The investment method in Greece's Golden Visa program is real estate purchase, and this method is regulated within the framework of a policy aimed at making a direct contribution to the Greek economy. As of 2024, the minimum investment requirement for the program has been increased in some regions. High real estate prices in popular tourist and commercial areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini have raised the investment base in these areas. Therefore, foreign investors wishing to obtain a residence permit in these locations must make a real estate investment of at least €800,000.
As of September 1, conversion projects offered by construction companies in Athens are also included within the €250,000 threshold. The minimum investment amount of €250,000 is one of the lowest among European Union member states, and this is one of the factors that makes the Greek Golden Visa program attractive worldwide. Many investors, particularly from Turkey, China, Russia, and Middle Eastern countries, are taking advantage of this low investment threshold to purchase real estate in Greece.
Investors can purchase a single property or multiple properties to reach the specified total investment amount. These properties can be residential, commercial, or tourist-oriented. For example, investors can purchase an apartment in Athens, while also buying a tourist villa or hotel in Mykonos. Furthermore, purchasing real estate that can be rented out not only grants investors the right to a residence permit but also offers the opportunity to earn additional income.
There are alternative ways to participate in the Greece Golden Visa program besides purchasing real estate. It is also possible to benefit from this visa by establishing a business in Greece or investing in an existing business. Such investments are concentrated in sectors such as trade, tourism, energy, and innovative technology. Greece's geographical location and its membership in the European Union provide an ideal environment for such business investments.
Additionally, investing in local investment funds or capital markets is another alternative route. Options such as participating in investment funds approved by the Greek government or investing in government bonds are considered more liquid and flexible investment instruments. Such investments are an attractive alternative, particularly for investors who do not wish to invest in real estate but want to obtain a residence permit in Greece.
