Indian investors rapidly bought Greek properties to secure residency before the updated Greece Golden Visa took effect on September 1. Purchases increased by 37 percent in July and August. The new investment threshold for key cities now stands at €800,000, while other regions require €400,000.
In July and August, Indian investors rapidly bought Greek properties to secure residency before Greece's Golden Visa changes took effect on September 1.
Property purchases by Indian investors rose by 37 percent during these months.
The updated Golden Visa Programme has now doubled the minimum investment required to qualify for a visa through real estate purchases in key Tier I cities such as Athens and Santorini, increasing the threshold to €800,000.
In Tier II regions, covering the rest of Greece, the minimum investment has been raised to €400,000 from €250,000.
The Greece Golden Visa Programme, aimed at attracting non-EU nationals, was updated in 2024 to introduce new investment thresholds and conditions.
Applicants must meet several criteria, including non-EU/EEA citizenship, being 18 or older, and having a clean criminal record.
The benefits of the programme include residency rights, visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone, inclusion of family members, and the potential to apply for Greek citizenship after seven years.
Applicants must provide documentation such as valid passports, proof of investment, biometric data, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
Legal representation is mandatory, requiring a licensed lawyer in Greece to handle documentation and compliance.
The initial residency permit is valid for five years and renewable, while permanent residency is possible after seven years of continuous residence.
Dependents, including spouses, partners, children, and parents, can also derive benefits from the programme.