The Greece Golden Visa continues to attract thousands of global investors every year. But what exactly drives this demand?
In this expert interview, Anna Semenyuk, Citizenship by Investment Programs Advisor at Immigrant Invest, shares insights into who applies for the Golden Visa, how the numbers are changing, and why Greece remains one of the most attractive destinations for residency by investment.
What Is the Greece Golden Visa and Who Can Benefit From It?
The Greece Golden Visa was launched in 2014. It allows non-EU nationals to obtain a five-year renewable residence permit by purchasing real estate or making an alternative qualifying investment.
According to Anna Semenyuk, “The Golden Visa offers a strong combination of benefits: affordable real estate entry point, visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, and a flexible lifestyle without any stay requirement.”
What Are the Main Trends in 2025?
Anna Semenyuk points out that demand for the Greek residence permit has surged in early 2025. “This rise is linked to policy updates and shifting investor priorities,” she explains. “Applicants are racing to secure permits before new rules affect their preferred regions.”
Trends also show a diversification in investor profiles, with interest growing beyond the traditional markets of Asia and the Middle East.
Greece continues to rank among the most attractive destinations for residence by investment in Europe, alongside countries such as Portugal, Greece, and Hungary.
Which Nationalities Apply Most Often for the Greece Golden Visa?
Historically, Chinese nationals have led the applicant pool. However, recent data reveals growing numbers from:
- Сhina.
- Lebanon.
- Iran.
- Egypt.
- Russia.
- Turkey.
- United Kingdom.
- United States of America.
Anna Semenyuk explains, “We’ve seen more Americans and British nationals applying, especially post-Brexit and in response to rising global tensions.”
Why Is Interest in the Greece Golden Visa Increasing?
The expert outlines several reasons:
- no requirement to live in Greece permanently;
- access to the Schengen Area;
- family members can be included;
- the real estate threshold is relatively low outside premium zones;
- residency can be renewed indefinitely.
“This is a solid Plan B for many investors,” she says. “It’s not just about relocation — it’s about having options.”
Where Do Investors Prefer to Buy Property?
Until recently, most investors targeted Greece Golden Visa properties in Athens and Thessaloniki. But in 2023, Greece introduced regional investment thresholds. Now, the minimum investment is €800,000 in high-demand areas like Athens and Thessaloniki. In less popular regions, the threshold for ready-to-move-in properties starts at €400,000, while €250,000 remains valid in all regions for property bought for renovation.
“Clients are increasingly looking to coastal towns that offer charm and value,” Anna Semenyuk adds.
How Have Recent Policy Changes Affected Investor Behaviour?
“The policy shift in 2023 was designed to cool the urban housing market,” Anna Semenyuk explains. “It raised the minimum real estate investment to €400,000 and €800,000 in key zones.”
This change prompted a wave of pre-deadline applications. However, Anna notes that demand has not diminished. “Investors have simply adapted — many are now exploring opportunities in regional areas with lower thresholds.”
How Does Greece Compare to Other European Golden Visas?
Compared with Portugal or Italy, the Greek Golden Visa stands out for several reasons:
- lower starting investment for real estate;
- faster application review;
- no physical presence obligation;
- consistent inclusion of spouse, children, and parents.
“With Portugal eliminating real estate as an option, Greece has become a go-to choice for property investors,” Anna Semenyuk says.
What Do the Application Numbers and Approvals Look Like?
Since its launch, the Greece Golden Visa has granted over 20,000 permits to main applicants and 50,000+ to their family members.
“In 2023 alone, over 5,700 new residence permits were issued,” Anna Semenyuk notes. “The approval rate remains very high, provided applicants meet the Due Diligence requirements.”
How Does the Greece Golden Visa Influence the Real Estate Market?
The influx of international investors has reshaped property markets in Athens, Thessaloniki, and several islands. While property prices have risen, there are benefits too.
Anna Semenyuk explains, “Foreign buyers have revitalised older buildings, spurred rental demand, and helped rebuild neighbourhoods — especially in central Athens.”
Still, local concerns about affordability remain, which is why the government has introduced region-based thresholds.
What Does the Future Hold for the Greece Golden Visa?
“The Golden Visa is evolving,” says Anna Semenyuk. “Regulators want to balance investor interest with local housing needs, but the fundamentals are strong.”
Greece offers Mediterranean lifestyle, EU mobility, and real estate potential — all at a relatively low entry cost.
“As long as these core benefits remain, we expect steady demand from global investors seeking a secure, flexible residency option in the European Union.”
This article was written in cooperation with Andrew Wilson