Greece Golden Visa: Residency by Investment Program

The Greece Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that enables non-EU nationals and their families to secure legal residency in Greece through qualifying investments.

Introduced in 2013, it has quickly become one of Europe’s most sought-after programs due to its affordability, wide range of investment options, and minimal residency requirements. Investors can choose between real estate purchases, company shares, government bonds, or other financial instruments, with thresholds starting from €250,000 in select categories and €400,000 in most regions.

Approved applicants receive a renewable five-year residence permit, granting the right to live, work, and study in Greece, along with visa-free travel throughout the 26 Schengen countries. The program also allows for family inclusion, covering spouses, dependent children up to 21, and even parents.

After seven years of continuous tax residency, investors become eligible to apply for Greek citizenship and an EU passport, unlocking full rights across the European Union.

With its strategic location, Mediterranean lifestyle, strong real estate market, and favorable tax regimes, the Greece Golden Visa stands as one of the most competitive and flexible pathways to European residency and long-term security.

The Greece Golden Visa appeals to a wide range of global investors and families who want flexibility, security, and access to the European Union. It is an excellent fit for property investors seeking strong appreciation and rental yields in one of Europe’s best-value real estate markets. Families find it especially attractive as the program covers spouses, children, and even parents, giving everyone access to world-class healthcare and education. Retirees are drawn to Greece’s Mediterranean lifestyle, supported by favorable tax regimes such as the 7% flat tax option on foreign income.

Entrepreneurs and business owners benefit from Greece’s position as a gateway to European markets, offering a strategic base for expansion and mobility across the EU. Frequent travelers value the Schengen residency rights that allow seamless movement throughout Europe, while forward-thinking individuals view the program as a reliable contingency plan, a secure “Plan B” in an EU member state that combines political stability with long-term opportunity.

Greece offers one of Europe’s most attractive non-dom tax regimes for new residents, designed specifically to appeal to high-net-worth individuals.

• Flat 7% Tax Rate: Participants pay just 7% annually on all foreign-sourced income for up to 15 years, regardless of amount.
• Investment Requirement: To qualify, you must invest at least €500,000 in real estate, securities, or shares of Greek entities.
• Ideal For: Retirees, global entrepreneurs, and investors with significant foreign income seeking a low-tax European base.

This regime allows investors to structure their wealth efficiently, protect global assets, and enjoy all the benefits of Greek residency while significantly reducing tax exposure.

To qualify for Greece’s Residency by Investment Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a valid passport from a non-EU/EEA country.
• Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
• Make a qualifying investment in Greece (such as real estate, company shares, or government-approved options).
• Maintain a clean criminal record from both Greece and your country of residence.
• Provide proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself and your family without relying on Greek public assistance.
• Hold comprehensive health insurance coverage valid in Greece for all included family members.
• Family inclusion is permitted, covering your spouse, dependent children under 21, and parents of either the main applicant or the spouse.

Greece Residency by Investment Program Document Checklist

A successful Golden Visa application requires the following documents:

• Two copies of the application form – fully completed and signed.
• Four recent passport-size color photos – meeting biometric standards.
• Certified copy of a valid passport or recognized travel document – must be valid for at least six months beyond the application date.
• Application fee – approximately €500 (for residence permits of up to five years), payable via the official e-Paravolo platform.
• Processing fee – approximately €16, covering the issuance of the electronic residence permit.
• Proof of medical and hospitalization insurance – must cover the applicant in Greece:
  • Policies signed outside Greece are accepted if they explicitly state coverage for the applicant’s stay in Greece.
  • Policies signed in Greece are also accepted.

Note: In some cases, Greek authorities may request additional documentation to support your application.

What NTL Trust Handles for You

Applying for residency in Greece can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we step in. With our licensed advisors and on-the-ground partners, NTL Trust takes care of the details so you don’t have to:

• Personalized Consultation – We help you choose the right investment option, explain the timeline, and answer all your questions.
• Document Preparation & Review – From gathering certified copies to arranging translations and apostilles, we make sure everything is accurate and compliant.
• Application Submission – Our team files your application directly with the competent authorities, ensuring efficiency and avoiding costly mistakes.
• Insurance & Local Compliance – We arrange approved health insurance coverage and ensure all local requirements are met.
• Follow-ups & Renewals – Whether it’s renewing your five-year permit or advising on the pathway to citizenship, we manage every step.
• Family Integration – We coordinate applications for your spouse and dependents so your whole family enjoys the benefits together.

With NTL Trust by your side, the process is streamlined, stress-free, and built for long-term success.

Obtaining Greek citizenship through naturalization is the ultimate goal for many Golden Visa holders. While the program begins with a renewable 5-year residence permit, successful applicants who establish long-term ties to Greece may progress to permanent residence and, eventually, full Greek and EU citizenship.

Key Pathway:

– Hold temporary residence for 5 years → renew as needed.
– Maintain 7 years of continuous tax residency in Greece → apply for citizenship by naturalization.
– Dual citizenship permitted under Greek law.

Requirements for Naturalization:

• Valid residence permit maintained for at least 7 consecutive years.
• Continuous legal stay in Greece, registered as a tax resident.
• Demonstrated integration into Greek society (language, culture, and civic life).
• Greek language exam at B1 level (intermediate).
• Knowledge of Greek history, culture, and institutions.
• Clean criminal record and compliance with Greek laws.

Benefits of Greek Citizenship:

• Greek passport with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 185+ destinations, including the EU Schengen Area, UK, USA, and Canada.
• Full rights to live, work, and study in all 27 EU member states.
• Secure lifelong status with no need for renewals.
• Ability to pass citizenship to future generations.
• Belonging to a dynamic EU economy with a Mediterranean lifestyle, strong healthcare, and education system.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. While NTL Trust strives to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, laws and regulations regarding immigration, residency, and taxation are subject to change without notice and may vary by individual circumstances.

NTL Trust is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation. All residency and investment services are conducted in compliance with applicable Greek laws and in coordination with licensed local professionals and government-authorized partners.

Residency approval is at the discretion of the Greek immigration authorities and cannot be guaranteed. Applicants are solely responsible for ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the documents submitted as part of their application.

We recommend that prospective applicants seek independent legal and financial advice tailored to their individual situation before making any decisions regarding immigration, investment, or relocation.

NTL Trust disclaims any liability for actions taken based on the information provided herein.