Exploring Residency and Citizenship in Greece – Golden Visa and Long-Term Options

By Dr. Pooyan Ghamari, Swiss Economist

Greece offers attractive pathways for residency and eventual citizenship, particularly through the Golden Visa program and long-term residency options tailored for non-EU citizens. This guide provides a detailed exploration of these options, helping you understand the processes, benefits, and legal requirements.

Understanding the Greek Golden Visa

The Greek Golden Visa program has emerged as a popular choice for non-EU investors seeking residency in Europe. It’s particularly attractive due to its relatively low investment threshold and the extensive benefits it offers.

• Investment Requirements: To obtain a Greek Golden Visa, you must invest a minimum of €250,000 in real estate. This investment can be spread across multiple properties, and the low entry point makes it one of the most accessible Golden Visa programs in Europe.
• Visa Benefits: The Golden Visa grants you and your family (spouse and dependent children) five-year residency rights in Greece, which are renewable indefinitely as long as you maintain the investment. The visa also allows for unrestricted travel within the Schengen Zone, making it highly valuable for those who travel frequently within Europe.
• Pathway to Citizenship: After seven years of continuous residence in Greece under the Golden Visa program, you may be eligible to apply for Greek citizenship. Citizenship would provide full rights as a European Union citizen, including the ability to live, work, and study in any EU country.

Long-Term Residency Options

For those who prefer a pathway not tied to significant investment, Greece offers the EU long-term residency option, which provides a stable residency status with broad benefits.

• Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for EU long-term residency in Greece, you need to have legally resided in the country for at least five continuous years. You must also demonstrate sufficient income to support yourself without relying on state assistance and maintain adequate health insurance. Basic knowledge of the Greek language and integration into Greek society are also key factors.
• Advantages: This residency status grants you similar rights to those of Greek citizens, including access to education, employment, and social services. Additionally, it allows for easier movement and residency in other EU member states, providing a level of flexibility that is highly valued by non-EU nationals.

The Road to Greek Citizenship

For those seeking a deeper commitment to Greece, acquiring citizenship through naturalization is the ultimate goal. While this process is more demanding, it offers unparalleled benefits.

• Requirements for Naturalization: Citizenship through naturalization requires at least seven years of continuous legal residency in Greece. You must also demonstrate good integration into Greek society, including language proficiency and a clear understanding of Greek history and culture. Moreover, a clean criminal record and proof of financial stability are mandatory.
• Dual Citizenship: Greece generally does not allow dual citizenship unless an exception is granted. Applicants must be prepared to renounce their previous citizenship if required.

Legal and Professional Support

Navigating the complex requirements for residency and citizenship in Greece can be challenging without professional guidance. Legal experts and real estate professionals offer essential support to ensure compliance with Greek regulations and optimize your investment.

• Professional Services: Firms like A.land and GH Legal s.r.o. specialize in providing comprehensive assistance to Golden Visa applicants and long-term residents. They offer services ranging from legal consultation and document preparation to property management and ongoing legal support, making the process smoother and more efficient.

This guide serves as an essential resource for anyone considering Greek residency or citizenship, whether through investment or long-term residency options. Understanding the requirements, benefits, and legal pathways available will empower you to make informed decisions and fully enjoy the opportunities Greece has to offer.

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