Over the last decade, Greece’s Golden Visa Program has become one of Europe’s most successful residency-by-investment schemes — combining access to the EU, attractive real estate opportunities, and an enviable Mediterranean lifestyle.
As of 2025, the program has been updated with new regional thresholds and clearer regulations, reflecting both Greece’s economic momentum and the rising demand from international investors.
For non-EU citizens, it remains one of Europe’s most secure, flexible, and rewarding residency options — blending lifestyle and long-term investment value.
1. What Is the Greek Golden Visa?
The Greek Golden Visa grants a renewable five-year residence permit to non-EU citizens who invest in property or other eligible assets in Greece.
It offers visa-free access to the Schengen Zone and, over time, a pathway to permanent residency or even citizenship.
Since its launch in 2013, the program has attracted thousands of investors from around the world, generating over €3 billion in property-related investment and fueling local development across the country.
2. Updated Investment Requirements (Effective 2024–2025)
The Greek government revised the Golden Visa minimum investment amounts in 2024, creating two primary tiers based on the property’s location and type.
Tier 1 – €800,000 Minimum Investment
Applies to:
- The Region of Attica (including Athens)
- The Regional Units of Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini
- All islands with a population of more than 3,100 residents
Tier 2 – €400,000 Minimum Investment
Applies to:
- All other areas of Greece, including large parts of the mainland (Peloponnese, Epirus, Thessaly, Halkidiki, etc.)
- Smaller islands and inland towns with lower population density
Important conditions:
- The investment must be in a single property (not multiple smaller ones combined).
- The property must be at least 120 m² in size.
- Investors may also qualify by purchasing new developments or off-plan projects that meet the above thresholds.
Keystone Insight:
While the minimum thresholds have increased, so has the market’s stability and long-term value.
Areas like Crete, Paros, and the Peloponnese (under the €400,000 tier) remain highly attractive — combining affordability with strong appreciation potential.
3. Who Can Apply
The Golden Visa is available to non-EU and non-EEA citizens, and it extends to:
- The investor’s spouse or registered partner
- Children under 21 years old (renewable until 24 if dependent)
- Parents of both the main applicant and spouse
Residency permits are valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely, provided the investment is maintained.
4. Key Benefits of the Greek Golden Visa
Freedom Across Europe
Visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Zone (26+ European countries).
Residency Without Living Requirements
No obligation to reside permanently in Greece — perfect for global investors who wish to keep flexibility.
Strong Real Estate Returns
The Greek property market continues to perform impressively, with 7–10% annual growth in many regions and robust rental yields from tourism.
A Lifestyle Investment
Beyond numbers, the Golden Visa offers access to Greece’s world-famous lifestyle — safety, climate, gastronomy, and cultural depth.
Family Security and Education
Residency provides access to European education, healthcare, and a stable family environment.
5. The Application Process — Step by Step
Applying for the Golden Visa in Greece is straightforward, particularly with professional guidance from Keystone Properties.
- Select an Eligible Property
Work with Keystone to identify investment-grade real estate that complies fully with the program requirements. - Legal Due Diligence
Your lawyer verifies title deeds, ownership, zoning, and building legality before purchase. - Purchase & Registration
Complete the transaction via bank transfer and register the property in your name at the Land Registry. - Prepare Documentation
Gather the required documents (passport, proof of funds, purchase agreement, etc.) for submission. - Submit Application & Biometrics
Your application is filed at the local immigration office; residency cards are typically issued within 2–3 months. - Receive Your Golden Visa
You and your family can now travel freely within the Schengen Zone and enjoy all Greek residency rights.
6. Why 2025 Is the Perfect Time to Apply
Even with the new thresholds, Greece’s Golden Visa remains one of the most cost-effective programs in Europe — far below those of Portugal, Spain, or Malta.
Key reasons why investors continue to act now:
- Property appreciation: Market growth is outpacing most European peers.
- Future-proof investment: Real estate remains the most stable asset class amid global uncertainty.
- EU access with flexibility: No minimum stay requirement.
- Lifestyle diversification: Secure a home in one of Europe’s safest, sunniest, and most beautiful countries.
Keystone Insight:
The next 12–18 months present a strategic window. As Greece’s market matures, early investors in the €400,000 regions will likely see the strongest long-term capital gains.
7. Why Choose Keystone Properties
At Keystone Properties, we understand that the Golden Visa is more than paperwork — it’s a milestone.
Our approach combines:
- Expert property sourcing tailored to visa compliance and investment goals
- Coordination with top-tier legal and tax professionals
- Transparent support from initial consultation to visa issuance
We represent an exclusive portfolio of properties across Greece that not only meet residency requirements but also reflect the lifestyle and investment value that define modern Greece.
Final Thoughts: A Pathway to Freedom and Opportunity
The Greek Golden Visa 2025 continues to stand out as one of the most balanced, secure, and rewarding residency programs in Europe.
It blends access to the EU, ownership in a thriving property market, and a way of life defined by sunlight, sea, and stability.
For investors seeking more than a passport — those looking for a place to belong, grow, and thrive — Greece offers a gateway like no other.
And with Keystone Properties as your trusted guide, that journey begins with confidence.