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What is the Greece Golden Visa Program?

The Greece Golden Visa Program, also known as the Greece Investment Visa, offers a pathway for non-EU/EEA nationals to acquire permanent residence permits in Greece. Note that VisaConnect's Visa Consulltants and our partner Greek Property company and Greek Lawyers can assist you with the complete purchase of Property and the Greek Golden Residence permit application.  This program has been successful since its introduction by the Greek government in 2014. Here are some highlights:

1. 1. Affordable Investment Options: You can choose from various investment options, including real estate.
2. 2. Minimum Investment Requirements: The minimum investment starts from €250,000, in certain Areas.
3. 3. No Minimum Stay Requirements: Unlike some other programs, there are no strict minimum stay requirements.
4. 4. Family Inclusion: Your family members (including spouse and dependent children) can be included in the application.
5. 5. Quality of Life: Live in a safe European country with affordable living costs and excellent healthcare and education benefits.

Eligibility Criteria for Greece Golden Visa

To qualify for the program, you must meet the following requirements:

1. 1. Be a Non-EU/EEA Citizen: The program is open to non-EU/EEA nationals.
2. 2. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
3. 3. Clean Criminal Record: Applicants should have no criminal record.
4. 4. Investment: Make a significant investment as stipulated by the Greek government. The minimum value as at March 2024, is currently €250,000 if invested in real estate, but in ceratin Areas of Greece, the investment is €500,000 and there is currently Greek Government proposals to increase the investment amount to €800,000 Euros, in many Areas of Greece.
5. 5. Proof of Financial Investment: Provide evidence of your financial investment.

What are the Benefits of Greek Residency?

Whether you’re drawn to Greece’s rich history, stunning landscapes, or vibrant culture, establishing residency in this enchanting Mediterranean haven offers several advantages:

• Access to Education: As a permanent resident, you gain access to local universities and schools in Greece. This allows you to pursue educational opportunities and take advantage of other educational facilities.

• Banking and Financial Services: You can open a local bank account in Greece, facilitating financial transactions and managing your finances more conveniently.

• Healthcare Benefits: Local clinics and hospitals provide free medical services to residents.

• Path to Citizenship: After living in Greece for 7 years with a permanent residence permit, you become eligible to apply for Greek citizenship.

• Visa-Free Travel: As a permanent resident, you can visit European states under the Schengen agreement without a visa for up to 90 days every six months.

• Renewal Process: The permanent residence permit itself has an unlimited lifetime. You only need to fill out a simple form every five years to renew it. No need to go through the entire process again, as long as you have a valid passport and national ID card.

• Property Ownership: To maintain your residency, consider investing in property or adhering to Greek laws related to residency requirements.

How to Apply for the Greece Golden Visa?

If you’re interested in obtaining a Greek Golden Visa, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

1. 1.

   Initial Steps:

• Entry Visa: Determine if you need an entry visa to Greece.
• Consultation: Seek advice from a professional agency specializing in Golden Visas.
• Choose Your Investment: Decide on the investment you want to make to qualify for the visa.

     2. Application Process:

Apply for a Greek National Visa:

• Visit the Greek Embassy or Consulate in your home country to apply for a national visa.
• This visa allows you to enter Greece and finalize your investment.
• You can choose to hire legal assistance during this step, although it’s optional.

     3. Collect Required Documents:

Gather the necessary documents for your Greek Golden Visa application. These typically include:

• Two copies of the application form.
• Four recent, colored passport photos following Schengen Visa photo requirements.
• A certified copy of all pages of your valid passport.
• Certified proof of an active Schengen Visa (if applicable).

     4. Apply for the Greek Golden Visa:

• Visit the Alien and Immigration Department at the Decentralized Authority in Greece.
• Submit your application along with the required documents.
• The Greek Golden Visa is typically processed within 4-6 months.
• Remember that there are no in-country stay requirements to maintain your residency status, making it a flexible option.

    5. Property Investment:

• The Greek Golden Visa is primarily based on property investment.
• The minimum property investment threshold is €250,000. However, in certain popular areas of Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, the minimum threshold has increased to €500,000.
• You can buy more than one property to meet the requisite value.
• Choose between residential, agricultural, or commercial real estate, including new off-plan properties or existing ones.

Wrap Up of Greece Golden Visa

In summary, Greece’s permanent residence permit offers a gateway to a vibrant lifestyle, educational opportunities, and seamless travel within Europe

Whether you’re an expat seeking a new home, an investor diversifying your portfolio, or someone looking for a tranquil retirement spot, the Greek Golden Visa scheme caters to various demographics. So, consider the beauty of Greece, its rich culture, and the advantages of this program as you plan your next steps!  

Contact VisaConnect's Consultants for Assistance

For more detailed information, you can refer to our web opage regarding the complete and updated requirements for the Greece Golden Residence Permit, in 2024.