Greece
Golden Visa Program
Greece, the birthplace of democracy and Western philosophy, boasts ancient landmarks, emerald coastlines, and olive groves. Its Golden Visa Program offers residency through real estate investment, while being an EU member provides access to the 29-country Schengen Zone.
Key Benefits of Greek Residency
- Visa-free travel across 29 European Schengen Area countries.
- No minimum stay required to maintain residency.
- Family inclusion, covering spouse, children, and parents.
- Passive income potential by renting out the property.
- Pathway to Greek citizenship after seven years of residency (subject to language and integration criteria).
- Low investment threshold starting from EUR 250,000.
- Residency within a stable European country, with access to robust infrastructure and a high quality of life.
- Access to EU banking, providing enhanced financial opportunities and stability.
Eligible family members include:
Spouse
Spouse (over 18, with health insurance).
Children
Children under 21 (or up to 24 if financially dependent and studying).
Parents
Parents or in-laws (proof of kinship required).
Investment Requirements
The program grants a renewable five-year residency permit in exchange for one of the following real estate investments:
- Convert or restore commercial, industrial, or listed residential properties.
- Purchase a single property (minimum 120m²) in regions outside high-demand areas (e.g., Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, or islands with populations under 3,100).
- Invest in a single property (minimum 120m²) in high-demand areas (e.g., Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, or islands with populations over 3,100).
- Maintain ownership for at least five years to retain residency rights.
- No mandatory physical stay required to renew the visa.
Additional Fees and Processing Costs
In addition to the investment, applicants are responsible for the following fees:
- Main applicant: ~8% of the property price (includes transfer tax, legal fees, and residency processing).
- Property transfer tax: 3.09% of the purchase price.
- Mandatory for all applicants and dependants.
Application Process
The application process typically takes between six and twelve months and is divided into the following stages:
01
Property Purchase
Secure a qualifying investment and obtain a Greek tax number (AFM).
02
Submit Application
File residency documents with proof of investment, a clean criminal record, and health insurance.
03
Biometric Appointment
Attend an in-person biometric data appointment in Greece.
04
Approval Timeline
The approval process takes approximately 6–12 months, subject to due diligence.
05
Residency Permit
Upon approval, applicants receive a renewable five-year residency permit, provided they maintain property ownership.
Greece operates on a residency-based taxation system, including:
- Rental Income Tax:
15% on income up to EUR 12,000 annually.
33% on income exceeding EUR 12,000. - Non-Tax Residents:
No tax on foreign-sourced income.
