Greece Golden Visa Guide for 2025

One of Europe’s most alluring residence-by-investment programs is the Greece Golden Visa program, which provides non-EU nationals with a route to permanent residency. The program was introduced in 2013 and offers investors who fulfil certain financial requirements a five-year residence visa. This handbook outlines the program’s advantages, prerequisites for eligibility, and available investments.

Greece Golden Visa Advantages

Residency Rights: Investors and their families are not required to reside in Greece for a minimum length of time.

Travel Without a Visa: The Golden Visa Greece permits unlimited travel across the Schengen Area, which includes 26 European nations.

Family Inclusion: The primary applicant and spouse’s parents, spouses, and children under 21 may be included.

Reasonably priced Investment Threshold: It is among Europe’s least expensive residence programs, requiring a minimum real estate investment of €250,000.

No Tax Requirements for Non-Residents: An investor’s worldwide income is not subject to taxation in Greece unless they decide to become a tax resident.

Pathway to Citizenship: Investors can apply for Greek citizenship after living in the country for seven years and meeting the prerequisites.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

Not be citizens of the EU or EEA to be eligible for the Greece Golden Visa.

Be at least eighteen.

Have a clean criminal history.

Make a qualified investment.

Investment Options

Although government bonds, firm shares, and fund investments are other avenues, real estate is the leading investment choice for the Golden Visa.

Real Estate Investment

€250,000 Minimum: Investors can purchase properties that are part of government-approved restoration projects or commercial-to-residential conversions.

€400,000 Minimum: This applies to properties in rural areas or less densely populated cities.

€800,000 Minimum: Required for properties in high-demand areas such as Athens and Thessaloniki.

Alternative Investment Routes

10-Year Lease Agreements: Investors can secure a Golden Visa by signing a long-term lease on hotel accommodations or tourist residences, with a minimum investment of €400,000 or €800,000, depending on location.

Government Bonds: A minimum investment of €500,000 in Greek government bonds with at least a three-year maturity.

Corporate Investments: Investing €800,000 or more in shares, corporate bonds, or publicly traded Greek securities.

Investment Funds: At least €350,000 in a Greek equity, corporate, or government bond fund.

Application Process & Timeline

The Greece Golden Visa application is a straightforward process, and according to Get Golden Visa, the application process generally takes six months from start to finish.

Select Investment: Choose a qualifying property or investment that meets the minimum criteria.

Legal & Financial Preparations: Obtain a Greek tax number, open a bank account, and, if necessary, grant power of attorney to a local representative.

Complete the Investment: Finalize the purchase and register the property.

Submit Application: Provide all necessary documents, including proof of investment and identity verification.

Biometric Data Submission: Travel to Greece to submit biometric information.

Approval & Residence Permit Issuance: Investors receive a five-year renewable residency permit once approved.

Renewal: Every five years, investors must demonstrate that their investment remains valid to renew their residency.

Greek Taxation for Golden Visa Holders

Greece provides several tax incentives for foreign investors and non-residents:

Non-Tax Resident Status: Investors who spend less than 183 days per year in Greece are not subject to Greek taxation.

Double Taxation Agreements: Greece has treaties with multiple countries to prevent double taxation.

Special Tax Programs: Greece offers beneficial tax schemes for retirees, digital nomads, and expatriates.

Acquiring Greek Citizenship

While the Greece Golden Visa program does not directly grant citizenship, it offers a clear route for those willing to reside in the country long-term. Applicants can apply for Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residence, provided they pass a language and cultural knowledge test.

Conclusion

The Greece Golden Visa program remains one of Europe’s most accessible residency-by-investment schemes, offering a combination of affordability, flexibility, and long-term benefits. With no mandatory stay requirement and multiple investment options, it is attractive for global investors looking to secure European residency. The program provides a strategic gateway to Europe, whether for lifestyle benefits, tax optimization, or eventual citizenship.