The Golden Visa is about Residency by Investment (RBI). According to the Immigration and Social Integration Code (article 4251/14) and the Greek Law 4146/2013, the citizens of countries outside the European Union, who already possess or are willing to buy real estate property worth of 250,000 € or more, are given the opportunity to obtain a legal residence permit.   

In 2024, the minimum threshold has increased to 500,000 € for properties in certain popular areas of Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as in Mykonos and Santorini. The program offers the maximum flexibility in terms of minimum stays, as it has the lowest minimum stay requirement – 0 days per year, along with Italy. The Greece Golden Visa program is valid for a period of five years from the date of issuance.

The investment can include more than one properties, for housing or commercial use.  For example, you could spend 150,000€ on a residential apartment in Crete, and then spend and additional 100,000€ on a commercial property (also in Crete), for a total of 250,000€. The above amounts do not include any fees, stamp duties, taxes or service provider fees. The minimum purchase price of the property (or properties) has to be 250,000€ or more.

♦ Who is entitled to a Golden Visa

The program is intended for third country citizens:
• That own real estate property in Greece, either privately or as shareholders of a company, as long as the real estate property is worth of 250,000€.
• That own real estate property in Greece, which is worth of at least 250,000€ and was acquired as a gift or parental provision. 
• That either live permanently in Greece and have a visa or want to come and settle permanently in the country and have full freehold ownership of real property in Greece, which they had purchased before the law enforcement, on condition that they acquired it for at least 250,000€ or that the present fair market value is at least 250,000€.
• That have purchased a plot of land or land parcel and have proceeded to construct a building, given that the total value of sale and purchase and agreement with the construction company is at least 250,000€.
And all of their family members.

♦ What benefits can you enjoy with your Golden Visa?

In European countries, the benefits offered to investors are visa-free travel to Schengen countries, over 27 countries. 

Applicants can enjoy access to the public healthcare system and are eligible to live, work and study. 

Citizenship is applicable after 5 to 10 years of residency in a European country of investment.