The Greece Golden Visa programme offers non-EU individuals a way to obtain residency in Greece through eligible investments. Introduced in 2013, this Greece residency by investment scheme allows applicants to get a five-year renewable residence permit and live in the country.
To apply, individuals must meet certain Greece Golden Visa requirements, such as making a qualifying investment and submitting the necessary documents.
This blog covers what a non-EU applicant should know about the Greece Golden Visa scheme, including its benefits, requirements, and process.
What is the Greece Golden Visa Programme?
The Greece Golden Visa programme allows non-EU individuals to obtain a five-year renewable residence permit by making a qualifying investment in Greece. It also allows investors and their families to live in the country without a minimum stay requirement and travel visa-free within the Schengen Area.
What are the Benefits of the Greece Golden Visa?
One of the main Greece Golden Visa benefits is the five-year renewable residency. Other advantages include:
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area
- Option to include eligible family members
- No minimum stay requirement
- Access to healthcare and education in Greece
List of Essential Requirements for Greece Golden Visa Scheme
To apply under the Greece Golden Visa scheme, applicants must meet the following:
- Qualifying investment: Make an approved investment as per programme rules
- Valid passport: Required for identity verification and processing
- Clean criminal record: Proof may be required
- Health insurance coverage: Mandatory for all applicants
- Supporting documents: Additional documents based on the investment type
What are the Investment Options for the Greek Golden Visa Programme?
Under the Golden Visa for Greece, common investment options include:
- Buying residential or commercial real estate
- Investing in approved funds
- Financial investments such as bank deposits or bonds
The investment must meet the minimum threshold and comply with the latest Greece Golden Visa new rules, which vary based on location and asset type (in some high-demand areas, the minimum investment is higher than €250,000).
How to Apply for Greece Residency by Investment?
Also referred to as the Greece citizenship by investment, this programme offers residency, not direct citizenship.
Here is how the application process works:
- Choose a qualifying investment under the Greece Golden visa programme
- Work with a legal expert to obtain a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM), complete due diligence, and finalise the investment
- Prepare and submit the required documents to the authorities
- Provide biometric data after initial approval
- Receive the five-year residence permit once approved
The Greece Golden Visa process usually takes around 6 to 9 months after completing the investment and submitting all required documents.
What is the Insurance Criteria Under the Greece Golden Visa Scheme?
Applicants must have valid health insurance that covers medical expenses for themselves and their dependent family members during their stay in Greece.
For short visits or travel before residency, individuals can also consider travel insurance for Greece. This may cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, flight delays, and baggage-related issues.
In many cases, travellers may require Schengen travel insurance for entry into Schengen countries, including Greece.
Conclusion
The Greece Golden Visa programme offers a clear path to residency through investment. Understanding the visa requirements, investment options, and process can help you make better decisions.
With recent updates under the Greece Golden Visa new rules, it is important to review the latest thresholds and conditions before applying. A well-planned approach can help avoid delays and make the process smoother. Additionally, securing travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind during your relocation and initial stay in Greece.
FAQs
1. What is the minimum investment required to get the Greece Golden Visa?
The minimum investment starts from €250,000 in some categories. However, under the Greece Golden Visa new rules, it can go up to €500,000 or more in high-demand areas.
2. Can family members be included in the Greece Residency by Investment?
Yes, the Greece residency by investment programme allows eligible family members, such as spouses and children, to be included.
3. How long can I stay in Greece under the Golden Visa?
You can stay in Greece as long as your residence permit remains valid and the investment conditions are maintained.
4. What is Schengen travel insurance?
Schengen travel insurance is a short-term policy that covers medical emergencies and travel-related risks while visiting Schengen countries, including Greece.
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