Greece

Greece offers permanent residency to foreign investors through its Golden Visa (MRP) program, with a refreshed set of investment options and thresholds rolled out in 2025. The program provides EU residency, freedom of movement, and a high standard of living.

Greece

Greece Golden Visa Program (MRP)

Greece offers permanent residency to foreign investors through its Golden Visa (MRP) program, with a refreshed set of investment options and thresholds rolled out in 2025. The program provides EU residency, freedom of movement, and a high standard of living.

Major Investment Options

1. Real Estate

  • €800,000: properties of at least 120 sqm in high-demand areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini.

  • €400,000: properties of at least 120 sqm in other areas.

  • €250,000: converting commercial property to residential, or restoring heritage buildings.

2. Startup Investment

  • €250,000: invest in a startup registered with the Greek government.

  • Requirements: investor's stake capped at 33%; at least 2 jobs created within a year of investment, maintained for at least 5 years.

3. Other Investment Options

  • €400,000: shares or corporate bonds of Greek companies.

  • €400,000: Greek government bonds (minimum 3-year maturity).

  • €400,000: deposit with a Greek bank for at least 12 months.

  • €350,000: smaller deposit option in a Greek bank for at least 12 months.

Application Process Summary

1. Select an investment route and prepare funds:

Pick one of the options above and arrange the required capital.

2. Open a Greek bank account:

Open an account for investment and fund transfer purposes.

3. Execute investment and submit documents:

Carry out the chosen investment and lodge the required paperwork.

4. Residency approval:

After review, the Golden Visa is granted.

5. Citizenship application (after 5 years):

Citizenship may be applied for after 5+ years of residency.

Important Notes

  • Real-estate caps changed:

    From 2025, real-estate investment thresholds have risen in some areas and additional conditions apply.

  • Holding period:

    Investors must hold the qualifying investment for at least 5 years; early withdrawal may affect Golden Visa status.

  • Short-term rentals restricted:

    Properties acquired through the Golden Visa cannot be used for short-term rental (e.g., Airbnb); violations can incur penalties.

Eligibility (Common Criteria)

1. Age & health

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and in good health.

2. Legal record

Applicants must have no criminal record in Greece or their country of residence; a record may lead to refusal.

3. Investment threshold

Meet the minimum investment threshold for the chosen route, with lawful proof of source of funds.

4. Residency requirement

After receiving the visa, stay in Greece for at least 7 days; citizenship is available after 5 years of residency.

5. Family inclusion

Spouse and children may be included. Children must be under 18, or under 26 if financially dependent.

Advantages of the Greece Golden Visa

  • 1

    EU residency:

    Live and move freely within EU countries, including Greece.

  • 2

    Tax benefits:

    Favorable tax regime, including low income and inheritance tax rates.

  • 3

    PR and citizenship pathway:

    Eligible to apply for citizenship after 5 years of residency.

  • 4

    Family inclusion:

    Spouse, children, and other direct family members may be included.

  • 5

    High quality of life:

    Safe environment, excellent healthcare, and strong education system.

Greece's Golden Visa program offers flexibility through diverse investment options. Beyond real estate, you can invest in startups or established companies — opportunities that benefit Greek economy and your portfolio alike. It provides a clear pathway to EU residency and eventual citizenship, paired with the safety and quality of life Greece is known for.

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