Greece Golden Visa: Benefits, Privileges & Pathway to Citizenship (2025)
As Golden Visa programs close across Europe, Greece’s Golden Visa stands out as one of the most attractive and accessible residency-by-investment options for non-European Union citizens. Launched in 2013, this program continues to thrive, offering visa-free Schengen travel, favorable tax incentives, and a path to citizenship in a beautiful, culturally rich country.
This guide explores the benefits, requirements, and privileges of Greece’s Golden Visa program and how it can serve as a gateway to European Union residency and citizenship.
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Why Choose Greece’s Golden Visa?
Greece offers:
- Affordable Investment Thresholds (compared to other EU countries).
- Visa-Free Travel across 26 Schengen Zone countries.
- A low tax environment with special incentives for retirees and investors.
- Minimal Residency Requirements – only one day per year.
- The opportunity to include family members (spouse, children under 21, parents, and in-laws) in the application.
Minimum Investment Requirements For Greece Golden Visa 2025
The minimum investment requirement for the Greece Golden Visa is €250,000, but this varies by location:
- Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini: €500,000 minimum (from 2024 onwards).
- Other Regions: €250,000 minimum.
Key Update (2023):
- Investors who pay a 10% deposit on a property by July 31, 2023, can apply under the €250,000 threshold until December 31, 2023.
💡 Pro Tip: Acting before these deadlines can save investors significant costs in high-demand areas.
Who Can Apply for the Greece Golden Visa?
The Greece Golden Visa is family-friendly, allowing applicants to include:
- Spouse
- Children under 21
- Parents (of both the investor and spouse)
This allows entire families to benefit from residency, tax incentives, and Schengen access under one investment.
Key Benefits of the Greece Golden Visa
1. Visa-Free Travel Across the Schengen Zone
Golden Visa holders can travel visa-free across 26 Schengen countries, enabling seamless movement for work, tourism, or leisure.
2. Minimal Residency Requirement
Unlike other programs, Greece requires just one day of residence per year to maintain the Golden Visa. This makes it ideal for investors who don’t plan to relocate permanently.
3. Tax Incentives and Low Tax Rates
- Flat 7% Tax Rate – For pensioners who transfer their tax residency to Greece.
- Favorable Tax Regime – Investors benefit from one of the lowest tax rates in Europe.
- No Worldwide Income Tax – Greece does not tax global income unless the investor establishes full tax residency.
4. Low Cost of Living & High Quality of Life
- Affordable housing and daily expenses.
- Access to high-quality healthcare and prestigious educational institutions.
- Stunning Mediterranean landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.
5. Pathway to Greek Citizenship
- After seven years of holding a residency permit, Golden Visa holders can apply for Greek citizenship.
- Greek citizenship grants full EU benefits, including the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union.
6. Fast Processing Time
- Golden Visa applications are processed within 90 to 120 days—one of the fastest in Europe.
Residency vs. Citizenship: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Residency (Golden Visa) | Greek Citizenship |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-Free Schengen Travel | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Permanent EU Work Rights | 🚫 No | ✅ Yes (EU-wide rights) |
| Minimum Stay Requirement | 1 Day/Year | Must Reside in Greece for Naturalization |
| Family Inclusion | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Tax Residency Benefits | ✅ Optional (Tax Breaks) | ✅ Full Tax Resident Benefits |
Greece Golden Visa vs. Other European Golden Visas
| Country | Minimum Investment | Residency Requirement | Citizenship Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greece | €250,000 – €500,000 | 1 Day/Year | 7 Years |
| Portugal | €500,000 | 7 Days/Year | 5 Years |
| Spain | €500,000 | No Residency Required | 10 Years |
| Italy | €250,000+ | 183 Days/Year | 10 Years |
How to Apply for Greece’s Golden Visa
- Select Your Investment
- Choose property or real estate that meets the investment threshold.
- Ensure the property is in a qualifying area.
- Submit Your Application
- Work with a licensed immigration advisor to compile the required documents.
- Submit the application to Greece’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum.
- Approval and Residency
- Upon approval (typically within 3-4 months), investors receive a 5-year renewable residency permit.
Is the Greece Golden Visa Worth It?
For investors and families seeking:
- Affordable access to Europe
- Tax breaks and financial incentives
- A path to EU citizenship with minimal commitment
The Greece Golden Visa is a compelling option, offering both immediate residency benefits and long-term growth potential.
Final Thoughts
As European nations tighten their residency-by-investment programs, Greece’s Golden Visa remains an exceptional opportunity to secure EU residency, financial incentives, and future citizenship. Whether you are an investor, retiree, or entrepreneur, Greece offers an unparalleled mix of lifestyle, culture, and economic benefits.
Get in touch with our lawyers and let us guide you step by step
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Last Updated on 26 December 2024
