The Golden Visa is a Greek residency permit that is one of the most popular investment visa schemes in the EU. This visa is created as a residence-by-investment option, allowing non-EU citizens to seek residency in Greece through the purchase of real estate.
The programme has received widespread reputation in recent years due to its flexibility and numerous advantages. However, as of the most recent update, the minimum necessary investment has risen to €800,000 for individuals looking to invest in high-demand regions like Athens, Thessaloniki, Santorini, Mykonos and islands with a population of at least 3,100 residents. For all other regions of Greece, the minimum investment remains at €400,000.
One of the primary advantages of the Greek Golden Visa is that it opens the door to citizenship after seven years of presence in this country. This long-term advantage permits visa holders to become Greek citizens provided they satisfy the residency criteria. Furthermore, Golden Visa holders enjoy visa-free travel within Europe’s Schengen area, which comprises 26 European nations, making it an extremely appealing choice for anyone looking to travel freely across Europe.
Another significant advantage of the Greek Golden Visa programme is that there are no restrictions for becoming a Greek tax resident. This implies that investors can keep their primary tax domicile in another nation if they like. Furthermore, the programme lets you add family members, such as your husband, wife and children in the residency permit, making it an adaptable alternative for families wishing to migrate or establish a second residence in Europe.
When it comes to citizenship criteria, the Greek Golden Visa programme does not need applicants to complete any Greek language or history examinations, making it a more straightforward and accessible choice than other countries’ citizenship-by-investment schemes. However, if you intend to seek Greek citizenship, you must reside in Greece for seven years. Otherwise, there is no need to live in Greece to keep the residency permit.
Apart from real estate, candidates can invest in stocks, bonds and investment fund units. This flexibility enables investors to diversify their assets while maintaining residence in Greece. Those who acquire real estate might use it as a personal residence or as a successful investment asset that can provide rental income or increase in value over time.
If you want to move to a warm Mediterranean nation, live by the sea, or have better access to European countries, the Greek Golden Visa might be the best option for you. It provides a balanced lifestyle, investment opportunities as well as the possibility to travel around Europe.
The Greek real estate market has a distinct blend of cultural attraction, strategic location and high investment potential. It has emerged as a major investment destination, drawing record levels of foreign investment. But what makes Greece so enticing from a legal and investment perspective? Let’s look at the important characteristics that make Greece a standout investment.
Strategic Location and Market Accessibility
Greece, located at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, offers an excellent gateway to high-growth and rising markets in Southeast Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. As a member of the EU and the Eurozone, Greece has access to over 140 million consumers, making it an appealing location for businesses wishing to expand their reach.
Competitive Real Estate Prices
Due to a prolonged recession, Greek real estate remains accessible when compared to other European capitals. Athens, for example, provides relatively competitive cost per square meter without sacrificing quality. Investors can take advantage of the Greek Golden Visa Programme, which permits them to acquire property without geographical restrictions—a flexibility that is not often available in other EU nations. This legal advantage allows investors to select the property type and location that best meets their requirements.
Security & A Growing Economy
Greece’s economy is on a good development track, thanks to recent reforms, EU money and a stable political climate. Unemployment has fallen to its lowest level in almost a decade, as the rate is forecast to 9.36% in 2024 according to Statista. The Greek government intends to invest €60 billion over the next five years on digitalization, green transportation, education and infrastructure, improving the economy and generating new prospects for real estate development. For investors, this means a more predictable and advantageous business environment.Moreover, all the other places that could or in the past had competed with Greece is now in turbulence leaving Greece to be the only secure and hustle free location in the broader area.
Low Cost of Living and High Quality of Life
Greece has a great standard of living at lower costs than many other European countries, making it an attractive destination for expatriates, remote workers and pensioners. Living costs in Greece are approximately 30% cheaper than in other Western European countries. The advantageous living circumstances, along with an investor-friendly regulatory structure, make it an attractive setting for both personal and economic endeavors.
Tourism & Friendly Environment
Tourism is a pillar of the Greek economy, drawing high-spending visitors. Following COVID-19, the tourist sector has demonstrated extraordinary resiliency, with increased worldwide investment interest. The legal and regulatory climate in Greece encourages investment in tourism-related real estate, such as hotels, resorts and rental homes. In addition to tourism, Greece is developing into other areas such as renewable energy, technology and agriculture, generating new prospects for diverse investment. Furthermore, the Hospitality principle was invented by the ancient Greeks. The word “FILOXENIA” which translates to being friendly and hospitable to visitors is a part of the Hellenic DNA.
Agriculture: A Strong Contributor to Greece’s Economy
The Greek agriculture industry is important to the country’s economy, since it produces high-quality exports such as olive oil, dairy products and honey. Greece’s dedication to excellence in primary production has consolidated its position as a vital participant in the European export scene, opening up new investment opportunities in agriculture and real estate projects.
Greece’s unique combination of competitive real estate pricing, strategic location, developing economy and investor-friendly regulatory framework makes it a top choice for real estate investment.