Greece Golden Visa in 2025: Comprehensive Guide to Residency by Investment
Article written by Ramin Shafighi, Marketing & B2B Channel Manager at iLand.
In recent years, Golden Visa programs have emerged as one of the most popular pathways for obtaining residency in European countries, particularly Greece. This program allows foreign investors to acquire long-term (Permanent) residency in Schengen Zone countries through real estate purchases or investments in designated sectors. This article provides a detailed overview of the Greece Golden Visa program in 2025.
Benefits of the Greece Golden Visa
| Benefit | Description |
| Access to the Schengen Area | Visa-free travel to 27 Schengen member countries |
| Family Residency | Residency rights for spouse and children under 21 + Parents of main applicant & spouse |
| No Requirement for Permanent Residency | No mandatory stay period in Greece |
| Investment Opportunity in a Growing Property Market | Positive ROI in Greece’s real estate market |
| Potential for Future Citizenship | Eligibility for Greek citizenship after meeting conditions |
Eligibility Criteria (2025 Update)
To qualify for the Greece Golden Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum Real Estate Investment:
- €800,000 in a single property (minimum 120 m²) located in high-demand areas such as central Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and other designated islands
- €400,000 in a single property (minimum 120 m²) in all other areas of Greece
- €250,000 for special cases, such as converting commercial properties to residential use or restoring listed buildings (conditions apply)
- Clean Criminal Record
- Valid Health Insurance covering the applicant in Greece
- Proof of Legal Source of Funds
Application Process
· Property Selection
Investors must select properties that meet the program’s conditions.
· Contract Signing and Fund Transfer
After selecting a property, the purchase agreement is signed, and the investment amount is transferred to the seller’s account.
· Submission of Documents
Applicants submit identity documents, property deeds, health insurance, and other required papers to the immigration office.
· Residency Permit Issuance
Upon approval, a 5-year residency permit is granted to the investor and eligible family members.
Comparison with Other European Golden Visas
| Country | Minimum Investment Amount | Residency Approval Time | Citizenship Eligibility | Current Status |
| Greece | €250,000 – €400,000 | 2-3 months | After 7 years | Active |
| Portugal | €280,000 | 3-6 months | After 5 years | No longer available |
| Spain | €500,000 | 2-3 months | After 10 years | No longer available |
Potential Risks and Considerations Before Applying
While the Greece Golden Visa presents numerous advantages, it is important for potential investors to be aware of certain risks and considerations before proceeding:
· Fluctuating Property Prices: Although the Greek real estate market has seen steady growth, property values can be sensitive to economic shifts and political developments.
· Additional Costs: Beyond the minimum investment, applicants should account for legal fees, property taxes, and maintenance expenses.
· Residency vs. Citizenship: Residency under the Golden Visa program does not automatically lead to citizenship. Applicants must meet additional criteria such as residency duration and language requirements.
· Regulatory Changes: Immigration policies and investment thresholds are subject to change, which may affect future applications and program conditions.
Conducting thorough due diligence and consulting with legal experts familiar with Greek immigration law is essential before making any investment decisions.
Key Updates for 2025
- Potential increase in minimum investment amounts in popular areas
- Digitalization of administrative processes
- Rising property prices in central locations require careful market analysis
Why Greece Remains an Attractive Investment Destination in 2025
Greece continues to position itself as a highly appealing investment destination for international buyers in 2025. With its strategic location in Southeast Europe, improving economic indicators, and rising tourism figures, the Greek property market has demonstrated resilience and consistent growth. Additionally, the country benefits from a relatively low cost of living compared to other European nations and a high quality of life, factors which further enhance its appeal for residency-seeking investors.
Recent government initiatives aimed at digitizing public services and enhancing infrastructure have also contributed to a more investor-friendly environment. These reforms are designed to simplify procedures, reduce bureaucracy, and attract more foreign capital, especially in the real estate sector.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I rent out my property purchased under the Golden Visa program?
Yes. Property owners under the Greece Golden Visa scheme are allowed to rent out their properties for additional income.
Is it possible to finance the property purchase through a mortgage?
No. The investment amount must come from the investor’s own funds. Mortgages or loans are not permitted for the qualifying investment.
Do I need to live in Greece to maintain my residency?
No. There is no minimum stay requirement to retain residency under the Greece Golden Visa program.
Conclusion
The Greece Golden Visa remains one of the most accessible and affordable residency-by-investment programs in Europe. With clearly defined advantages, eligibility criteria, and a transparent process, it continues to attract investors seeking European residency and long-term investment opportunities in the region.
The Greece Golden Visa remains one of the most accessible and affordable residency-by-investment programs in Europe. With clearly defined advantages, eligibility criteria, and a transparent process, it continues to attract investors seeking European residency and long-term investment opportunities in the region.
Prospective investors are advised to consult with legal and migration advisory firms specializing in residency-by-investment programs to better understand the current regulations and procedures. One such firm is iland, which provides services related to investment migration processes
