Background

Greece’s Golden Visa Programme, introduced in 2013, remains one of Europe’s most established residency-by-investment schemes. Designed for third-country nationals, it offers long-term residence rights in exchange for qualifying investments, while maintaining a high degree of flexibility across multiple asset classes.

Eligibility Routes: Qualifying Investments

Applicants may qualify under two primary routes: the Real Estate Investment Route and the Alternative Investment Route.

The Real Estate Investment Route

Under this route, applicants must complete a qualifying real estate investment. The applicable thresholds now vary depending on location:

  • EUR 250,000 for properties located within designated specialised real estate investment zones.
  • EUR 800,000 for properties in Athens, Thessaloniki, or islands with a population exceeding 3,100 residents.
  • EUR 400,000 for properties in all other regions of Greece.

This tiered structure reflects increased demand in prime areas while preserving accessibility in emerging locations.

The Alternative Investment Route

For investors seeking diversification beyond property, Greece offers several financial and capital market options.

Long-Term Lease or Time-Share

Applicants may enter into a lease or time-share agreement subject to:

  • A minimum duration of 10 years.
  • The property qualifying as hotel accommodation or furnished tourist residences.
  • A minimum value of EUR 400,000 or EUR 800,000 depending on location.

Fixed-Term Deposit

A fixed-term deposit of at least EUR 500,000 in a Greek credit institution qualifies under this route, offering a lower-risk alternative to market-linked investments.

Greek Government Bonds

Applicants may opt to invest a minimum of EUR 500,000 in Greek government bonds, provided:

  • The bonds have a remaining maturity of at least three years.
  • The investment is executed through a Greek financial institution.

Corporate and Fund Investments

Eligible options include:

  • A minimum EUR 500,000 contribution to a Greek real estate investment company, investing solely in Greece;
  • Investment in closed-end funds or mutual funds established in Greece.
  • Capital contribution or bond subscription in Greek companies listed on local markets.

Listed Securities

Applicants may invest at least EUR 800,000 in shares or bonds listed on Greek exchanges, including government and corporate instruments.

Greek-Focused Investment Vehicles

A reduced threshold of EUR 350,000 applies for:

  • Mutual funds investing exclusively in Greek regulated markets.
  • EU-based alternative investment funds dedicated to Greece.

Tax Considerations

Greece offers two distinct tax regimes for Golden Visa Holders.

The Progressive Tax Regime

Applicants opting for standard taxation are subject to Greece’s progressive income tax rates on worldwide income, ranging from 9%-44% depending on income levels.

Flat Tax Regime (Non-Dom Regime)

Alternatively, individuals may elect a flat annual tax of EUR 100,000 on foreign-sourced income, regardless of amount. This can be extended to additional family members for EUR 20,000 per person annually.

Locally sourced income remains taxed under standard rates in both cases.

Validity and Renewal

Residence permits are initially granted for five years and are renewable for further periods of five (5) years, provided the qualifying investment is maintained.

Dependents

Greece’s Golden Visa Programme allows for the main applicant to include dependents in his application, including:

  • A married spouse;
  • Children under 21 years old;
  • Parents of the Main Applicant;
  • Parents for married spouse.

Key Benefits

Visa-Free Travel within Schengen

Successful applicants will be able to freely travel within the Schengen area for a period of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Potential to Apply for Citizenship

After seven (7) years of residence, applicants (and their family members) may become eligible to apply for citizenship in Greece, subject to demonstrating:

  • Genuine close connecting ties with Greece;
  • Successful integration into Greek society;
  • Adequate knowledge of the Greek language.

How zeta. Can Assist – Get in Touch

At zeta., we support clients in evaluating and structuring residency strategies aligned with their broader financial and lifestyle objectives. From selecting appropriate investment routes to coordinating the full application process, our approach ensures clarity, efficiency, and continuity at every stage.

For further information on Greece’s Golden Visa Programme or alternative residency solutions, please contact us at info@zeta-financial.com.

This note is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or other professional advice. It is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for specific advice tailored to your circumstances.

 While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of publication, no representation or warranty (express or implied) is given as to its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and zeta. accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this publication or its contents.

 Readers should not act, or refrain from acting, on the basis of this information without obtaining appropriate professional advice.