Golden Visa Greece: Your 2025 Guide To Residency By Investment

Greece continues to attract global investors, retirees, and families through one of the most accessible Golden Visa programs in Europe. Known for its beauty, lifestyle, and strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean, Greece offers a residency-by-investment opportunity that combines flexibility, affordability, and long-term benefits. Here's what to know in 2025.

 

The Greek Golden Visa grants non-EU citizens and their families the right to reside in Greece through a qualifying investment, most commonly in real estate. In return, applicants receive a five-year renewable residency permit with minimal physical presence requirements. Better yet, visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Zone, making Greece a strategic gateway to Europe.

Greece’s program is considered one of the most cost-effective in Europe, and its perks extend well beyond affordability. These are a few reasons why it remains a top pick:

• Low Entry Point: Starting at just €250,000, Greece offers one of the lowest investment threshold among Golden Visa programs in the EU.
• Visa-Free Schengen Travel: Holders can enjoy unrestricted travel throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, without needing additional visas.
• Renewal and Validity: The Golden Visa is initially valid for five years and can be renewed every five years, provided the investment is maintained. There’s no requirement to reside in Greece to renew the visa, which is unique compared to other residency programs.
• Family-Friendly: The Greek Golden Visa extends to the investor’s immediate family, including: 
  - Spouse or partner (if civil partnerships are recognized in the applicant's country of origin)
  - Children under 21 (extendable under specific conditions)
  - Parents of both the applicant and their spouse
  - This family inclusion makes it an attractive option for those seeking residency for their entire household.
• No Residency Requirement: You can maintain your visa without living in Greece, a unique feature not offered by all EU programs. 
• Pathway to Citizenship: While the Golden Visa provides a route to Greek residency, obtaining Greek citizenship is a separate process. To apply for citizenship, you typically need to live in Greece for 7 years continuously and meet other criteria such as language proficiency, demonstrating ties to Greece, and passing a citizenship test. Learn more about the Greek citizenship process!

While real estate remains the most common route, Greece now offers multiple pathways to residency through investment. Updated criteria provide flexibility based on the type and location of the investment:

• Real Estate Purchase: The updated Greek Golden Visa rules introduce tiered investment thresholds for real estate. In sought-after locations, the minimum property investment has risen to €800,000. For other areas, the threshold is €400,000, while the €250,000 minimum still applies to heritage restorations or conversions of commercial properties into residential homes. These changes aim to balance market demand with preservation and development opportunities. This is the most popular route for Golden Visa applicants due to Greece’s attractive property market and affordable prices.
• Long-Term Leases: A five-year lease in a tourist accommodation (furnished residence or hotel) qualifies.
• Startup & Business Investments: Invest in an innovative Greek startup or registered enterprise to gain eligibility.
• Capital-Based Investments: Includes Greek government bonds, mutual funds, or fixed capital contributions, typically requiring a minimum of €500,000.

The Application Process: Step by Step 

1. Choose Your Investment
   Select the most suitable option based on your goals—real estate, financial products, or a business venture.
2. Prepare Documentation
   You’ll need valid identification, proof of funds, background checks, and health insurance.
3. Complete the Investment
   Finalize the purchase or agreement and gather supporting legal documents.
4. Submit Your Application
   You can apply in person or via legal representation through Greek immigration authorities.
5. Receive Residency Permit
   If approved, your five-year Golden Visa will be issued, with eligibility for renewal as long as the investment is maintained.

Beyond the bureaucratic benefits, the Greek Golden Visa opens the door to a high-quality lifestyle. With year-round sunshine, a rich cultural heritage, excellent healthcare, and a relaxed pace of life, Greece is a lifestyle upgrade. Families also benefit from access to the public education system and affordable private international schools.

With decades of experience in immigration and real estate law, our trusted partners at Expat Law have helped many investors secure their Greek Golden Visas efficiently and painlessly.

For tailored advice from a legal expert who knows this process inside and out, contact Kyveli Zahou directly at kyveli@expatlaw.gr.

Have a question or need help getting started? Feel free to reach out to us! We’re here to connect you with the right resources and make your path to Greek residency as smooth and stress-free as possible.