The Greek 5-year residence permit program for third-country nationals, starting in 2013, enables investors/property owners through the purchase of real estate worth 250,000 Euros or the investment between 3 to 100 million Euros in infrastructure projects or in Greek companies creating 150 new jobs, to obtain a permanent residence permit. From September 1st, 2024 there are some changes in the minimum amount of investment.
As a Greece Golden Visa investor, you can still obtain a five-year residence permit by spending €250,000 on current real estate investment opportunities, such as converting commercial properties into residential units or repairing listed buildings.
This option provides a more accessible entry point into the Greece Golden Visa program.
The investment that required under the Greek law is much lower than in other European countries, such as in Cyprus where a purchase of 300,000 Euros is required or in Spain a purchase of 500,000 Euros, ranking our country among the most privileged options.
Greek law does not require a minimum period of stay in the country to maintain the residence permit, unlike other European states such as Andorra, which requires a stay of 90 days a year.
Our office ensures the rapid issuance of the permanent permit so that the investor can move freely in all countries of the Schengen area.
WHO CAN APPLY
Eligible Applicants
The Greek Golden Visa scheme applies only to all Non-EU citizens who invest in Greece, according to the Golden Visa Law requirements, as mentioned above.
At the same time they can obtain a residence permit:
-the spouse of the investor.
- unmarried children up to the age of 21.
- the other of the spouses or partners with whom the third country citizen has entered into a cohabitation agreement in Greece.
- the unmarried children of the supporter or the other spouses or partners, as long as custody has been legally assigned to him/her for the children of the supporter and for the children of the other spouses or partners to him/her under the age of 21.
- Parents and parents-in-law always qualify with no further conditions
Golden Visa via investment in Real Estate
The Golden Visa Program facilitates investors in securing Greek residency through investment in one or more properties within Greece, with a minimum investment threshold of €250,000. However, in effect from September 1st, 2024, the new Golden Visa thresholds, are set as follows:
For the Region of Attica, the Regional Units of Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, as well as islands with populations exceeding 3,100 inhabitants, the minimum property value is set at 800,000 EUR at the time of acquisition.
Conversely, in all other regions of the country, the minimum real estate value stands at 400,000 EUR.
Profits
Accessible real estate investment starting at €250,000. (as mentioned above)
Ability for extended family circle such as spouse, children under the age limit of 21, direct relatives in the investor’s ascending line, direct relatives in the spouse’s ascending line.
Unrestricted residency in Greece.
Access to public health and education in Greece.
No disclosure of information of the investor to the authorities of the country of origin regarding the endorsement of Golden Visa
No criminal or heath record required.
Golden Visa via investment in Term Deposit
Extremely low investment amount in relation with the rest of European investment programs. The minimum amount of a term deposit is set at €500,000.
The one year fixed deposit will be automatically renewed upon maturity. The main applicant, spouse, unmarried children under the age of 21 and parents of both spouses are entitled to enter the country and apply for a residence permit.
The fixed deposit offer stable interest per annual, no investment risk, and the deposit can be withdrawn at any time. To date, we have a 100% success rate with our applications. After obtaining permanent residence, investor can enjoy excellent healthcare and public education in Greece, as well as free travel to 29 Schengen countries and Cyprus.
Provision of currency and banking system stability which is comprised of the operation of merely four systemic bank institutions with complete restructuring. This also includes contemporary banking products with high-performance ability.
Simple and fast exit strategy by just transferring the funds to another jurisdiction.
There is no minimum stay requirements.
Free access to public health and education in Greece.
Key Points to Consider:
1. Eligibility of a Minor as the Main Investor:
In most cases, investment programs like Greece’s Golden Visa are designed for adults who have the legal capacity to enter into financial transactions. Minors cannot directly own property or make investments without a legal guardian acting on their behalf.
However, parents or guardians can make investments in the name of their minor child. This requires careful planning to comply with Greek law and the program's requirements.
2. Role of the Legal Guardian:
The legal guardian (usually the parent) would act on behalf of the minor during the application process.
The guardian must demonstrate that the investment made in the child's name meets the criteria for the Golden Visa, such as a minimum €250,000 investment in real estate.
3. Residency Rights for Family Members:
The Greek Golden Visa allows the main investor’s immediate family members—spouse, minor children, and, in some cases, dependent adult children—to obtain residency permits.
If the minor child is the main investor, the parents and siblings of the child could apply as dependents under the program.
4. Benefits of Investing in a Minor’s Name:
Securing residency for the entire family under the child’s name can be advantageous for families planning long-term relocation or future asset planning.
When the child reaches adulthood, they may have simplified procedures for renewing or upgrading their residency status.
5. Challenges and Precautions:
Legal complications might arise regarding ownership rights and responsibilities, especially if the child is not of legal age to manage the investment.
Parents must consult with legal and financial advisors to ensure the investment complies with Greek property laws and the Golden Visa regulations.
6. Long-Term Implications:
Investing in a child’s name can have tax and inheritance planning implications.
Families should consider how this decision aligns with their long-term goals for residency, education, and wealth management
How Long Does the Process Take?
Golden Visa Application Submission (1–2 Weeks)
Timeframe: Typically 1–2 weeks after completing the investment.
Key Steps:
- Gather and prepare all required documents, including proof of investment, valid passports, and family relationship documentation for dependents.
- Submit the application to the relevant authorities in Greece (usually the local Decentralized Administration office).
Biometrics Appointment (Within 1 Month)
Timeframe: Biometrics appointment must be scheduled shortly after submitting the application.
Key Steps:
- Visit Greece in person to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photos). This applies to the main applicant and all dependents applying for the visa.
Processing and Issuance of Residency Permits (2–3 Months)
Timeframe: 2–3 months after biometrics submission.
Key Steps:
- The authorities review the application and conduct verifications.
- Once approved, residency cards are issued.
Expedited Cases
In some cases, particularly if you work with experienced professionals (lawyers or consultants specializing in Golden Visa applications), the process might be expedited, and approvals could come in as little as 2–3 months.
Factors That Can Affect the Timeline
Document Completeness: Errors or missing documents can delay the process.
Property Complexity: If there are legal issues with the property or delays in payment/registration, the timeline may extend.
Demand Levels: During peak periods, applications might take longer due to a backlog.
Final Note:
Although 3–6 months is the standard processing time, it’s advisable to start the process early and work with legal and immigration experts to ensure smooth and timely completion.
FAST PROCESS
Benefits of the Fast Process:
- Efficient Access to EU Residency: With minimal delays, investors and their families gain the right to live, work, and travel within the Schengen Zone.
- No Minimum Stay Requirement: Residency is maintained without the need to reside in Greece, making it ideal for frequent travelers or international businesspeople.
- Professional Assistance: Engaging experienced advisors ensures a smooth and swift application process, avoiding common pitfalls or delays.
HOW WE MAY ASSIST YOU:
Securing a Greek Golden Visa is a life-changing opportunity, offering residency in Greece and access to the EU for you and your family. The process, however, involves intricate legal, financial, and bureaucratic requirements. Choosing the right legal partner ensures your application is seamless, compliant, and stress-free. Here’s why we are the best choice to guide you:
1. Expertise in Greek Golden Visa Law
Our legal team specializes in residency-by-investment programs, with a comprehensive understanding of:
The legal framework of the Greek Golden Visa program.
Requirements for real estate and other qualifying investments.
Rules for including family members as dependents.
Our in-depth knowledge ensures that your application is prepared and processed correctly from start to finish.
2. End-to-End Support
We handle every aspect of your Golden Visa journey, including:
Advising on investment options that meet program criteria.
Conducting property due diligence and ensuring compliance.
Preparing, submitting, and tracking your residency application.
Supporting renewals and future upgrades to permanent residency or citizenship.
You’ll have a single point of contact for all your needs, ensuring clarity and consistency throughout the process.
3. Tailored Solutions for International Clients
As experts in serving international investors, we address the unique challenges you may face, including:
Navigating Greek bureaucracy as a non-resident.
Obtaining a Greek tax number (AFM) and setting up a local bank account.
Facilitating remote transactions through power of attorney, so you don’t need to be in Greece for every step.
4. Fast-Track Processing
Time is often of the essence for Golden Visa applicants. Our expertise allows us to:
Expedite the application process by ensuring all documents are complete and accurate from the start.
Schedule biometrics appointments promptly.
Coordinate efficiently with Greek authorities to minimize delays.
5. Comprehensive Due Diligence
Your investment is the foundation of your residency application. We ensure:
Thorough legal checks on property ownership and compliance with Greek laws.
Verification that your investment meets the €250,000 minimum requirement.
Risk mitigation to protect your financial and legal interests.
6. Multilingual Services
Our team is fluent in multiple languages, including Greek and English, ensuring that you fully understand every aspect of your application. We bridge cultural and linguistic gaps to make the process straightforward and transparent.
7. Family-Centered Approach
The Greek Golden Visa program allows you to include your spouse, children under 21, and even dependent parents. We:
Help prepare documentation to include all eligible family members.
Ensure smooth processing for everyone in your application.
Provide advice on how family members can benefit from residency rights.
8. Transparent Pricing and Clear Communication
We pride ourselves on:
Providing a clear breakdown of costs upfront, including legal fees, taxes, and government charges.
Offering regular updates on your application status.
Keeping you informed of changes to laws or requirements that may affect your application.
9. Extensive Network of Professionals
In addition to legal expertise, we offer access to a trusted network of professionals:
Real estate agents to help identify eligible properties.
Tax advisors for financial planning and compliance.
Engineers and architects for property inspections or renovations.
10. Proven Track Record
We have successfully helped numerous clients secure their Greek Golden Visas, earning a reputation for reliability and excellence. Our clients consistently praise our professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to deliver results.
Choosing us means partnering with a team dedicated to your success. We combine legal expertise, personalized service, and a client-first approach to ensure your Greek Golden Visa journey is smooth and rewarding.
With us, you gain more than just a lawyer. You gain a trusted partner committed to helping you achieve your dreams of living, investing, and thriving in Greece.
