Greece

Greece is a distinguished Southern European destination defined by its sunlit coastlines, island landscapes, and timeless cultural heritage. Its identity reflects a refined blend of Mediterranean influences shaped by centuries of history. Well connected to Europe and beyond, it offers an exceptional setting for a second home and a relaxed, sophisticated lifestyle.

Greece, located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, is one of the world’s oldest civilizations, distinguished by its rich history and enduring cultural legacy. Widely regarded for its safety and relaxed pace of life, it offers a peaceful environment with a strong sense of heritage and stability.

Country Overview

Population
10.5 million

Language
Greek

Economy
Service- and industrial-based

Currency
Euro

About Greece — An Overview

Greece is one of the world’s oldest civilizations, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, strong international presence, and high quality of life. As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, and with the euro as its currency, it offers seamless access across Europe. Greek is the official language, while English is widely spoken, particularly in urban centers and key tourist regions.

The country combines a service-oriented economy with a strong tourism sector and growing investment activity. Known for its commitment to lifestyle and cultural preservation, Greece offers a unique balance of history, natural beauty, and modern living. With a population of approximately 10.5 million, it provides a refined Mediterranean lifestyle shaped by vibrant culture, renowned cuisine, and a mild climate. Greece has also established a structured residency-by-investment framework, allowing non-EU nationals to obtain residence permits through qualifying investments, with potential eligibility for citizenship after a defined period.

Santorini, Greece skyline with white buildings and blue domes overlooking the sea and mountainous coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Greece’s Golden Visa Program is a government-regulated residency-by-investment initiative that allows non-EU nationals to obtain residence permits through qualifying investments. It grants the right to reside in Greece and provides visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, offering a strategic combination of European access and lifestyle flexibility.
The program offers access to the European lifestyle with minimal physical presence requirements. Residents benefit from visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone, a high quality of life, and the ability to include family members under a single application. It is particularly attractive for those seeking flexibility without the obligation to relocate permanently.
The main route is real estate. Minimum amounts depend on location:
• €800,000 in Attica (including Athens), Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini and islands with more than 3,100 residents
• €400,000 in the rest of Greece
• €250,000 only for converting commercial buildings to residential use, or restoring listed buildings
Properties must be at least 120 m² and cannot be let as short-term rentals. The only lease-based option is a 10-year lease of hotel or tourist accommodation, at the same €400,000 or €800,000 levels; an ordinary residential lease does not qualify.
Processing timelines may vary depending on the investment route, documentation, and administrative procedures. In most cases, the permit is issued 6 to 9 months after the investment is completed and the application is submitted, and often 12 months or more in Attica.
Greece offers one of the most flexible residency frameworks in Europe, with no minimum stay requirement to maintain the residence permit. This allows applicants to retain their residency status without the need to physically reside in the country.
Yes, the program allows for family inclusion under a single application. Eligible dependents typically include a spouse, children, and in some cases dependent parents, enabling families to benefit collectively from residency rights and European access.

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