Greece Residency by Investment Explained Simply
Greece residency by investment is a legal and government-regulated way for non-EU citizens to obtain a Greek residence permit by making a qualifying investment in the country. It is commonly known through the Greece Golden Visa framework and is designed for investors who want European residency, family security, and Schengen mobility without the obligation to relocate permanently.
What Is Greece Residency by Investment?
In simple terms, Greece residency by investment allows you to invest in approved assets in Greece and receive a renewable residence permit in return.
At its core, the program offers:
- Legal residency in Greece
- Investment-based qualification
- A five-year residence permit, renewable as long as the investment is maintained
The residence permit allows you to live in Greece if you choose and travel freely within the Schengen Area for short stays.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be 18 years or older
- Be a non-EU / non-EEA citizen
- Have a clean criminal record
- Hold private health insurance covering Greece
- Provide evidence of legal funds from a legitimate foreign source
There are no language, education, or business experience requirements.
You can also check your eligibility for free to see if your profile qualifies for the program before taking any steps.
Minimum Investment Requirements
The minimum investment amount depends on the type of investment and location.
1) Real Estate Investment Options
| Property Type | Minimum Investment | Where It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Listed building restoration or commercial-to-residential conversion | €250,000 | Any location in Greece |
| Single residential property (min. 120 sqm) | €400,000 | Most regions of Greece |
| Residential property in high-demand zones | €800,000 | Athens, Thessaloniki, and islands with 3,100+ residents |
The property must be fully owned and legally registered.
2) Alternative Investment Options
Greece residency by investment can also be obtained through approved non-property investments, including:
| Investment Type | Minimum Investment | Key Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel or tourist residence lease | €400,000 / €800,000 | 10-year lease, amount depends on location |
| Fixed-term bank deposit | €500,000 | Held with a Greek bank |
| Capital investment (funds, bonds, shares) | €500,000 | Greek real estate companies or listed assets |
| Greek government bonds | €500,000 | Minimum 3-year maturity |
| Listed shares or bonds | €800,000 | Traded on Greek-regulated markets |
| Greece-focused investment funds | €350,000 | Funds must invest exclusively in Greece |
Key Benefits
- Visa-free Schengen travel (up to 90 days in any 180-day period)
- No minimum stay requirement to maintain residency
- Long-term renewable status without citizenship obligation
- Ability to earn rental income from qualifying real estate investments
- Stable EU legal framework governing the program
How the Process Works
The application process follows clear, structured steps:
Choose an Investment
Select a qualifying real estate or capital investment in Greece.
Complete Basic Formalities
Finish KYC checks and obtain a Greek tax number (AFM).
Make the Investment
Sign the required agreements and transfer the investment funds.
Apply for the Golden Visa
Submit all required documents to the Greek authorities.
Give Biometrics & Get Residency
Provide fingerprints and photos.
Once approved, receive a 5-year renewable Greek residence permit.
Get a Professional Greece Golden Visa Consultation
Understanding how the Greece Golden Visa works is only the first step. The real risk lies in choosing the wrong investment, wrong location, or outdated assumptions that can delay, weaken, or even invalidate your application.
A professional consultation helps you:
- Confirm which investment threshold applies to you based on current regulations
- Avoid properties or structures that don’t qualify for Golden Visa approval
- Understand family eligibility, renewal rules, and long-term implications
- Get clarity before committing large capital, not after
If you’re serious about applying and want to do it correctly, legally, a structured consultation is the smartest next step.
Book a consultation to assess your eligibility and understand your best Greece Golden Visa options before you invest.
