The Greece Golden Visa 2025 is one of Europe’s most attractive residency-by-investment programs. It allows non-EU citizens to obtain Greek residency through qualifying property investments, starting from €400,000. This guide explains the benefits, requirements, and full process for securing your Greece Investment Residency Permit (GIRP)
What Is the Greece Golden Visa (GIRP)?
The Greece Golden Visa, also known as the Greece Investment Residency Program (GIRP), offers residency to foreign investors who purchase property in Greece. It provides access to the Schengen Zone, a path to EU long-term residence, and includes family members under one application.
Key Benefits of the Greece Golden Visa
Residency and Family Inclusion
The Greece Golden Visa covers not just the investor but also close family members: spouse, children under 21, and parents of both the investor and the spouse. It also grants the right to live in Greece indefinitely and free movement within the Schengen Zone (90 days every 180 days).
High Quality of Life
Greece offers excellent education and healthcare, access to free public schooling for children, and a peaceful Mediterranean lifestyle.
Easy Access and Simple Requirements
Fast approval within 6–9 months, no physical stay requirement, no language test or management experience needed, and eligibility to apply for citizenship after 7 years if residency and language criteria are met. The program also features low property tax and no wealth tax. The Golden Visa is valid for 5 years and renewable as long as the investment is maintained.
Greece Golden Visa Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must be non-EU citizens, at least 18 years old, in good health, hold valid medical insurance, and make a qualifying real estate investment maintained throughout the residency period.
Greece Golden Visa Investment Options
| Investment Type | Minimum Amount | Location Details |
|---|---|---|
| Prime Regions | €800,000 | Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, or islands with 3,100+ residents |
| Other Regions | €400,000 | All other regions in Greece |
| Special Conversions | €250,000 | Converting commercial property into residential or restoring heritage buildings |
Additional conditions: the investment must be a single property of at least 120m², and the property cannot be used for short-term rentals like Airbnb.
Step-by-Step Greece Golden Visa Process
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Due Diligence & Application | Choose a property and sign Power of Attorney in Greece. Complete the property purchase. |
| Step 2: Submission & Temporary Residence | Book a submission appointment. Your lawyer submits documents and obtains a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) valid for 1 year. |
| Step 3: Biometrics Submission | The applicant and dependents visit Greece to provide biometrics before TRC expiration. |
| Step 4: Final Approval | The residence permit is approved within 2 months and can be renewed every 5 years as long as the investment remains active. |
Estimated total processing time: around 6 months.
Why Choose Greece for Residency?
Greece provides strategic access to Europe, Asia, and Africa, a low cost of living, a booming real estate market, and a safe, politically stable environment. The pleasant climate and rich culture make it an excellent long-term choice for families and investors alike.
Popular Investment Locations
Athens offers strong property appreciation and business opportunities. Thessaloniki has high student rental demand, while Crete and Santorini are ideal for seasonal rentals and tourism-based returns.
Additional Perks of the Greece Golden Visa
No requirement to live full-time in Greece, visa-free travel across 26 Schengen countries, the option to start a business, and access to EU-level education and healthcare for the family.
Investment Breakdown Example
| Region | Minimum Investment | Property Size Requirement | Special Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attica (Athens) | €800,000 | 120m² | Capital growth and city convenience |
| Thessaloniki | €800,000 | 120m² | Student rental demand |
| Crete | €400,000 | 120m² | Tourism potential |
| Other Mainland Areas | €400,000 | 120m² | Affordable property options |
| Heritage/Conversion Projects | €250,000 | Variable | Lower entry cost |
Citizenship Opportunity
After 7 years of holding a valid residence permit and meeting the required residency and language conditions, investors can apply for Greek citizenship, unlocking full EU rights and mobility.
How to Apply for the Greece Golden Visa
- Consult with a licensed law firm or agent in Greece.
- Select and purchase your property meeting the minimum investment value.
- Submit your application and supporting documents through your lawyer.
- Provide biometrics in Greece.
- Receive your residence permit within months.
FAQs – Greece Golden Visa
1. What is the Greece Golden Visa?
It’s a residency-by-investment program allowing non-EU nationals to obtain Greek residency by investing in real estate or financial instruments.
2. How much do I need to invest?
You must invest at least €400,000 in most areas or €800,000 in prime zones like Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, or Santorini. Special cases allow entry from €250,000.
3. How long is the visa valid?
The visa is valid for 5 years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investment is maintained.
4. Can my family be included?
Yes. The program covers spouses, children under 21, and both parents of the main applicant and spouse.
5. Can I get Greek citizenship?
Yes. After 7 years of residency and meeting language and stay requirements, you can apply for Greek citizenship.
Conclusion
The Greece Golden Visa 2025 is one of Europe’s most appealing residency-by-investment options. It provides an affordable gateway to EU living, freedom of movement, and long-term financial opportunities. Whether you’re seeking a new home base, a smart investment, or a European lifestyle for your family, this program offers it all. Start your journey today and secure your place in Greece’s thriving future.
