Greek Golden Visa Program – Residency by Investment in Greece
The Greek Golden Visa Program is one of the most attractive residency-by-investment schemes in Europe. Introduced in 2013 by Greece, the program allows non-EU nationals to obtain a renewable residence permit through qualifying investments, most commonly in real estate.
The Greek Golden Visa grants investors and their families the right to live in Greece and travel freely across the Schengen Area. With no minimum stay requirement and competitive investment thresholds, the program has become a popular option for international investors seeking European residency, mobility, and long-term security.
The residence permit is valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely, as long as the qualifying investment is maintained.
Benefits of the Greek Golden Visa
The Greek Golden Visa offers several advantages for investors and their families:
- Residency in Greece through investment
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area
- Inclusion of family members in the same application
- No minimum stay requirement to maintain residency
- Opportunity to invest in the growing Greek real estate market
- Potential pathway toward long-term residency or citizenship (subject to residency requirements)
These benefits make Greece one of the most competitive destinations for investors seeking residency in Europe.
Greek Golden Visa Investment Options
Investors can qualify for the Greek Golden Visa through several investment routes.
Real Estate Investment
The most popular option is investing in Greek property. The minimum investment depends on the location:
- €800,000 minimum investment in high-demand areas such as Athens city center, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini
- €400,000 minimum investment in other regions of Greece for a single property meeting specific criteria
- €250,000 minimum investment in certain cases, such as converting commercial property into residential use or restoring listed historic buildings
Real estate investments remain attractive due to the strong demand for property and the potential for rental income.
Alternative Investment Options
Applicants may also qualify through other investment routes, including:
- Investment in Greek companies
- Investment in Greek government bonds
- Investment funds operating in Greece
- Investment in innovative start-ups registered in Greece
These options provide additional flexibility for investors seeking different types of assets.
Requirements for the Greek Golden Visa
To apply for the Greek Golden Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a non-EU / non-EEA citizen
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a valid passport
- Have no criminal record
- Obtain health insurance valid in Greece
- Complete a qualifying investment
The program also allows family reunification. Eligible family members may include:
- Spouse
- Children under 21 years old
- Parents of the main applicant and spouse (in certain cases)
Family members receive residence permits with the same validity as the main investor.
Greek Golden Visa Application Process
The Greek Golden Visa application process is straightforward and typically involves the following steps:
- Select Investment
Choose a qualifying investment, most commonly purchasing real estate in Greece.
- Complete the Investment
Finalize the property purchase or other investment and obtain the required documentation.
- Submit the Application
Submit the residence permit application along with supporting documents, including proof of investment, passport copies, health insurance, and criminal record certificate.
- Biometric Data Collection
Applicants provide biometric information and receive a temporary residence permit while the application is processed.
- Residence Permit Issuance
Once approved, the investor and eligible family members receive their Greek Golden Visa residence permits, typically within several months.
Why Invest in Greece?
Greece has become one of the most attractive destinations for property investment and residency in Europe. Investors benefit from the country’s strategic location, Mediterranean lifestyle, growing tourism sector, and strong demand for real estate.
The Greek Golden Visa combines lifestyle advantages with investment opportunities, making it a preferred option for individuals seeking European residency through investment.