Golden Visa Program
Key Benefits & Requirements at a Glance
The Greece Golden Visa Program offers non-European Union investors and their families the opportunity to obtain permanent residency in Greece through qualifying investments. This program not only provides a gateway to the rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty of Greece but also facilitates visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone.
Investment Options and Requirements
To qualify for the Greece Golden Visa, applicants must choose from several investment avenues:
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Real Estate Investment:
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€250,000: Investments in specialized real estate projects aimed at converting commercial properties into residential units or restoring listed buildings, irrespective of their location or size.
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€400,000: Purchase of a single residential property with a minimum size of 120 square meters in less densely populated areas.
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€800,000: Acquisition of properties in prime regions such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and islands with populations exceeding 3,100 residents.
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Alternative Investment Options:
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Time-Sharing or Lease Agreement: A 10-year contract for hotel accommodations or furnished tourist residences, with the investment amount varying based on the region.
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Financial Investments:
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A fixed-term deposit of at least €500,000 in a Greek credit institution.
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Capital contribution of €500,000 or more to a public limited real estate investment company focusing exclusively on Greece.
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Purchase of Greek government bonds worth at least €500,000 with a minimum maturity of three years.
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Acquisition of shares, corporate bonds, or Greek government bonds traded on regulated markets in Greece, with a minimum investment of €800,000.
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Eligibility Criteria
Prospective applicants must meet the following conditions
Applicants should not be citizens of EU or EEA countries.
Must be at least 18 years old.
Applicants and their dependents should have no criminal history.
Possession of valid health insurance covering both the applicant and their family members.
Application Process
The journey to obtaining the Greece Golden Visa involves several key steps:
- Engage Legal Representation: It’s mandatory to appoint a licensed Greek lawyer to guide the application process.
- Select Investment Option: Decide on the preferred investment route and complete the necessary financial commitments.
- Document Preparation: Gather all required documents, including proof of investment, valid passport, medical insurance, and other pertinent records.
- Submit Application: The legal representative will file the application with the relevant Greek authorities.
- Biometric Data Collection: Applicants must provide biometric information as part of the process.
- Receive Residency Permit: Upon approval, the residency permit is issued, typically within 60 days.
Benefits of the Greece Golden Visa
- No Residency Requirement: The program does not mandate a minimum stay in Greece, offering flexibility to investors.
- Family Inclusion: Spouses, children up to 21 years old, and parents of both the investor and spouse can be included under one application.
- Schengen Zone Access: Residency permits allow visa-free travel across all Schengen countries.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After seven years of continuous residency (spending at least 183 days per year in Greece), investors can apply for Greek citizenship, provided they pass language and cultural examinations.
Recent Updates
As of September 2024, the Greek government implemented significant changes to the Golden Visa program
The minimum real estate investment was increased to €800,000 in prime areas like Athens and Thessaloniki. However, on islands with fewer than 3,100 residents, the threshold is reduced to €400,000.
Investors are now required to purchase a single residential property of at least 120 square meters.
Short-term rentals are prohibited for properties acquired under the Golden Visa program. Non-compliance can lead to fines and revocation of residency rights.
Invest in Greece, Live in Europe
The Greece Golden Visa Program continues to be an attractive option for international investors seeking residency in Europe, offering a blend of investment opportunities and lifestyle benefits.
Contact us now for more information on the Golden Visa program in Greece and start your journey towards European residency today!
