What is Golden Greece Visa
The Golden Greece Visa is a residency-by-investment program launched by the Greek government in 2013. It enables non-EU nationals to obtain permanent residency in Greece by investing in real estate or other qualifying assets. With a minimum investment of €250,000, individuals and their families can live, travel, and enjoy the benefits of the EU without mandatory stay requirements in Greece.
History of the Program
The Greek government introduced the Golden Visa program to attract foreign capital and revive its real estate market post-economic crisis. Since then, it has become one of the most competitive and popular residency-by-investment programs in Europe.
With its affordable entry threshold and strategic geographic location, Greece offers investors more than just a residency permit — it provides access to a stable European lifestyle, robust healthcare, quality education, and a thriving property market. The Golden Visa program not only serves as a gateway to the Schengen Zone but also offers long-term value through property appreciation and the potential for future citizenship, making it a smart and forward-thinking investment.
Legal Framework
The program operates under Greek Immigration and Social Integration Code – Law 4251/2014 – with amendments aligning it with EU standards. This legal infrastructure ensures transparency and regulatory security for investors.
Beyond legal assurance, the program is known for its efficiency and investor-friendly process. Applicants are not required to demonstrate language proficiency, educational background, or professional experience, making it accessible to a broad range of investors. Combined with the option to include family members under one application, the Greece Golden Visa stands out as a simple yet powerful residency solution within the European Union.
Investment Types
Eligible investments include the purchase of residential or commercial property, ownership of shares in tourist accommodations, long-term lease agreements for hotels, and strategic investments in energy or infrastructure projects
This wide range of investment options allows applicants to align their residency goals with their financial strategies—whether seeking rental income, capital appreciation, or business expansion within the EU. Greece’s diversified real estate and infrastructure sectors present strong potential for growth, making the Golden Visa not only a gateway to residency but also a smart long-term investment opportunity.
Application Process
The process involves property selection, legal due diligence, contract signing, submission of visa documents, biometrics, and final approval. The average time for residency issuance is 60-90 days.
Throughout the application journey, investors benefit from a clear and streamlined procedure supported by legal professionals and licensed agents. With no mandatory interview or language test, the emphasis is placed on the legitimacy of the investment and the accuracy of documentation. This investor-centric approach makes the Greece Golden Visa one of the most efficient and accessible residency pathways in Europe.
Visa Validity & Renewal
The initial residency permit is valid for 5 years and is renewable indefinitely as long as the investment is maintained.
This long-term flexibility gives investors the confidence to plan for the future without the pressure of frequent renewals or relocation. As long as the qualifying asset is retained, applicants can enjoy uninterrupted residency in Greece—along with the freedom to travel, live, or invest across the Schengen Zone. For many, it serves as a strategic stepping stone toward full European citizenship.
Path to Citizenship
Investors are eligible to apply for Greek citizenship after legally residing in Greece for 7 consecutive years and meeting integration requirements such as language proficiency and cultural familiarity.
Gaining Greek citizenship not only provides a powerful EU passport but also grants full rights of a European citizen — including the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere within the European Union. For families, it means long-term security, expanded educational and career opportunities, and the ability to pass citizenship to future generations, solidifying their place in the European community.
Family Inclusion
The Golden Visa extends to the investor’s spouse, unmarried children under 21 (renewable until 24 if in education), and dependent parents of both the main applicant and spouse.
This inclusive family policy makes the Greece Golden Visa an ideal solution for those seeking to secure a better future not just for themselves, but for their entire family. It ensures stability, keeps families together, and allows dependents to benefit from Greece’s healthcare, education, and lifestyle advantages — all while enjoying the protections and mobility that come with EU residency.
