Greece’s Golden Visa program continues to attract strong interest from global investors, with Chinese nationals emerging as the dominant participants. As of February 2025, more than 6,500 residence permits have been issued to Chinese citizens since the program’s inception in 2013, reinforcing China’s status as the largest contributor to Greece’s investment migration inflow.
The program, which offers residency in Greece through real estate investment, has gained significant popularity due to its affordable entry threshold, relatively simple application process, and the allure of living in a European Union country with visa-free access to the Schengen Zone.
Greece’s Golden Visa Still a Magnet for Chinese Investors
The surge in Chinese applications highlights the enduring appeal of European residency for China’s upper-middle and wealthy classes, particularly those seeking to diversify their assets, gain educational opportunities for their children, and establish a European foothold for business or retirement.
Under Greece’s program, investors must purchase real estate valued at a minimum of €250,000—though this amount has recently increased to €500,000 in popular areas like Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini. In return, they receive a renewable five-year residence permit for themselves and their immediate family members.
The low cost, compared to other EU Golden Visa programs, has long made Greece an attractive destination for investors, especially from China, where capital controls and economic uncertainty have led many to explore offshore investment options.
Why Chinese Nationals Prefer Greece’s Golden Visa
Several factors contribute to the popularity of the Greek program among Chinese nationals:
•Affordability: The program has one of the lowest investment thresholds in Europe, especially for non-prime locations still eligible at €250,000.
•Ease of Access: No minimum stay requirement and the ability to include family members make it highly appealing.
•EU Access: The visa allows for travel across the Schengen Zone without additional permits.
•Education and Lifestyle: Greek residency grants access to European education and healthcare systems, which are seen as valuable assets for families.
What the Numbers Show
According to Greece’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum, out of all nationalities applying for Golden Visas, Chinese investors account for over 62% of total approvals. The next largest groups are nationals from Turkey, Lebanon, Iran, and Russia.
This dominance is not surprising. Real estate agents in Athens and Piraeus report that Chinese buyers often purchase multiple units in a single transaction and work with agencies to manage the properties remotely. The demand is so high that some Greek developers have tailored new projects specifically for the Chinese market.
Program Changes and Future Outlook
In 2023 and 2024, the Greek government implemented new minimum investment thresholds in high-demand regions to manage the real estate boom and address housing affordability concerns for local residents. The new €500,000 threshold in key locations did little to deter Chinese interest, suggesting that demand remains strong even with increased costs.
However, as the program matures, policymakers are tightening eligibility criteria and increasing scrutiny to prevent misuse. Recent discussions have included more rigorous source-of-funds verification and enhanced due diligence checks—especially as Golden Visa programs across Europe face pressure from the European Commission for more transparency.
China’s Dominance Reflects a Broader Trend
The fact that over 6,500 Chinese nationals have secured Greek Golden Visas reflects not only the popularity of the program but also a broader global trend: the increasing desire of affluent individuals in emerging markets to obtain second residency or citizenship for reasons ranging from mobility to family security.
As Greece continues to refine its Golden Visa offerings, it remains one of the most attractive gateways to Europe, particularly for investors from China and other non-EU countries. Whether future reforms will reshape this dynamic is yet to be seen, but for now, Chinese demand continues to drive the Greek Golden Visa forward.
