index

───  GREECE  ───

GOLDEN VISA
Discover the pathway to European residency through Greece’s Golden Visa program. By investing in real estate, you can unlock unparalleled opportunities for residency in Greece, a country renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. With the Golden Visa program, investors gain the freedom to explore the Schengen Area while enjoying the benefits of residency in one of Europe’s most desirable destinations. Embrace the allure of the Mediterranean lifestyle and secure your future in Greece today.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

I GREECE RESIDENCY LAW

On April 18, 2013, Greece enacted Law 4146/2013, enabling Non-EU citizens and their families to obtain Residency Permits through investment in Greek real estate. This provision was incorporated into the broader framework of Law 3386/2005, which governs the entry, residence, and integration of third-country nationals in Greece. As outlined in Article 36A of the law, Non-EU nationals who invest in Greek real estate valued at over 250,000 euros are eligible to receive a five-year residency permit. In 2015, additional amendments under Law 4332/2015 (and Law 4251/2014) allowed Non-EU citizens to apply for Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residence, provided they spend at least 180 days per year in Greece.

PROGRAM BENIFIT

VISA-FREE TRAVEL FOR GREECE GOLDEN VISA

The Greek residency permit allows visa-free travel to Europe including 29 countries in the Schengen zone.

33

COUNTRIES

EUROPE
  • Austria
    Belgium
    Bulgaria
    Croatia
    Cyprus
    Czech Republic
    Denmark
    Estonia
    Finland
    France
    Germany
    Greece
    Hungary
    Iceland
    Italy
    Latvia
    Liechtenstein
    Lithuania
    Luxembourg
    Malta
    Monaco
    Netherlands
    Norway
    Poland
    Portugal
    Romania
    San Marino
    Slovakia
    Slovenia
    Spain
    Sweden
    Switzerland
    Vatican City

INVESTMENT TYPE & COST

The government has established particular residential real estate investment criteria that must be met in order to be eligible for Greek residency. To make sure that all required permits are in place and that applicants are eligible for the resident visa, IVS provides an inventory of pre-approved projects. This inventory is updated frequently in response to new opportunities and availability. Prior to submitting their application for residency, investors must buy a property.

APPLICATION PROCESS AND TIMELINE

MONTH 1

PREPARATION AND PLANNING

- Initial Consultation: Contact an I VISA SERVICES for an initial consultation to understand the Greece Golden Visa requirements and process.
- Document Preparation: Gather necessary documents
- Investment Decision: Decide on the investment option – typically real estate purchase in Greece

MONTH 2

Property SELECTION AND DUE DELIGENCE

- Property Search: With the assistance of the I VISA SERVICES, start searching for properties in Greece that meet the investment criteria.
- Legal Due Diligence: Conduct legal due diligence on selected properties to ensure they meet all legal requirements.
- Investment Decision: Finalize the property selection and begin the purchase process.

MONTH 3

APPLICATION SUBMISSION AND FINAL STEPS

- Property Purchase: Complete the purchase of the selected property in Greece.
- Residency Application: Submit the residency application along with all required documents to the Greek authorities.
- Biometrics and Interview: Attend any biometrics appointments or interviews as required by the Greek authorities.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

At I VISA SERVICES, we specialize in providing efficient and seamless support for acquiring Greek Residency. Our dedicated team of experts is committed to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. With our personalized approach and in-depth knowledge of Greek immigration laws, we strive to help you achieve your residency goals swiftly and confidently.

  • Certified copy of valid passport
  • Schengen Visa

  • International health insurance policy that provides full hospitalisation coverage in a Greek public hospital and covers medical care expenses for the entire duration of your stay.
  • Valid Medical Travel Insurance for at least the duration of the Greek Tourist Visa (1 year) and covers medical costs and repatriation in all Schengen countries.

  • To visit Greece, you need a birth certificate with Greek/English translation, legalized by the Greek Consulate. If your father’s name is missing, include a family address book. Flight ticket reservation is optional.
  • Provide proof of accommodation or an invitation letter. Bring three passport-size photos.

Proof of Address:

  • Provide an official Utility Bill showing the residential address. And you must obtain an official English or Greek translation and legalise it with the Greek Consulate of Residence.

Proof of Work and Income:

  • Proof of work or evidence of personal company and income is required.
  • The official document should also prove the applicant’s work address, type of work, and annual income. And you must obtain an official English or Greek translation and legalise it with the Greek Consulate of Residence.

Bank Statements:

  • Bank Statements for the last six months are required.

  • For marriage, provide marriage record or certified certificate with Greek/English translation, and consulate legalization.
  • For divorce, provide a certified divorce document, also legalized by the consulate if divorced.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The qualifying investment to obtain Golden Visa from Greece starts from EUR 250,000 in real estate. For properties located in the regions of Attica, which includes Athens and Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, Mykonos, and Thira in the South Aegean Region including Santorini, as well as islands with a population exceeding 3,100, the minimum investment required is EUR 800,000. For properties in all other regions of Greece, the minimum investment is EUR 400,000. EUR 250,000 applies to industrial buildings or parts thereof which is not operating for at least five years and the property is converted into residential use OR listed buildings or parts of listed buildings that are to be restored or reconstructed. The residence permit is valid for five years from initial issue and remains perpetually renewable, subject to maintaining the investment.

Aside from the investment, you must meet the eligibility requirements of the Golden Visa in Greece. These criteria include being over the age of 18, not having a criminal record, and having the financial resources to invest. You must also be a non-EU/EEA country citizen, have medical insurance for yourself and your family, and provide the necessary documentation for Greece Residency by Investment.

The Golden Visa for Greece is valid for five years and can be renewed forever as long as the investment is maintained. The Golden Visa residence visa can be renewed every five years if the Greek real estate investment is maintained. Unlike most other countries that offer Golden Visas, you do not need to live in Greece to renew your residence visa. Because the Golden Visa has no expiration date, it is also known as a residence permit. You can apply for Greek citizenship if you decide to stay in Greece after seven years of continuous residency.

You do not need to speak Greek to qualify for a Golden Visa in Greece. If you intend to apply for Greek citizenship after seven years in Greece, you must complete Greek language and civic tests.

Obtaining a Golden Visa in Greece or any other EU country does not provide the right to work or take up employment. Unfortunately, the Greek investor visa does not entitle the holder to seek employment in Greece. Nevertheless, there are alternative means to make revenues, such as renting the property purchased or earning interest on the investment made.

Like all investment programs, the Golden Visa program in Greece carries certain risks. Among these risks are the potential changes in the investment requirements, such as the increase in minimum investment from €250,000 to €500,000, which took effect on August 1st, 2023. Additionally, investors should also consider the possibility of facing difficulties with Greek banks.