Residency by Investment in Greece
Greek Golden Visa
The Greek Golden Visa program allows non-EU nationals to obtain a Greek residence permit through qualifying real estate investment. It is one of the most competitive residency-by-investment options in Europe, combining access to the Schengen Area with flexibility and long-term security for you and your family.
I guide you through the entire process — from selecting an eligible property to securing your residence permit — with legal clarity and strategic planning.
Table of Contents
What is the Greek Golden Visa?
The Greek Golden Visa is a residence permit for non-EU/EEA nationals who make a qualifying real estate investment in Greece. It allows you and eligible family members to reside in Greece and travel within the Schengen Area under Schengen rules. The permit is issued for five years and can be renewed as long as the investment is maintained, with no requirement to live in Greece to keep it.
Eligible investments may include:
- Residential & Commercial properties
- Tourist accommodations
- Off-plan or newly constructed developments
In addition to the investment, applicants must:
- Be over 18 years old
- Have a clean criminal record
- Obtain valid health insurance in Greece
Benefits of the Greek Golden Visa
The Greek Golden Visa offers a range of significant advantages for investors and their families.
- Residency for the entire family: The main applicant can include their spouse, children under 21, and dependent parents of both spouses.
- Access to the Schengen Area: Visa-free travel across 27 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- No minimum stay requirement: You are not required to live in Greece to maintain your residence permit.
- Attractive real estate market: Greece continues to offer competitive property prices with strong potential for capital appreciation and rental returns.
- Pathway to long-term residence and citizenship: After meeting specific residency and legal requirements, applicants may qualify for permanent residence or Greek citizenship.
Application Procedure
A successful Golden Visa application depends on two critical elements: a legally compliant investment and a properly structured application file.
- Selecting and securing a qualifying property
- Obtaining a Greek tax number (AFM)
- Opening a Greek bank account
- Completing the property purchase
- Submitting biometric data and residence permit application
Contact me for expert legal guidance
Contact me for legal guidance on property and real estate matters in Crete.
Expert in Real Estate and Business law
With 25 years of experience practicing as a lawyer in Crete Greece, I understand the legal, financial, and practical challenges that property transactions present—especially for international clients.
Registered member of Chania Crete Bar Association (No 328)