Greece Golden Visa Applications Reach All-Time High in 2024, Driven by Global Investor Interest
The Greece Golden Visa program experienced unprecedented demand in 2024, with a record 9,289 applications submitted by investors seeking European residency. As Spain ends its Golden Visa program and Portugal shifts its investment rules, Greece has now become one of the top destinations for investment migration in Europe.
The rising number of applications reflects growing global interest in Greece’s residency-by-investment program, particularly from Chinese, Turkish, Middle Eastern, and American investors. With its affordable investment threshold, fast processing times, and Schengen visa-free access, the Greece Golden Visa remains an attractive option for those looking to secure a long-term foothold in Europe.
Why Is Greece’s Golden Visa Program So Popular?
Greece offers one of the most competitive residency-by-investment programs in the EU, with key advantages that attract high-net-worth individuals worldwide.
1. Low Investment Threshold Compared to Other Countries
• €250,000 minimum investment in real estate (rising to €500,000 in high-demand areas like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini).
• Compared to Portugal’s €500,000 minimum investment, Greece remains a more accessible entry point into Europe.
2. Fast and Efficient Application Process
• Approval times as short as 60-90 days, making it one of the fastest Golden Visa programs in Europe.
•No physical stay requirement—investors are not obligated to live in Greece full-time.
3. Schengen Visa-Free Travel
•Holders of the Greece Golden Visa gain visa-free access to 27 Schengen Zone countries, allowing seamless mobility across Europe.
4. Strong Rental Yield and Real Estate Appreciation
• Greek real estate remains affordable compared to other European markets, yet property values have been steadily increasing due to foreign investment.
• High tourism demand ensures strong rental yields, especially in Athens, Crete, and Santorini.
5. Family Inclusion
•The Greece Golden Visa covers spouses, children under 21, and even parents, making it one of the most family-friendly residency programs.
Top Countries Applying for the Greece Golden Visa in 2024
Greece has attracted investors from all over the world, but the largest numbers of applications in 2024 came from:
1️⃣ China – Chinese investors continue to dominate, making up nearly 50% of applications.
2️⃣ Turkey – Rising economic concerns and a weak Turkish lira have pushed more Turkish investors toward Greek residency.
3️⃣ Middle East (UAE, Lebanon, Egypt) – Investors from the Gulf region see Greece as a secure long-term European residency option.
4️⃣ United States – Interest from American investors has increased, as more US citizens seek dual residency options.
With demand at an all-time high, experts predict that Greece may introduce further investment threshold increases to regulate application numbers.
What’s Next for the Greece Golden Visa Program?
📌 Further Increases in Investment Thresholds Possible
• The Greek government has already raised investment limits in high-demand areas, and more increases could be coming as demand continues to grow.
📌 More Digital Application Processes
• Authorities are working on further streamlining the online application system, making it even easier for foreign investors to apply remotely.
📌 Continued Growth in International Investor Interest
• With other European Golden Visa programs becoming more restrictive, Greece will likely see another record-breaking year in 2025.
Investment Migration Expert Yusuf Boz on Greece’s Golden Visa Growth
Investment migration specialist Yusuf Boz believes that Greece’s Golden Visa will remain one of the best European residency programs for the foreseeable future:
“With Spain leaving the market and Portugal shifting focus, Greece has solidified itself as the top European destination for investment-based residency. The demand we’re seeing in 2024 proves that investors see Greece as a safe and valuable long-term option.”
Boz also warns that applicants should act quickly before further policy changes:
“The current €250,000 investment threshold is still low compared to other EU countries. Given the rising demand, we may see further increases soon. Those considering Greece’s Golden Visa should apply before prices go up.”
With applications at an all-time high, 2025 could be a pivotal year for Greece’s investment migration program.
Should You Apply for the Greece Golden Visa Now?
With Spain closing its program and Greece seeing record-high demand, now is the best time for investors to secure a Greece Golden Visa before further restrictions or price hikes occur.
✔ Fast processing times mean investors can secure residency in as little as 60-90 days.
✔ Schengen visa-free travel provides access to 27 European countries.
✔ Rising property values and rental yields make Greek real estate a profitable investment.
✔ Possible future investment threshold increases mean acting now is the smartest choice.
As demand for Golden Visas in Europe continues to surge, early investors will benefit the most from today’s lower entry requirements.
For expert guidance on securing a Greece Golden Visa, contact NotteGlobal today to explore your best investment options.
