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Golden Visa Greece: Yes, You Can Still Invest at €250,000 in Prime Areas – Here’s How

Writer: Kyveli ZahouKyveli Zahou

When news broke about changes to the Greece Golden Visa investment thresholds, many prospective investors were left wondering:


“Is it still possible to secure residency with a €250,000 investment?”


The answer is yes. While the minimum real estate investment has increased to €400,000 or even €800,000 in certain areas, converted commercial properties in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete still qualify for the original €250,000 threshold. This means that with the right guidance, you can still obtain the Golden Visa Greece at the lowest entry point while investing in prime locations.


 

What Changed in the Greek Golden Visa Program?

To balance market demand, the Greek government introduced a tiered investment system for real estate:

  • €250,000 – Still available for converted commercial properties and heritage restorations, even in premium areas like Athens and Thessaloniki.

  • €400,000–€800,000 – Applies to any other type of residences across Greece.

This means investors now have more choices, from affordable converted properties to high-end investments, all under the Golden Visa Greece program.


Why Did the Greek Government Increase the Investment Threshold?

The real estate market in Greece, particularly in high-demand areas like Athens and Thessaloniki, has seen significant growth in recent years. The Greek government raised the threshold to:

  • Control property speculation – With increasing demand from foreign investors, the market needed regulation to avoid excessive price hikes.

  • Encourage investment in alternative sectors – The changes push investors toward converted properties, startups, and government bonds.

  • Align with European trends – Countries like Portugal and Spain have already restricted or eliminated their real estate-based Golden Visa programs. Greece, however, has kept the option open but with price adjustments.


📌 What’s next? While these new thresholds are in place, future changes are always possible. Investors who qualify at €250,000 should act sooner rather than later to secure their residency before additional revisions occur.

 

Greece Golden Visa Properties – Examples at €250,000

At Expat Law we work with trusted partners, real estate offices, and experienced developers to bring our clients the best investment opportunities. Through these collaborations, we provide access to fully renovated, move-in-ready properties that qualify for the Golden Visa Greece.

Here are some examples of properties currently available:


Renovated Apartment in Peristeri – €250,000

Located just 450m from the metro station, this brand-new, fully equipped 56 m² apartment is part of a luxury redevelopment project in Peristeri—one of Athens’ most vibrant and in-demand neighborhoods. Featuring a spacious open-plan living area, a large private 36 m² terrace, and a dedicated storage space, this 2nd-floor residence is designed with minimal aesthetics and high-end finishes.




Spacious Maisonette in Peristeri – €290,000

For those looking for more space, this 97 m² maisonette offers two bedrooms, a private garden, and luxury finishes. Renovated in 2024, it includes two bathrooms, an internal staircase, a security system, and solar water heating.



📌 Both properties demonstrate that you can still secure the Greece Golden Visa around the €250,000 threshold in sought-after locations, even as market conditions evolve.


Both Peristeri apartments offer strong rental income potential, and a rental yield of 3-5%, making them excellent investment choices for Golden Visa Greece applicants.


Note: Availability is subject to change. 🔗 Contact us for the latest listings that qualify for the Greece Golden Visa!

 

Who Should Apply for the Greece Golden Visa?

The Greece Golden Visa program is one of the most flexible residency-by-investment programs in Europe, making it suitable for various types of investors:

Retirees

  • Enjoy Mediterranean weather, and relatively low living costs.

  • No requirement to stay in Greece full-time.

Business Investors

  • Get visa-free access to the Schengen Zone for business travel.

  • Use Greece as a strategic base for EU operations.

Families Seeking EU Residency

  • Spouses, children under 21, and parents can be included.

  • Access to top international schools and healthcare in Greece.

 

Alternative Investment Routes for the Residency by Investment

Beyond real estate, there are other ways to qualify for the Greece Golden Visa with a €250,000 investment:

1️⃣ Government Bonds

  • Invest at least €500,000 in Greek government bonds.

  • Provides a stable, low-risk investment option.

2️⃣ Startup Investments

  • Invest in a Greek startup approved by the government.

  • Ideal for those interested in tech, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

3️⃣ Mutual Funds or Capital Contributions

  • Invest €250,000+ in Greek-based investment funds.

  • Diversifies your portfolio while securing Golden Visa residency.

4️⃣ Long-Term Leases in Tourist Properties

  • Secure a 5-year lease in a hotel or furnished residence.

  • Qualifies as a Golden Visa investment without the need for ownership.


These options make the Greece Golden Visa program one of the most flexible in Europe.


 

Investment Opportunities Across the Golden Visa Greece Spectrum (€250,000–€800,000)

Whether you’re looking for an affordable residence or a luxury estate, the Greece Golden Visa program offers investment opportunities at multiple levels:

  • €250,000: Entry-level converted apartments and heritage properties, anywhere in Greece.

  • €400,000: Mid-tier investments in suburban or lower-demand areas.

  • €800,000: Real estate in prime locations like Athens, Crete, Thessaloniki or Santorini.


Why Choose the Greece Golden Visa?

Greece remains one of Europe’s top residency-by-investment destinations thanks to:

  • Lowest Investment Threshold: Starting at just €250,000, it remains one of the most affordable options.

  • Schengen Zone Access:  Enjoy visa-free travel across Europe for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This allows you to move freely within 26 Schengen countries without additional visas.See the full list of Schengen countries and travel benefits here.

  • Family Inclusion: Spouses, children under 21, and parents can be added to your application.

  • Minimal Residency Requirement: No need to live in Greece to maintain or renew your visa.


 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Greece Golden Visa


1. Can I still get the Greece Golden Visa for €250,000?

Yes! Although the minimum investment has increased to €400,000–€800,000 in many areas, converted commercial properties in Athens, Thessaloniki, and all over Greece, still qualify for the original €250,000 threshold.


2. What are the benefits of the Greece Golden Visa?

  • Residency in Greece with no requirement to live there full-time.

  • Visa-free travel across 26 Schengen Zone countries.

  • Investment flexibility: Choose from real estate, government bonds, or startup investments.

  • Family eligibility: Include your spouse, children under 21, and parents.


3. Can I rent out my property for income?

Absolutely. Investors often rent their properties for €600–€900/month in Peristeri, for example, generating a 3%–4% annual rental yield.


4. How long does it take to get the Greece Golden Visa?

The approval process typically takes 3–6 months after submitting your investment documents.


5. Can I get Greek citizenship through the Golden Visa?

Yes, but you must live in Greece for at least 7 years, demonstrate ties to the country, and pass a language and cultural test.


6. Are there other investment options besides real estate?

Yes! You can also qualify by investing €500,000 in government bonds, €250,000 in Greek startups, or €250,000+ in mutual funds.


7. Will the Greece Golden Visa program change again?

It’s possible. Many countries (like Portugal and Spain) have tightened or eliminated their Golden Visa programs. Greece still offers it, but acting now locks in current investment thresholds.


 

How ExpatLaw.gr Can Help You Secure Your Golden Visa Greece

At Expat Law, we specialize in helping investors navigate the Greek Golden Visa process seamlessly:

  1. Property Selection: Through our network of trusted developers and real estate offices, we help you find properties that qualify under the program.

  2. Legal Expertise: Our team handles all paperwork and ensures compliance with Greek immigration laws.

  3. Tailored Investment Solutions: Whether you’re investing in real estate or exploring alternative options, we provide personalized support every step of the way.


Start Your Golden Visa Greece Journey Today

The Golden Visa Greece remains one of the best residency-by-investment programs in Europe. With investment opportunities from €250,000 to €800,000, there’s a perfect option for every investor.


With decades of expertise in immigration and real estate law, we’ll guide you through every aspect of the Golden Visa process. Email us at kyveli@expatlaw.gr or call/text +306945551914 for personalized advice. Let us make your journey to Greek residency seamless and stress-free!


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