Golden Visa investment programs have taken the world by storm. Designed to attract foreign capital in exchange for residency rights, these programs offer high-net-worth individuals a chance to gain residency — and sometimes citizenship — in attractive global destinations. But here’s the catch: not all Golden Visa schemes are created equal.
Whether it’s the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast or thriving urban centers in the EU, each country puts forth its own golden carrot, from real estate to capital investment. Greece, in particular, shines brightly with its strategic location, affordable investment thresholds, and investor-friendly policies.
So, before you sign on the dotted line, there are key insights every savvy investor must know — and this is where Solena offering specialized support, legal guidance, and end-to-end consultancy with a special focus on the Greek Golden Visa. Let’s unpack everything you need to navigate this rewarding journey.
Golden Visa Investment: What It Really Means
The term “Golden Visa” refers to government programs that offer residency rights to foreign investors who make qualifying investments in the host country. This often includes real estate purchases, capital transfers, or support for national development projects.
For investors, it’s a strategic gateway to secure mobility, diversify portfolios, protect assets, and in some cases, gain access to healthcare, education, and lifestyle benefits reserved for residents or citizens. While the upfront capital requirements may seem daunting, the long-term value — both personal and financial — is immense.
Why Choose the Greek Golden Visa?
Greece’s Golden Visa program is praised for its:
- Low real estate investment minimums
- Quick processing compared to other countries
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone
- Family inclusion with a single investment
- Stable real estate market with tourism demand
Whether you want a beachside villa or a commercial property in Athens, the Greek program offers diversity and still the lowest investment minimums.
Investment Options Under the Greek Golden Visa
As of 2024, Greece has significantly restructured its Golden Visa program to reflect regional demand and support sustainable development. The real estate investment thresholds now vary based on property location and type, categorizing investments into three distinct tiers.
€800,000 Minimum Investment
This highest tier applies to properties in high-demand urban and tourist areas, including:
- Attica (Athens and suburbs)
- Thessaloniki
- Mykonos, Santorini, and
- Other Greek islands with populations exceeding 3,100 residents
To qualify:
- The property must be purchased as a single unit
- It must be at least 120 square meters in size
- The total investment must meet or exceed €800,000
€400,000 Minimum Investment
This category applies to all other regions of Greece outside the designated high-demand zones.
To qualify:
- The investor must purchase a single property
- The property must be at least 120 square meters
- The total value must be at least €400,000
€250,000 Minimum Investment (Special Projects Only)
This lower threshold applies to specific conversion or restoration projects, designed to support preservation and urban regeneration.
- Conversion of Commercial Property to Residential Use
- The building must not have been in use for the past five years
- A residential license must have been issued after April 1, 2024
- Properties converted under licenses issued before this date are not eligible
- The conversion must be fully completed before applying
- Restoration of Listed Buildings
- The property must be officially designated as historically or culturally significant
- Restoration must be completed within five years of visa approval
- The property cannot be sold until the full restoration is finalized
General Requirements for All Investment Categories
- Ownership
- The property must be owned directly by the applicant
- If acquired through a legal entity, the applicant must own 100% of the company shares
- Renewal
- The residency permit is renewable every five years
- The property must be retained to maintain eligibility
Navigating the Golden Visa Process in Greece
From start to finish, the process usually follows these steps:
- Select investment type
- Reserve your property or capital vehicle
- Open a Greek bank account
- Obtain a tax number (AFM)
- Finalize the purchase or transfer
- Submit application via legal representative
- Biometrics appointment
- Receive residency permit
A seamless process — when executed right. Without guidance, delays are common. Solena, speeds this up through its legal and logistical network.
Family Inclusion and Long-Term Residency
The Greek Golden Visa includes:
- Spouse or registered partner
- Children up to age 21
- Parents of both main applicant and spouse
Why Work with Solena?
Solena, is not just a consultancy firm. With over a decade of experience and hundreds of successful cases, their expertise stands out in:
These recent updates add layers of complexity to an already intricate legal landscape. From zoning validation to license verification and compliance tracking, the expertise of Solena becomes more critical than ever. Their team ensures:
- Eligibility checks based on the latest law
- Proper property selection in qualifying regions
- Legal review of restoration and conversion permits
- Compliance monitoring for timely residency renewal
Golden Visa Investment: Your Strategic Asset
At the end of the day, a Golden Visa is more than a piece of paper. It’s your ticket to global mobility, financial security, and peace of mind. And with the right advisors, it’s also a streamlined, stress-free journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum investment for the Greek Golden Visa?
Depending on location and property type, the minimum ranges from €250,000 to €800,000, with €250,000 valid only for approved conversion or restoration projects.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, including spouse, children under 21, and both sets of parents.
Do I need to live in Greece to keep my residency?
No, there is no minimum stay requirement.
Can I rent out the property I purchase?
Absolutely. Many investors generate rental income via Airbnb or long-term leases.
How long does the process usually take?
2–6 months from property reservation to residency card issuance.
Conclusion
Golden Visa investment is a compelling way to unlock global freedom, diversify your portfolio, and secure a better life for your family. But choosing the right program — and the right guidance — makes all the difference.
With Solena by your side, you gain more than a residency permit — you gain a strategic partner who handles every legal, financial, and bureaucratic nuance with care and confidence.
Get expert guidance → Contact us for a tailored consultation
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