The Greece Golden Visa Program is a residency program that allows non-European Union citizens to obtain a long-term residence permit in Greece, provided they meet the specified investment requirements.
The program, which has been in effect since 2013, offers investors and their family members a safe, predictable, and advantageous opportunity for living and investing in Europe. Golden Visa holders gain the right to reside in Greece and also benefit from visa-free travel to all Schengen countries.
What is the Greece Golden Visa Program?
The Greece Golden Visa program is a scheme that enables investors to obtain long-term residency in Greece by making investments such as purchasing real estate or establishing a business. This program was introduced by the Greek government in 2013. Investors can obtain a residence permit by making a real estate investment of at least €250,000 or by investing €350,000 in funds.
With the residence permit card, investors can reside in Greece without limitation and also travel visa-free to all 27 EU member states within the Schengen Area.
Investment Options
Investment options valid as of 2026:
A) Residence Permit in Greece through Real Estate Investment:
In accordance with the updated regulations that came into effect on September 1, 2024, the minimum investment amounts for real estate investments under the Greece Golden Visa Program are determined as follows:
1. €800,000 Investment Threshold Regions
Athens city center
Thessaloniki city center
Greek islands (Mykonos, Santorini)
Regions with a population exceeding 3,100
In this category, the property to be acquired must be a single unit of at least 120 m².
2. €400,000 Investment Threshold Regions
All regions of Greece outside those listed above fall under this category.
In this category, the property to be acquired must be a single unit of at least 120 m².
3. €250,000 Conversion and Renovation Projects
The previous threshold of €250,000 remains applicable for investments in projects where former commercial properties such as offices, hotels, and industrial buildings are restored and converted into residential units.
Within this scope:
There are no location restrictions. Even in prime areas such as Athens center, Kolonaki, Glyfada, and Voula, a limited number of such projects are available.
In addition to meeting one of the investment options above, the main applicant must be at least 18 years old. Exceptionally, children aged 14 may become the main applicant with parental consent.
For detailed information about Golden Visa-eligible real estate projects and the application process, you may contact us.
B) Residence Permit in Greece through Fund Investment
Within the scope of the Greece Golden Visa program, it is also possible to obtain a residence permit through investment funds as an alternative to real estate.
With a minimum investment of €400,000, investors can obtain an initial 5-year residence permit by investing in eligible funds based in Greece or investing in the Greek market. This permit also covers the spouse and children and can be renewed indefinitely.
Advantages:
No need to purchase physical real estate
Professional fund management and portfolio diversification
Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area
No physical residence requirement for maintaining the permit
The Greece residence permit via fund investment is an ideal solution for investors seeking both flexibility and liquidity. For detailed information about fund options and the application process, you may contact us.
Greece Golden Visa Application Process
The Golden Visa process can largely be carried out remotely from Turkey. Only a short visit to Greece is required for the biometric data stage.
Property Selection: A property compliant with Golden Visa regulations is selected, and a reservation agreement is signed with a reservation fee.
Tax Number (AFM) and Documentation: A Greek tax number is obtained on behalf of the applicant; required documents are prepared and translated.
Title Deed Transfer and Completion of Investment: The remaining payment is made, and the title deed transfer is completed before a notary.
Golden Visa Application and Temporary Permit: After the title deed transfer, the application is submitted, and a temporary residence permit (Blue Paper) is issued shortly thereafter.
Biometric Procedures and Card Delivery: Biometric data is provided, and the Golden Visa card is issued and delivered.
The Golden Visa card is issued for 5 years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the ownership of the property is maintained.
How Long Does the Greece Golden Visa Application Process Take?
The Greece Golden Visa application process is typically completed within 6 to 8 months, depending on the type of investment and the selected property. During the waiting period for the card issuance, applicants are granted a temporary residence permit, allowing legal residence and travel rights.
Which Family Members Can Be Included?
The main applicant may include the following family members in the application:
Spouse
Children under the age of 21 who are unmarried
Parents
Parents-in-law
What Are the Advantages of the Program?
Greece Golden Visa holders benefit from the following advantages:
Residence permits for all family members together,
Visa-free travel within the EU Schengen Area,
No residency requirement in Greece,
Eligibility to apply for Greek citizenship after 7 years of legal residence (subject to meeting conditions),
Ability to rent out the property to third parties,
Residence permit valid for 5 years with indefinite renewability,
One of the lowest investment thresholds among European residency-by-investment programs.