Islamabad, July 17, 2025: Greece has made big changes to its Golden Visa program this year. The government has increased the investment amounts needed for most property purchases, while still allowing limited options under the older, lower threshold.
The changes came into effect in September 2024, aiming to attract quality investments and preserve national heritage.
New Investment Rules
From 2025, the minimum investment of €250,000 is only available in special cases. These include restoring protected buildings or changing commercial properties into homes, no matter where they are located.
If an investor wants to buy property in a less populated area, they must now spend at least €400,000 on one property that’s at least 120 square meters. In busy cities like Athens and Thessaloniki or on popular islands, the required amount is now €800,000.
Other Investment Paths
People can also invest in other ways, such as:
- €500,000 or more in Greek government bonds
- €800,000 in shares or corporate bonds listed on Greek markets
- €350,000 in a Greek investment fund
READ MORE: UAE Eases Golden Visa Rules for Indians, Bangladeshis
Eligibility and Family Benefits
Applicants must:
- Be non-EU citizens,
- Be at least 18 years old,
- Hold a clean criminal record,
- Have valid health insurance.
The program allows family reunification, covering spouses, children under 21, and both sets of parents.
READ MORE: Hungary Reintroduces Golden Visa Program for European Residency
Path to Citizenship
The visa allows visa-free travel across the Schengen Area and grants a five-year renewable residence permit. After seven years of living in Greece and paying taxes, visa holders can apply for Greek citizenship. They must pass a Greek language test and show ties to Greek society.
Since the program began in 2013, over 31,000 people have received residence permits. Most applications have come from China, Turkey, Russia, Lebanon, and Egypt.
These 2024 changes aim to guide investments into areas where Greece wants to boost growth, while still keeping the program open for global interest.
