How to Obtain a Greek Golden Visa in 2025

Greece’s Golden Visa program has long been one of the most attractive residency-by-investment options in Europe. As of January 1, 2025, significant changes have been introduced, making it essential to stay updated if you’re considering this pathway to Greek residency.

In this updated guide, we’ll explore the new investment requirements, application process, and benefits of the program, along with tips for a smooth application.

What Is the Greek Golden Visa Program?

The Greek Golden Visa program offers non-EU nationals a residency permit in Greece in exchange for qualifying investments. This permit grants visa-free travel across the Schengen area, access to Greece’s healthcare and education systems, and the opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries.

New Investment Requirements for 2025

High-Demand Areas

• Minimum Investment: €800,000
• Regions: Includes Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with populations exceeding 3,100. Furthermore, an additional thirty-two islands have been included in the same list with an 800k investment requirement. However, for these islands, the minimum threshold is directly raised from 250k to 800k EUR. These islands include:
  • Crete
  • Euboea (Evia)
  • Rhodes
  • Corfu
  • Lesbos
  • Chios
  • Zakynthos (Zante)
  • Salamis (Salamina)
  • Kos
  • Kefalonia
  • Samos
  • Lefkada
  • Syros
  • Naxos
  • Kalymnos
  • Lemnos
  • Paros
  • Thassos
  • Aegina
  • Tinos
  • Ikaria
  • Andros
  • Leros
  • Karpathos
  • Skiathos
  • Milos
  • Skopelos
  • Spetses
  • Kythera
  • Patmos
  • Poros
  • Alonissos

Other Areas

• Minimum Investment: €400,000. This investment amount qualifies for the areas exempt from the high-demand regions mentioned above.

Alternative Investment Options

• €250,000 for a 10-year hotel lease agreement.
• €350,000 in a Greek Alternative Fund focused on immovable assets.
• €250,000 investment in innovative startups, supporting Greece’s growing tech sector. For more information, please read Greece’s Golden Visa 2025: Startup Investments Now Eligible.

These new thresholds and options ensure a balance between encouraging investments in high-demand regions and promoting opportunities in other parts of Greece.

Benefits of the Greek Golden Visa Program

• Duration: Residency permit valid for five years, with renewal options.
• Visa-Free Travel: Access to the entire Schengen area.
• Family Inclusion: Covers spouses, dependent children under 21, and dependent parents.
• Healthcare and Education: Enjoy Greece’s public services.
• Remote Application: The application process has been streamlined, allowing applicants to authorize representation through a Power of Attorney. However, applicants must be in Greece to attend their biometrical appointment before obtaining their Golden Visa.

Application Process

1. Select Your Investment: Choose from real estate, funds, or startup options, outlined in the first section of this article.
2. Documentation: Prepare required documents, including proof of investment, a valid passport, and insurance.
3. Legal Representation: Appoint a lawyer in Greece to handle the process.
4. Submit Application: Applications can now be submitted remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits.
5. Approval: Upon approval, you’ll receive your residency permit.

Why Choose the Greek Golden Visa?

Greece’s blend of history, culture, and modern amenities makes it a dream destination. Whether you’re looking to relocate, invest, or simply enjoy visa-free travel within Europe, the Greek Golden Visa program offers unparalleled benefits.

Tips for Success

• Work with Experts: Collaborate with experienced legal and financial advisors to ensure compliance with new legislative measures.
• Choose Investments Wisely: Focus on regions or options that align with your goals, budget, and preferences.
• Stay Informed: Keep track of any further updates to the program by browsing Greece's government website and subscribing to our newsletter.

Visualize Your Future in Greece

Imagine waking up to the breathtaking views of Athens or the serene beauty of Santorini. Whether it’s a luxury villa or a thriving startup, your investment in Greece isn’t just about residency—it’s about creating a new life.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the minimum investment for a Greek Golden Visa in 2025?

The minimum investment starts at €400,000 for areas outside high-demand regions and €800,000 for regions like Athens and Santorini.

2. Can I apply for the Greek Golden Visa remotely?

Yes, the process has been updated to allow for remote applications via a Power of Attorney.

3. Does the Greek Golden Visa cover family members?

Yes, it includes spouses, dependent children under 21, and dependent parents.

4. What is a biometrical appointment? 

A biometric appointment is a mandatory step in the Golden Visa application process where applicants provide their fingerprints and a photograph. This ensures secure identification and is required for issuing the residency permit. Applicants are typically notified of the appointment date after their initial application has been submitted and reviewed.

5. Can my property, once acquired via the Golden Visa program, be converted into an Airbnb?

Given that Greece has recently introduced laws restricting short-term rentals, such as Airbnb, properties under certain requiements can no longer be listed as rentals online. These changes aim to reduce rent hikes and increase long-term housing availability.

Why Choose My Greek Expat Journey?

At My Greek Expat Journey, we assist expats from around the world in obtaining their residency permits and handling other administrative tasks. With a trusted network of top-rated accountants and lawyers, we ensure a smooth process free from scams. Our transparent communication, up-front fees, and quick responses make relocating to Greece stress-free.

If you’re ready to begin your journey or need further clarification , schedule a free discovery call with us here. Let us handle the details while you focus on enjoying your new life in Greece.