Unlocking the Unique Advantages of Greece’s Residency Programme
An article written by Elena Shiapani, CEO of MIBS Group for the IM Yearbook 2025.
Known as one of the more accessible and advantageous residency-by investment programmes in Europe, Greek’s Golden Visa offers a gateway not only to living in one of the most beautiful countries in the world but also to enjoying a wide array of economic, social, and strategic benefits.
Over recent years, Greece has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising investment destinations, drawing the attention of global investors with its growing economy, strategic location, the appeal of a Mediterranean lifestyle and numerous opportunities across sectors. From infrastructure to tourism, real estate to technology, Greece offers a wealth of advantages, backed by a supportive regulatory environment and government initiatives aimed at fostering foreign investment and key reforms aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, digitising public services, and advancing renewable energy initiatives.
The programme is highly attractive due to the visa-free access it grants to the Schengen Zone and its lack of residency requirements. Effective 1 September 2024, the minimum investment threshold for real estate in Greece has been raised to S800,000 in high-demand areas, including Athens, Thessaloniki, and islands with a population of over 3,100 inhabitants.
This investment must be allocated to a single property with a minimum surface area of 120 square metres. However, in areas outside these prime locations, the threshold is at €400,000 under similar conditions regarding property size.
Additionally, certain criteria allow for an investment minimum of S250,000, making Greece one of the most flexible and affordable options. A minimum investment requirement of €250,000 is available, irrespective of the property’s location or size, under certain conditions. Applicants may qualify for the Greek Golden Visa with a minimum threshold of €250,000 by investing in a commercial or industrial property undergoing conversion to residential use, provided this investment is made in a single property.
The minimum threshold of S250,000 also applies for investments in listed buildings that are to be restored or reconstructed, provided the investment through real estate acquisition is directed towards a single property. Restoration or reconstruction work must be completed before applying for the Golden Visa, and the property cannot be sold until the work is finished. New regulations also restrict Golden Visa-acquired properties from being leased on short- term rental platforms like Airbnb.
The Golden Visa landscape in Europe is evolving. As changes unfold, prospective investors should stay informed about regulatory updates, monitor local market trends and thoughtfully consider all options to ensure the best possible decision for their investment journey.
Location of the property remains a critical factor in maximising return on investment, making it essential to select properties with strong potential for value appreciation. Partnering with a trusted developer with extensive experience and a solid understanding of the Golden Visa programme ensures seamless navigation of every step, from property selection to legal procedures.
Greece’s dynamic blend of strategic advantages, government support, and economic diversity makes it an increasingly attractive investment destination. As the country continues to embrace growth across key sectors like real estate, tourism, renewable energy, and technology, the opportunities for investors to thrive are significant.
