Step 1: Assess the Investor's Eligibility
Before selecting a property, investors should first determine:
- Nationality
- Family members
- Investment budget
- Source of funds
- Intended property location
- Investment structure
- Long-term objectives
This is particularly important because the minimum property investment now depends on the location and characteristics of the investment.
Step 2: Select a Qualifying Investment
The investor then identifies a qualifying investment.
For the real-estate route, the property must satisfy the applicable legal requirements.
This is where investors need to be especially careful.
A property advertised online as:
“Greece Golden Visa — €250,000”
does not necessarily mean that any property anywhere in Greece can qualify for €250,000.
The €250,000 threshold is now associated with specific qualifying situations, while other areas have higher thresholds.
Step 3: Legal and Property Due Diligence
Before completing the purchase, investors should conduct legal due diligence.
This can include checking:
- Property ownership
- Title documents
- Existing mortgages or encumbrances
- Planning status
- Building permits
- Property use
- Purchase contract
- Eligibility under Golden Visa regulations
This stage is extremely important because buying property does not automatically guarantee Golden Visa eligibility.
The property and transaction must satisfy the relevant legal conditions.
Step 4: Complete the Investment
Once the investor and legal team are satisfied with the property and transaction, the investment can proceed.
The investor should keep clear documentation showing:
- Purchase agreement
- Payment
- Property registration
- Ownership
- Tax documentation
- Other required transaction documents
The Greek Ministry specifically requires documentation relating to the purchase or qualifying transaction when applying for the investor residence permit.
Step 5: Submit the Residence Application
After the qualifying investment is completed, the investor submits the residence application together with the required supporting documents.
The application process includes government requirements such as identification documents, photographs and health insurance, together with documentation proving the qualifying investment.
Step 6: Biometrics
The applicant may need to complete biometric procedures as part of the residence-permit process.
This is an important practical stage for investors planning their travel to Greece.
Step 7: Receive the Residence Permit
Once the application is approved and the required procedures are completed, the investor receives the Greek residence permit.