Greece Residency by Investment Program

Greece Residency by Investment Program

Greece’s Residency by Investment Program was launched in 2013 as a means to recover the country’s economy post-financial crisis of 2008. The program is geared toward high net worth individuals who would like to invest in real estate in Greece in return for Greek permanent residency.

Eligibility Requirements

• The applicant must be a non-EU national.
• The applicant must be over 18 years.
• The applicant must have legally entered Greece, or reside in Greece, with any type of visa.
• The applicant must invest a minimum of EUR 250,000 in real estate.
• The applicant must have ownership and possession of this real estate for the duration of the residency.

Program Benefits

• 5-year residency obtained, renewable indefinitely.
• Family members that can be included in a single application: Spouse, children up to 21 years of age, parents of the applicant or spouse.
• Visa-free travel throughout Schengen zone.
• No requirement to physically reside in Greece.
• Residents can live, work, and study anywhere in Greece.
• Can apply for citizenship after seven (7) years of residency.
• Cheapest residency through real estate investment option in Europe.
• Application processing for residency within 2 - 6 months.

Real Estate Investment Options*

1. Make a minimum investment of EUR 250,000 in a residential real estate property, OR;
2. Sign a lease for a minimum of 10 years in hotel accommodation or other furnished tourist residences. The contract must require a single payment for the lease, with minimum investment of EUR 250,000, OR;
3. Sign a timeshare agreement with minimum investment of EUR 250,000.

*Note that investments must be held for the duration of residency. Resale of the property to another non-EU national, allows the new buyer to apply for residency while vendor’s residency is withdrawn.


Greece Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to live in Greece in order to maintain my residency status?
No, there is no requirement to live in Greece. As long as the required property investment is held, you and your family can live abroad while maintaining Greek residency.

2. Can I rent out my property?
Yes, property owners through this program are granted the possibility of leasing their real estate.

3. When can I resell my property?
Since property must be held for the duration of your residency, if you choose to sell your property, your residency will be revoked. For those who wish to forfeit their residency, property can be sold at any time.  
 
For more information, please fill out our Free Assessment and find out if you qualify.