Immigration has always been a core element of the human story, driven by the pursuit of safety, prosperity, and a better quality of life. Today, structured programs like Greece’s Golden Visa provide a clear, reliable path for individuals seeking a new beginning in the European Union . For Americans in particular, the Greek program has emerged as one of the most attractive routes to residency and potential citizenship. Whether for a peaceful retirement, a fresh start, or a deeper connection with heritage, Greece offers a compelling mix of affordability, opportunity, quality of life and lifestyle. The Golden Visa has become more than just an investment tool—it’s a gateway to a new way of life.
Why are Americans choosing Greece?
Greece offers more than just beautiful landscapes and ancient ruins. For many Americans, it provides a viable answer to everyday frustrations back home:
- Cost of Living & Housing: Major U.S. cities are becoming unaffordable. Greece, in contrast, offers a more reasonable cost of living and a real estate market with room to grow.
- Retirement-Friendly Environment: With lower living costs and advantageous tax incentives, retirees find their pensions stretch much further in Greece.
- Healthcare: The U.S. healthcare system remains one of the most expensive in the world. Greece’s public and private healthcare services are both high-quality and significantly more accessible.
- Political & Social Climate: Increasing polarization in the U.S. has prompted many to seek a calmer, more cohesive environment.
- Cultural Curiosity: Greece’s Mediterranean rhythm, cultural richness, and warm hospitality attract those seeking more meaning in their everyday lives.
- Greek Heritage: Greek-Americans, in particular, are using the Golden Visa as a bridge to re-establish their connection with their ancestral homeland.
What Are the Golden Visa Investment Options?
Greece offers two main pathways to secure a Golden Visa: real estate investment and financial investment. The flexibility allows applicants to choose an option that aligns with their personal goals and financial strategy.
1. Real Estate Investment
The required investment amount depends on the location and type of property:
- €800,000 in high-demand areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and islands with more than 3,100 inhabitants.
- €400,000 in less dense regions like Volos and Mount Pelion in Central Greece, where opportunities are growing and competition is lower providing at the same time high quality of life.
- €250,000 for properties undergoing conversion or restoration, such as transforming commercial buildings into residential ones or reviving heritage-listed structures.
This flexibility makes Greece one of the most attractive destinations for real estate-based residency.
2. Capital Investment
For those not interested in property, alternative investment routes are also available:
- €500,000 in Greek government bonds or time deposits.
- €350,000 in units of mutual funds or Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).
For more detailed guidance, including legal requirements and recent updates, see our breakdown here: Greek Golden Visa – Investment in Securities or Through a Bank Deposit
What American Applicants Need to Know About the Greek Golden Visa
The Greek Golden Visa program offers U.S. citizens a straightforward and flexible route to European residency. Here’s everything you need to know about the process and the benefits of obtaining a Golden Visa in Greece.
Eligibility
U.S. citizens are fully eligible to apply for Greece’s Golden Visa. The application process has become increasingly accessible, even while being away from Greece. Thanks to the use of Power of Attorney, which can be issued through a Greek Consulate in the vicinity or a certified notary in the U.S., nearly 90% of the application steps can be completed remotely, making it convenient for applicants to begin their journey without having to travel to Greece.
Process Time
The typical processing time for most applications is up to 8 months. However, more complex cases may take up to a year. One of the greatest advantages of the Golden Visa is that it does not require the visa holder to reside in Greece full-time. This flexibility makes it an attractive option for those who want to maintain ties to their home country while having the opportunity to live and invest in Greece.
Greek Citizenship
For those looking to make a long-term commitment, the Greek Golden Visa can eventually lead to Greek citizenship. After 7 years of residency in Greece, with at least 183 days of physical presence per year, applicants can apply for citizenship, provided they meet the required language and integration criteria. This offers an exciting pathway for those interested in becoming full members of the Greek community.
Renting Property
One of the key benefits of the Golden Visa is the ability to rent out property. Owners can generate passive income by renting their real estate on long-term leases. However, it’s important to note that, starting in September 2024, short-term rentals (e.g., through platforms like Airbnb) are no longer permitted for new Golden Visa applicants/holders. This is an important consideration for those looking to manage their investment properties.
Family Members
Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of the Golden Visa program is its family-friendly nature. U.S. applicants can include spouses, children under 21 (or up to 24 if they are students), and even parents and in-laws in their application. This makes it an ideal solution for families seeking a new life and investment opportunities in Greece.
Tax Residency
It’s essential to understand that tax residency in Greece is not automatic. A person only becomes a tax resident if they spend more than 183 days per year in the country. This provides flexibility for individuals who wish to maintain a primary tax residency elsewhere while benefiting from the advantages of the Golden Visa.
Law Office Stathaki can help you apply for a Golden Visa investor’s residence permit and navigate this process with professional and to-the-point advice. Contact us today here.
