If you’re exploring residency by investment programs in Europe, the Greek Golden Visa 2025 remains one of the most attractive options. Since its launch in 2013, it has become a top choice for investors seeking EU residency, visa-free travel in the Schengen Zone, and a possible path to Greek citizenship by investment.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the Greece Golden Visa—from requirements and investment options to benefits, drawbacks, and the application process.
Why Choose the Greek Golden Visa?
- No minimum stay requirement – you don’t need to live in Greece to keep your residency.
- Flexible investment routes – including real estate, funds, or long-term leases.
- Schengen Zone access – travel freely in Europe for up to 90 days in any 180.
- Pathway to citizenship – become eligible for Greek citizenship after 7 years of tax residency.
- Family-friendly program – includes spouse, children under 21, parents, and even grandparents.
- Affordable lifestyle – Greece offers relatively low living costs, attractive property prices, and high quality of life.
- Safe EU country – modern healthcare, strong education system, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
- Low renewal costs – permits are valid for 5 years and relatively inexpensive to renew.
Things to Consider Before Applying
- Residency does not grant the right to work in Greece or the EU.
- Citizenship requires 7 years of tax residency and proof of integration (language exam, citizenship test).
- Real estate used for the visa cannot be rented short-term (Airbnb, etc.)—only long-term leases are allowed.
- Processing times now exceed 18 months due to high demand.
- You must maintain your investment to keep your residency until citizenship.
History of the Greek Golden Visa
Launched in 2013, the program quickly became one of Europe’s most successful. By 2023:
- Over 31,000 main applicants received Greek residency.
- Investments generated €7.1 billion for Greece’s economy.
- Most applicants came from China, Turkey, Russia, and the Middle East.
Applications peaked in 2023 with 8,506 submissions, highlighting its strong global appeal compared to other EU residency programs.
Who Is Eligible for the Greece Golden Visa?
Any non-EU/EEA citizen who:
- Is at least 18 years old
- Has a clean criminal record
- Holds valid health insurance
- Makes an eligible investment in Greece
Greek Golden Visa Investment Options (2025)
As of August 31, 2024, the updated investment thresholds are:
- €800,000 real estate – single property (120m²+) in Athens, Thessaloniki, or major islands (e.g., Mykonos, Santorini).
- €400,000 real estate – single property (120m²+) in other parts of Greece.
- €250,000–€400,000 special projects – restoration of historic buildings or commercial-to-residential conversions.
- €500,000 capital investment – government bonds, REITs, or Greek private equity funds.
- €400,000 long-term lease – hotel or furnished tourist residence (minimum 10 years).
👉 Transitional rules: If you placed a 10% deposit by September 30, 2024, and finalize by December 31, 2024, you may still qualify under the older thresholds (€250,000 / €500,000).
How to Apply for the Greek Golden Visa
- Choose your investment (real estate, lease, or capital contribution).
- Get a Greek tax number (AFM) and open a local bank account.
- Complete the investment (purchase property or transfer funds).
- Submit application & documents (passport, insurance, proof of funds, criminal record, etc.).
- Receive temporary permit (“blue papers”) valid for 1 year.
- Provide biometrics in Greece within 6 months.
- Get residency permit – valid for 5 years and renewable.
Renewal & Citizenship
- Renewal: Every 5 years, as long as the investment remains valid.
- Citizenship: After 7 years of tax residency (183 days per year in Greece), plus language proficiency and passing a citizenship exam.
Is the Greece Golden Visa Right for You?
The Greek Golden Visa 2025 is ideal if you want:
✔ Residency without relocation requirements
✔ Schengen access and EU mobility
✔ A family-inclusive investment program
✔ Affordable entry compared to other EU Golden Visas
If your ultimate goal is EU residency with flexibility, Greece remains one of the best Golden Visa programs in Europe.
