🇬🇷 How to Apply for the Greek Golden Visa
Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Investing and Living in Greece
🪪 What Is the Greek Golden Visa?
The Greek Golden Visa is a residence-by-investment program that allows non-EU nationals to obtain a 5-year renewable residence permit by investing a minimum of €250,000 in Greek real estate.
✅ Step-by-Step Application Process
1️⃣ Choose Your Investment Option
Most applicants choose:
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💰 Real estate purchase of at least €250,000 (or €500,000 in prime areas like Athens, Thessaloniki, Santorini, or Mykonos).
Other options include:
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🏨 Timeshare lease agreements
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🏝️ Hotel or tourism business investments
💡 Tip: Engage a local lawyer early to ensure your investment qualifies.
2️⃣ Get a Greek Tax Number (AFM)
The AFM is mandatory for purchasing property and opening a Greek bank account. Your lawyer can help you obtain this with a power of attorney.
3️⃣ Open a Greek Bank Account
Necessary to transfer funds for the investment. Banks typically require:
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🛂 Valid passport
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🧾 Greek tax number
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🏠 Proof of address
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💵 Proof of income
4️⃣ Complete the Property Transaction
Sign the purchase contract and pay taxes:
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💸 Transfer tax (~3%)
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✍️ Notary and legal fees (~2–3%)
5️⃣ Submit Your Golden Visa Application
Apply through the Greek Immigration Office or your lawyer.
Required documents include:
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🪪 Passport and biometric data
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🏢 Proof of real estate purchase
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🏥 Health insurance
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🧹 Clean criminal record
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🖼️ Photographs and application forms
6️⃣ Receive Temporary Residence Certificate
Once submitted, you’ll get a blue certificate allowing you to legally reside in Greece until your permit is processed.
7️⃣ Obtain the Golden Visa Residence Permit
Upon approval, you receive a 5-year renewable residence permit. No minimum stay requirement applies to keep it valid.
👨👩👧 Family Inclusion
Your Golden Visa can cover:
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💍 Spouse or registered partner
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👶 Children under 21 years old
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👵 Parents of the applicant and spouse
🕒 Timeline Overview
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📄 Document preparation: 2–3 weeks
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🏘️ Property purchase and application: 1–2 months
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⏳ Permit processing: 1–3 months
📣 Take the Next Step with Borderless Lawyers
Navigating the Greek Golden Visa process can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone.
With Borderless Lawyers by your side, you gain a trusted partner who will:
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🔍 Provide expert advice tailored to your unique situation
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📝 Manage all paperwork and communication with authorities
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👥 Support you and your family through every step of the application
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⚡ Help you secure your residence permit efficiently and confidently
Your dream of living in beautiful Greece is within reach — don’t leave it to chance.
Reach out today and take the first step toward your new life in Greece with confidence and peace of mind.