden Visa Laws
Legal Basis
The Greek Golden Visa program was established under Law 4251/2014 and is administered by the Ministry of Migration & Asylum. It provides residency rights to non-EU nationals through real estate investment.
Investment Thresholds
While the base investment starts at €250,000, amendments introduced regional variations. Areas like central Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini now require a minimum of €500,000.
Property Requirements
The investment must be in real estate that is legally cleared, properly documented, and registered under your name or a legal entity solely owned by you.
Renewal Conditions
The five-year residence permit is renewable indefinitely as long as you maintain ownership of the qualifying property and meet all legal obligations.
Government Processing
Applications are submitted to the local Decentralized Administration office. Legal representation is permitted, and biometric data must be submitted in person.
Glossary of Common Terms for the Greece Golden Visa
Residence Permit
A government-issued document that allows non-EU nationals to legally reside in Greece for a specific period.
Schengen Zone
A group of 27 European countries with no border controls between them. The Greece Golden Visa allows travel throughout this region.
Decentralized Administration
The regional government office responsible for processing residency applications and issuing residence permits.
Legal Title Deed
The official document that proves ownership of a property in Greece. It must be properly registered to qualify for the Golden Visa.
Notary Public
A licensed legal official in Greece who oversees property transactions, verifies contracts, and ensures that all procedures follow Greek law.
Beneficiary
A family member, such as a spouse, children, or dependent parents, who is eligible to receive residency under the main applicant’s Golden Visa.
Tax Identification Number (AFM)
A unique number required for any legal or financial activity in Greece, including purchasing property for the Golden Visa.
Renewal Period
The Greece Golden Visa is valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investment is maintained.
Explore Greece Media Products & Services:
-
Luxury Travel Services
-
Golden Visa
-
Greece Framed Photography