Discover the extraordinary advantages of the Greece Golden Visa Program. Achieve EU residency, access thriving real estate markets, enjoy visa-free travel in the Schengen Area, and reap the rewards of high returns on investment. Benefit from exceptional healthcare, education, and tax advantages. Whether you seek a second residency, investment opportunities, or a blissful retirement, the Greek Golden Visa awaits you with a lifestyle of tranquility, prosperity, and family benefits.

Understanding the Greece Golden Visa Program

The Greece Golden Visa program, introduced in 2013, offers permanent residency permits to non-EU/EEA nationals and their families. Applicants must have a clean criminal history and make an investment in Greece, currently valued at a minimum of €250,000 for real estate. However, starting from 31 July 2023, the minimum investment for qualifying real estate in certain regions will increase to €500,000. Becoming a Greek citizen is only possible through naturalization, requiring seven years of continuous residence, with at least 183 days of physical residency each year and proficiency in the Greek language. The Greece Golden Visa program is advantageous for those seeking Greek citizenship, as it provides permanent residency, allowing applicants to fulfill the residency requirements for naturalization.

Exploring the Benefits of the Greek Golden Visa Program

The Greek Golden Visa program is widely regarded as one of the most competitive and attractive Golden Visa schemes in the European Union. It offers a range of benefits that make it highly appealing for investors and their families. In this article, we will delve into the details of these benefits and explain why the Greek Golden Visa program stands out among its counterparts.

Inclusion of Immediate Family Members

One of the key advantages of the Greek Golden Visa program is the inclusion of immediate family members. The residency extends to the entire family, including children under the age of 21 and parents of both the applicant and their spouse. This means that the entire family can enjoy the perks and opportunities provided by the Greek residency.

Access to Excellent Healthcare

Holders of the Greek Golden Visa are granted access to Greece's highly-rated healthcare system. This system offers free and equitable services, along with outstanding medical insurance coverage spread across both the public and private sectors. Investors and their families can have peace of mind knowing that they can avail themselves of quality healthcare facilities and services in Greece.

Access to an Excellent Education System

Greece boasts a well-respected education system that is accessible to all residents and citizens, including the children of Golden Visa holders. Investing in the Greek Golden Visa program provides families with the opportunity to enroll their children in top-notch educational institutions. This ensures that the younger generation receives a high-quality education, further enhancing their prospects for the future.

Visa-Free Travel in Europe's Schengen Area

As a member state of the European Union and the Schengen Area, Greece allows Golden Visa holders to enjoy visa-free travel throughout the entire Schengen zone. This means that investors and their families can explore and discover numerous European countries without the hassle of obtaining separate visas for each destination. It opens up a world of travel possibilities and facilitates seamless mobility within Europe.

Tax Deductions and Benefits through the Non-Dom Regime

The Greek Golden Visa program offers attractive tax benefits through the non-dom regime for investors. Foreign nationals who transfer their tax residence to Greece can avoid paying taxes on foreign income by paying a lump-sum annual tax. This unique scheme provides a favorable tax environment for investors and encourages them to choose Greece as their tax residence. Additionally, Greece has double taxation agreements with 57 countries worldwide, further optimizing the tax benefits for Golden Visa holders.

High Returns on Investment

Investing in the Greek Golden Visa program not only grants residency but also presents opportunities for high returns on investment. Golden Visa holders can choose to rent out their purchased investment property or hold shares in a Greek registered company, thereby generating rental income or receiving dividends. This allows investors to maintain positive cash flow while retaining ownership of their investments, creating a win-win situation.

Conclusion

The Greek Golden Visa program offers a range of benefits that make it an enticing option for investors and their families. From the inclusion of immediate family members and access to excellent healthcare and education systems to visa-free travel across Europe's Schengen zone, the advantages are numerous. Additionally, the tax deductions and benefits through the non-dom regime and the potential for high returns on investment further contribute to the appeal of the Greek Golden Visa program. With its attractive features and competitive advantages, it is no wonder that Greece has become a preferred destination for individuals seeking to secure a European residency.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Greek Residency through the Golden Visa Program

The Greece Golden Visa Program offers individuals and their families an opportunity to obtain Greek residency by making a substantial investment in the country. Whether you choose to invest in real estate, Greek government bonds, or other capital funds, the process remains the same for all applicants. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of obtaining Greek residency through the Golden Visa Program, providing important details and formatting with headings for easier navigation.

Step 1: Prepare your Golden Visa application

Before you begin the application process, it's essential to gather all the necessary paperwork and make important decisions regarding your investment. Some key considerations include:

• Collecting documents: Gather the required documents, such as your passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), bank statements, proof of income, and proof of health insurance.
• Choosing your investment: Decide whether you want to invest in real estate, Greek government bonds, or other capital funds. If you choose real estate, research and Choose a property that meets the investment requirements.

Step 2: Submit your Golden Visa application

Once you have all your documents and have chosen your investment, it's time to submit your Golden Visa application. Follow these steps:

• Open a bank account in Greece: To proceed with the investment, you'll need to open a bank account in Greece. This account will be used to transfer the required investment sum.
• Obtain a Greek non-resident tax number: You must obtain a Greek non-resident tax number, also known as AFM (Aριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου), which is a unique identification number used for tax purposes in Greece.
• Transfer the investment sum: Transfer the required investment amount to your Greek bank account. Ensure that you comply with the specific investment requirements outlined by the Golden Visa Program.
• Present your application: Submit your completed application, along with the necessary supporting documents, to the Greek government. If desired, you can appoint a lawyer specialized in Golden Visa applications to assist you with this step.

Step 3: Complete the final verification step

Once your application is submitted, you'll need to undergo the final verification step, which involves legal due diligence checks of your real estate property (if applicable) and following the required legal procedures. This step includes:

• Legal due diligence checks: Your chosen real estate property will undergo legal due diligence checks to ensure its compliance with the Golden Visa Program requirements.
• Acquiring the necessary documents: During this step, you will visit Greece using a temporary residence permit, which allows you to acquire the promissory sale and purchase agreement, as well as the public deed to the property.

Step 4: Receive your Greek Golden Visa

After completing the final verification step, you will be ready to receive your Greek Golden Visa. Follow these steps:

• Enter Greece with a temporary residence permit: Use your temporary residence permit to enter Greece. Ensure that you have all the necessary documentation with you, including your passport, temporary residence permit, and any other required documents.
• Submit biometric data: Attend a confirmed appointment with the relevant authorities to submit your biometric data, which may include fingerprints and a photograph.
• Visa issuance: Following the submission of your biometric data, your Greek Golden Visa should be issued within 20 business days. This visa will grant you the right to reside in Greece and enjoy the benefits of Greek residency.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the process of obtaining Greek residency through the Golden Visa Program. Remember to consult with professionals familiar with the program and its requirements to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Investment Options for Qualifying under the Greece Golden Visa Program

The Greece Golden Visa Program offers a pathway to residency and citizenship for foreign investors who meet certain investment criteria. While the traditional route involves a real estate investment valued at a minimum of €250,000, there are alternative investment options available to qualify for the program. These options include investments in government bonds and shares in venture capital funds. This article explores the various investment options in detail, outlining the requirements and conditions associated with each choice.

Real Estate Investment Options

• Purchase a Golden Visa Real Estate Property: Investors can qualify for the Golden Visa by purchasing a real estate property in Greece worth at least €250,000. This investment allows individuals and their families to obtain residence permits and enjoy the benefits of living in Greece. It is important to note that the minimum investment threshold may vary based on the location of the property.
• Ten-Year Lease Agreement: Alternatively, investors can enter into a ten-year lease agreement with a value equivalent to a real estate purchase. This option requires leasing hotel accommodations or furnished tourist residences within program-integrated tourist resorts. By fulfilling this requirement, investors can qualify for the Golden Visa program.

General Investment Options

• Greek Government Bonds: Investing a minimum of €400,000 in Greek government bonds is another qualifying option. By making this investment, individuals can meet the financial criteria to obtain the Golden Visa.
• Securities or Bank Deposit: Investors may choose to make a capital contribution of at least €400,000 in securities or a bank deposit within Greece. This investment option allows applicants to fulfill the investment requirements for the Golden Visa program.
• Venture Capital Fund, Private Equity Fund, or Mutual Fund: Another option is to make a capital contribution of at least €400,000 in bonds or shares of a venture capital fund, private equity fund, or a mutual fund based in Greece. By investing in these funds, individuals can qualify for the Golden Visa.
• Shares, Corporate Bonds, or Greek Treasury Bonds: Investors also have the option to invest €800,000 in shares, corporate bonds, or Greek Treasury bonds listed in trading facilities operating in Greece. This investment satisfies the financial criteria for obtaining the Golden Visa.

Conditions for Property Purchase

When investors choose to purchase a property, there are certain conditions that must be met:

• Sole Ownership of Shares: If the property is purchased through a legal entity, the investor must be the sole and rightful owner of 100 percent of the company's shares.
• Ownership Verification: The investor must be able to prove ownership of the property.

For investors opting for a ten-year lease agreement, the following conditions apply:

• Lease Agreement: The lease agreement must cover a minimum period of ten years.
• Rental Sum: The rental sum should amount to €250,000, which is to be paid in a single payment equivalent to the ten-year leasing of the property.

Program Renewal and Maintenance of Residency

Once the initial investment and residency permit have been obtained, investors must maintain their investment and renew their residence permits for the Golden Visa program every five years. By doing so, they can continue to enjoy the benefits and rights associated with the program.

Changes in Minimum Investment

Please note that as of July 31, 2023, the minimum investment threshold for real estate purchases in specific regions of Greece will increase from €250,000 to €500,000. The affected areas include the northern and central provinces, the South Athens Attica region, and the municipalities of Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini.

It is essential to stay updated with the latest information regarding the Greece Golden Visa Program and consult relevant authorities or legal professionals for the most accurate and current details.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice or an endorsement of any investment option. Always seek professional guidance before making any investment decisions.

Exploring Statistics of the Greece Golden Visa Program

The Golden Visa program in Greece has experienced remarkable growth over the years, attracting investors and their families with its enticing benefits. In 2022 alone, a total of 28,767 Golden Visas were granted, contributing significantly to Greece's economic prosperity. This influx of foreign investment resulted in a staggering income of over €2.6 billion for the country.

The Golden Visa program in Greece has attracted applicants from various nationalities, with notable engagement from the following countries:

• China: Leading the pack with 6,405 applicants.
• Turkey: With 618 applicants, demonstrating a strong interest in the program.
• Russia: Following closely with 596 applicants, indicating a substantial presence.
• Lebanon: With 304 applicants, showing a significant interest in Greece's Golden Visa.
• Egypt: Recording 250 applicants, contributing to the program's diverse participant base.
• Iran: With 194 applicants, showcasing a notable interest in Greece's investment opportunities.
• Iraq: Recording 135 applicants, reflecting growing engagement in the program.
• Ukraine: With 112 applicants, demonstrating a rising interest from this nation.
• USA: With 103 applicants, indicating a growing curiosity among American investors.
• Jordan: With 86 applicants, highlighting an increasing interest in Greece's Golden Visa.

These figures emphasize the program's appeal and effectiveness in attracting investors from around the world, further bolstering Greece's economic growth and development.

Necessary Documents for the Greek Golden Visa Program

To be considered for a permanent residence permit through the Greek Golden Visa program, investors are required to submit several documents. These documents must be certified with an apostille stamp or by the nearest Greek Embassy or consulate and translated into Greek prior to their submission. Certified translations can be obtained from the Translation Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Athens or a member attorney of the Greek Bar Association. The following are the current required documents for the Greece Golden Visa application:

1. Application Form

Two copies of the application form must be completed and submitted. It is important to ensure that all sections of the form are filled out accurately and completely.

2. Passport Pictures

Four recent colored passport pictures are required, following the Schengen Visa photo requirements. These pictures should meet the specified size and quality criteria.

3. Valid Passport or Travel Documents

A certified copy of a valid passport or other travel documents recognized by Greece must be submitted. The passport should have a remaining validity of at least three months beyond the intended period of stay.

4. Schengen Visa (if applicable)

If the applicant or any family members included in the application already hold an active Schengen Visa, a certified proof of this visa must be provided.

5. Greek Health Insurance

Certified evidence of active Greek health insurance is required for all applicants and their family members. This insurance should cover the duration of the intended stay in Greece and provide sufficient coverage for medical expenses.

6. Payment Proof

Applicants must provide certified proof of payment of processing fees and any other relevant government fees associated with the Golden Visa application. The payment receipts or bank statements confirming the payment should be included.

7. Sufficient Funds

Proof of sufficient funds in bank accounts must be provided. This can be in the form of bank statements or any other documentation that demonstrates the availability of funds to support the applicant and their family during their stay in Greece.

8. Notarized Real Estate Purchasing Agreement

A notarized real estate purchasing agreement is required as part of the application. This agreement should outline the details of the property purchase in Greece, which qualifies the applicant for the Golden Visa program.

9. Additional Documents

Applicants may be requested to provide additional documents related to their investments or any affiliated family members included in the application. These documents could include investment contracts, business incorporation certificates, or marriage and birth certificates for family members.

It is important to note that the requirements for the Greek Golden Visa program may change over time, and it is advisable to consult with the official Greek authorities or seek professional advice to ensure compliance with the latest document requirements and regulations.

Fees Associated with the Greece Golden Visa Program

Investing in the Greece Golden Visa Program not only requires a substantial investment sum but also entails additional fees and expenses. It is essential to consider these costs alongside your investment to have a comprehensive understanding of the financial commitment involved. The fees associated with the program include legal fees, translation fees, tax fees, and various administrative costs. Moreover, if you opt for the real estate property investment route, you can expect to incur additional expenses amounting to approximately 11 to 12 percent of the investment property value.

To provide you with a more detailed breakdown of the estimated costs for real estate property investments, here are the key fees to consider:

• Property Transfer Tax: When purchasing real estate in Greece, you will be subject to property transfer tax, which typically amounts to around 3.09 percent of the property's value.
• Notary Public Fees: Notary public fees are an essential part of the property purchase process. These fees generally range from 1 to 1.5 percent of the property value.
• Land Registry Fee: To ensure the legal transfer of property ownership, you will need to pay a land registry fee. This fee usually amounts to approximately 0.6 to 0.8 percent of the property value.
• Payment to the Greek Government: As part of the Greece Golden Visa Program, there are specific payments required to be made to the Greek government. The main investor is expected to pay around €2000, and an additional fee of €150 per family member is applicable.
• Greek Healthcare Insurance: To ensure access to healthcare services in Greece, it is mandatory to have Greek healthcare insurance. The cost of healthcare insurance is approximately €100 for adults, and the fees vary for dependent children based on their age, usually ranging around €80.
• Golden Visa Application Fee: To apply for the Greece Golden Visa, there is an application fee of approximately €300 per person.
• Golden Visa Renewal Fee: When the time comes for renewing your Golden Visa, there is a renewal fee of approximately €500.
• Appointed Lawyer Fees: Engaging the services of a lawyer to guide you through the Golden Visa application process incurs additional fees. The cost of appointed lawyer fees may vary depending on the specific lawyer and the services provided.

It is important to note that the fees mentioned above are estimates and may not represent fixed prices. The actual costs may vary based on factors such as changes in government regulations, market conditions, and individual circumstances. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with legal and financial professionals to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the fees associated with the Greece Golden Visa Program.

Greek Taxes and Deductions for Golden Visa Holders

In December 2019, Greece introduced a non-dom tax regime aimed at attracting foreign nationals to relocate their tax residence to Greece. Under this regime, individuals can exempt their foreign income from taxation by paying a fixed annual tax of €100,000. The non-dom regime extends the tax exemption to relatives of the non-dom resident, provided they pay an additional annual fee of €20,000 per resident. Moreover, Greece has double taxation agreements with 57 countries, allowing many Golden Visa holders to avoid double taxation.

Taxation Benefits for Golden Visa Holders

Double Taxation Agreements

Greece has signed double taxation treaties with numerous countries, including Albania, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Korea, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Morocco, Mexico, Malta, Moldavia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Sweden, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Tunisia, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, and Uzbekistan. These agreements enable Golden Visa holders to avoid double taxation by clarifying the rules on tax residency and providing mechanisms for the elimination of double taxation.

Taxation for Specific Categories

Retirees, Digital Nomads, and Expats

Greece offers various incentivized programs for foreigners living in the country as tax residents. Retirees, digital nomads, and other expats may be eligible for tax exemptions or reduced tax rates, depending on their specific circumstances.

Investors

Investors, including Golden Visa holders, are required to pay a certain percentage of tax on income they receive within Greece. The tax rate is determined based on the type of income and the applicable tax laws.

Tax Obligations for Golden Visa Holders

Income Taxation

Golden Visa holders who establish indefinite residency in Greece become tax residents and are subject to income taxation. This includes taxation on foreign income, such as investments, pensions, and other types of income generated overseas. However, for the first ten years, there is a flat seven percent tax rate on all foreign income brought into Greece. Additionally, foreign investors have the option to choose the non-dom tax status, which allows them to pay a fixed lump-sum tax fee instead of being subject to the standard tax rates on foreign income.

Property Taxation

Property owners in Greece, including Golden Visa holders, are required to pay taxes on their real estate holdings. This includes property tax and rental income tax. The exact amount of tax accrued from property ownership varies based on the value and location of the property.

Gift and Inheritance Taxes

Residents of Greece, including Golden Visa holders, are subject to gift and inheritance taxes based on the kinship of the parties involved. The tax rates are as follows:

• Five to ten percent for spouses, parents, children, and grandchildren.
• Ten to twenty percent for siblings, grandparents, great-grandparents, and great-grandchildren.
• Thirty to forty percent for all other relatives.

Seeking Professional Advice

To ensure compliance with Greek tax laws and to understand the specific tax regulations applicable to Golden Visa holders, it is advisable to seek consultation from an international migration agency or a qualified tax professional. They can provide personalized guidance based on individual circumstances and ensure compliance with Greek taxation requirements.

By understanding the tax benefits, obligations, and potential deductions available, Golden Visa holders can make informed decisions and effectively manage their tax affairs while enjoying the advantages of living and investing in Greece.

Renewing Your Greece Golden Visa

Renewing your Greek residence permit obtained through the Greek Golden Visa program is essential to maintain your permanent residency status. These permits have a validity period of five years and require renewal every five years. However, to successfully renew your Greek residence permit, you must fulfill certain conditions and provide specific documents.

To initiate the renewal process, you will need to submit the following documents:

• Completed application form
• Four recent colored passport photos
• Certified copy of a valid passport or recognized travel documents
• Certified copy of your previous permanent residence permit
• Proof of active Greek health insurance (certified)

It's important to note that additional documents may be requested by the relevant authorities during the renewal process.

In addition to the required documents, you must also meet specific conditions to renew your Greek Golden Visa residence permit. These conditions include:

• Maintaining full ownership of the real estate property that was initially purchased.
• Ensuring that all relevant leases and contracts associated with the property are valid and comply with government requirements.

By meeting these conditions and submitting the necessary documents, you can successfully renew your Greek Golden Visa residence permit, allowing you to continue enjoying the benefits of permanent residency in Greece.

Exploring the Options to Acquire Greek Citizenship

Acquiring Greek citizenship through direct purchase is not possible. However, Greece offers a path to citizenship through naturalization, which requires fulfilling certain requirements. After residing in Greece for a period of seven years, meeting the minimum requirement of spending 183 days in the country per year, being a registered tax resident, passing a Greek citizenship test as well as a proficiency test in the Greek language, and demonstrating a genuine connection to the nation, individuals can become eligible for Greek citizenship. This eligibility allows them to obtain a Greek passport.

FAQ

What is the Golden Visa program in Greece?

The Golden Visa program in Greece is an investment scheme that grants non-EU/EEA citizens legal permanent residence in exchange for making a qualifying investment in the country. This investment typically involves purchasing real estate, shares of a Greek company, or investing in public debt.

What are the advantages of participating in the investment program?

The investment program offers several benefits, including the opportunity to live in Greece indefinitely with a residence permit that can be renewed every five years. Other advantages include:

• Visa-free access to the European Union.
• The ability to relocate your entire family to Greece.
• Ownership of real estate that can be rented out for financial returns.
• Greece has numerous double tax treaties, and Golden Visa holders can potentially acquire non-dom status, allowing them to avoid Greece's progressive tax rates by paying a lump-sum tax annually.

Are there any restrictions on buying real estate in Greece?

Currently, there are no restrictions on purchasing real estate in Greece. Unlike some other Golden Visa programs, foreigners can buy any type of property in any region of Greece. The minimum value for a qualifying real estate investment is currently set at €250,000. However, starting from July 31, 2023, the Greek government will raise the minimum investment amount to €500,000 for real estate investments in specific areas.

How long does it take to obtain a Golden Visa in Greece?

On average, the processing time for a Greece Golden Visa is three to five months. Once your application is approved, it typically takes about 20 business days to receive your residence permit.

Do I need to visit Greece during the application process?

There is no requirement to visit Greece before or during the application process. However, once your visa is approved, you will need to travel to Greece to submit your biometric data.

Which family members can be included in a Golden Visa application?

Third-country nationals applying for a Golden Visa can include their spouse, unmarried dependent children under the age of 21, unmarried dependent children of the spouse under the age of 21, as well as the primary applicant's or spouse's parents and grandparents. Essentially, the program extends to the entire family.

Can I work in Greece with a Golden Visa?

The Greece Golden Visa does not automatically grant work rights. Golden Visa holders must obtain a separate work permit to be eligible for employment in Greece.

Is it possible to obtain Greek citizenship through this program?

Greek citizenship is only obtainable through the naturalization process. This requires maintaining continuous residence in Greece for at least seven years, spending a minimum of 183 days physically present in the country each year. Applicants must also pass a Greek language proficiency test at a fluent level.

The Greece Golden Visa allows individuals to reside in the country for the required duration to become eligible for naturalization.

Are there similar Golden Visa programs in other countries?

Several other countries in Europe offer Golden Visa programs. The Greek program shares similarities with the Portugal Golden Visa, which is a residency by investment scheme that allows foreign investors to obtain residency in Portugal.

To compare the Greece and Portugal Golden Visa programs, you can refer to relevant articles, noting that the Portugal Golden Visa program is currently under revision, and updated legislation is expected to take effect soon.

Can British citizens retire in Greece after Brexit?

Following Brexit, British expatriates now follow non-EU/EEA procedures to apply for Golden Visas. However, British passport holders can stay in Greece for up to three months without a visa. Before their travel permit expires, they must apply for legal residency.

Is it necessary to hire a lawyer to gather all the required documents?

It is advisable to hire a lawyer to ensure that you have all the necessary documents according to Greek immigration laws and the requirements set by the relevant Greek authorities.

Can non-EU investors travel to other EU countries with the Greek residence permit granted to real estate owners?

The permanent residence permit granted to non-EU investors provides visa-free access to the EU Schengen zone, allowing travel to other EU countries.

Can investors purchase commercial properties or a combination of commercial and residential properties or land?

According to Greek law, the stated price on the purchase contract for a qualifying investment must be at least €250,000. The law does not differentiate between commercial and residential properties.

*Note: The minimum investment in real estate will increase from €250,000 to €500,000 starting from July 31, 2023. This increase applies to purchases in northern and central provinces, the South Athens Attica region, and the municipalities of Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini.

Are Americans eligible for the Greek Golden Visa?

Citizens of the United States are among those eligible to apply for the Greek Golden Visa. Many Americans living in Greece have already benefited from this immigration investment scheme.

How can one obtain Greek citizenship through investment?

Greek citizenship cannot be acquired directly through investment. You can only obtain permanent residency in Greece through private or commercial property investment or by making a substantial contribution to the country's economy.

Acquiring Greek citizenship requires maintaining continuous residency in Greece for at least seven years, meeting the requirement of spending 183 days physically present in the country each year, and fulfilling the residency and Greek language proficiency requirements.

What is the minimum investment required to qualify for a Greek Golden Visa?

To qualify for the Greek Golden Visa, you need to make a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate or a minimum investment of €400,000 in government bonds or capital shares.

*Note: Starting from July 31, 2023, the minimum investment threshold for real estate will increase to €500,000. This increase applies to purchases in northern and central provinces, the South Athens Attica region, and the municipalities of Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini.

Is it possible to obtain a mortgage for a property under the Golden Visa program?

You can obtain a mortgage to purchase a property under the Greece immigration investment program as long as the mortgage amount does not cover the required minimum investment. Golden Visa applicants must finance the qualifying investment entirely with funds from overseas.

Are unmarried partners eligible for the Greek Golden Visa?

The Greece Golden Visa program does not extend to unmarried partners or cohabiting couples.

Can real estate property obtained through the Golden Visa program be rented out?

Foreign nationals who have obtained the Greece Golden Visa by purchasing real estate are legally allowed to rent out their property to third parties while maintaining their visa status.