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.