Meta Description
The Greece Golden Visa offers residency with a minimum €250,000 investment, visa-free Schengen travel, and a path to citizenship in 7 years. Learn requirements, investment options, and benefits.
Introduction
The Greek Golden Visa Program, launched in 2014, has quickly become one of Europe’s most popular residence-by-investment schemes. It provides visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone and the right to reside in Greece with minimal physical presence requirements.
The program is particularly attractive for investors seeking affordable entry compared to other EU programs, with a minimum investment of just €250,000—the lowest threshold among Europe’s golden visa options.
Program at a Glance
- Program Type: Golden Visa Program
- Minimum Investment: €250,000
- Visa Validity: Renewable residence permit (5 years per renewal)
- Time to Permanent Residency: 2–4 months (fast-track approval)
- Time to Citizenship: 7 years (requires tax residency + Greek language test)
- Physical Presence Requirement: None (only visits recommended)
- Application Processing Time: 2–4 months
- Visa-Free Travel: ~185 destinations, including all Schengen states
- Contribution Types: Real estate, government bonds, shares, funds, tourism leases
Investment Options
Real Estate Investments
- €800,000 – Property (min. 120m²) in Attica (Athens), Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and larger islands (>3,100 population).
- €400,000 – Property (min. 120m²) in other regions of Greece.
- €250,000 – Converted commercial-to-residential property (any size/location).
- €250,000 – Restoration of heritage-listed buildings (must be completed within 5 years for renewal).
⚠️ Restrictions:
- Properties may not be used for short-term rentals (Airbnb-type).
- Converted properties may not serve as company headquarters.
- Non-compliance results in revocation of residency and a €50,000 fine.
Other Eligible Investments
- €250,000 – 10-year lease agreement with a hotel or tourist establishment.
- €350,000 – Alternative investment fund (AIF) focusing on Greek real estate.
- €500,000 – Greek government bonds (≥3 years maturity).
- €500,000 – Shares or bonds listed on Greek regulated markets.
- €350,000 – Mutual funds investing exclusively in Greek bonds/shares.
- €800,000 – Corporate or government bonds traded in Greece.
Benefits of the Greece Golden Visa
- Fast Approval – PR issued in just 2–4 months.
- Affordable Threshold – €250,000, the lowest among EU golden visas.
- Schengen Mobility – visa-free travel across Europe.
- Family-Friendly – includes spouse, children under 21, and dependent parents.
- Path to Citizenship – eligible after 7 years of residence and tax compliance.
- Dual/Multiple Citizenship Permitted – Greece recognizes multiple nationalities.
- Attractive Lifestyle – warm climate, Mediterranean living, affordable cost of living.
Path to Citizenship
- Residency permit valid for 5 years, renewable with maintained investment.
- To qualify for citizenship, applicants must: Reside in Greece for 7 consecutive years, Maintain tax residency during this period, Pass a Greek language and integration test.
Program Authority
- Administered by: Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum
- Legal Basis: Law 4251/2014 – “Permanent Residency Permit for Investors”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How soon can I get residency?
A: Within 2–4 months after submitting a complete application.
Q2: Does the program require me to live in Greece full-time?
A: No. There is no minimum stay requirement, but citizenship requires actual residence.
Q3: Can I rent out my property?
A: Long-term rentals are allowed, but short-term rentals (Airbnb, etc.) are prohibited.
Q4: Does Greece allow dual citizenship?
A: Yes, Greece permits dual/multiple citizenship.
Q5: When can I apply for citizenship?
A: After 7 years of continuous residence and passing a Greek language exam.
User Comments
Elena – Investor from Russia
Greece offered me the lowest-cost entry to Europe. The process was smooth, though property restrictions are strict.
David – Entrepreneur from UAE
The Schengen access and family inclusion made this program attractive. I chose a €400k property outside Athens.
Maria – Retiree from Brazil
Life in Thessaloniki is affordable and culturally rich. The visa gave me peace of mind.
Alex – Businessman from China
Processing was fast—about 3 months. It’s one of the most efficient EU residency programs.
Editor’s Note
The Greece Golden Visa Program remains Europe’s most accessible and affordable residency-by-investment option, especially compared to Spain or Portugal. Its low entry point and fast processing make it ideal for investors seeking mobility and lifestyle benefits.
However, for those interested in eventual citizenship, the program requires 7 years of real residence and tax compliance, so it’s best for individuals willing to make Greece their primary or secondary home.
Tags
Greece Golden Visa | Residency by Investment | EU Citizenship | Residency Greece | Schengen Visa-Free | Real Estate Investment Greece
