Greece Immigration Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get residency by investment in Greece?

Greece offers non-EU foreigners the Golden Visa program with several investment options, including real estate, new business and financial instruments. Real estate is the easiest and most popular. Residency is renewable every five years as long as all the requirements are maintained.

How much do I have to invest to get residency in Greece?
 
A real estate investment has to be worth at least 250,000 euros. The investment could be a purchase or a long-term lease in hotel and tourist accommodations. An investment in a business also has to be worth at least 250,000. Financial instruments have to be worth at least 400,000 to 800,000 euros. There are also legal and government fees.

How much do I have to invest to get citizenship in Greece?

Greece does not have a direct citizenship-by-investment program.

What are the requirements for citizenship by investment in Greece?

Greece does not have a direct citizenship by investment program, but Golden Visa holders can apply for citizenship after seven years.

What are the requirements for residency by investment in Greece?

Aside from meeting minimum investment requirements, a foreign investor might need to secure a Schengen visa to enter Greece and then get a Greek tax number and open a local bank account. Investors who want to start a business have to submit a business plan. Joint business ownership is an option. The business has to have positive impact on local economy. The applicant also needs to have a power of attorney signed and notarized by a lawyer to handle all formalities. Investments have to be completed before the application for residency is filed.

How long does it take to get residency by investment in Greece?

The process takes about two months.

How many countries can I visit with a Greek passport?

A Greek passport allows visa-free access to 184 destinations.

Do I have to be present in Greece before getting the residency-by-investment application approved?

There is no requirement to live in Greece, but you have to visit at some point in the process.

Can I add my spouse and children on my application?

Yes. A spouse and children can be included in the application.

What are the criteria for my children to qualify for residency or citizenship in Greece?
 
Children under the age of 21 qualify for inclusion in the process.

Do I have the right to work in Greece after I obtain the residency through this program?

The permanent residency permit does not come with a work permit unless the resident is a company’s chief executive.

What is the tax situation after obtaining Greek residency or citizenship?
 
There are no special rules for foreign investors. Foreigners who get residency through real estate investment are taxed in the same way as any other property owner in the country. If an investor is also a tax resident, he or she might have to pay taxes on income from sources abroad.

Will Greek citizenship automatically grant me European citizenship?

Greece is part of the European Union so Greek citizenship comes with the right to live and work all over Europe.

How long do I have to wait before I can sell my investment in Greece?
 
It is necessary to keep the investment to renew the residency permit every five years.

Will my Greek citizenship expire?

No.

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