Always dreamed of living by the Mediterranean, enjoying the historic charm of Athens, or the breathtaking sunset views of Santorini? Now, it’s possible.
Greece is welcoming global investors—including Indians—through its Golden Visa programme, a long-term residency option that opens the door to Europe. Launched in 2013, this scheme has since become one of the most popular residency-by-investment programs in the world.
What is the Greece Golden Visa?
The Greece Golden Visa is essentially a residency-by-investment scheme. By making an approved financial investment, non-EU citizens and their families can obtain a 5-year renewable residence permit.
With this, you get the right to live, work, and study in Greece, as well as visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
And here’s the best part: you don’t have to permanently live in Greece to maintain your residency status.
Why Indians Should Consider the Greece Golden Visa
Here’s why the programme is particularly attractive for Indians:
- No residency requirement – You can hold residency in Greece while continuing to live primarily in India.
- Visa-free travel in Europe – Access to 29 Schengen countries without multiple visa applications.
- Family covered – Spouse and dependent children under 21 are included.
- Healthcare & education – Access to Greece’s public systems, just like locals.
- Path to citizenship – After 7 years of living in Greece, you can apply for Greek citizenship (subject to eligibility).
- Lifestyle & business gateway – A European base with Mediterranean charm, culture, and investment opportunities.
Investment Options for Greece Golden Visa
There are multiple ways to qualify for Greece’s Golden Visa:
Real Estate Investments
- €500,000 (approx. ₹5.1 crore) in high-demand zones like Athens, Santorini, Mykonos.
- €250,000 (approx. ₹2.55 crore) in residential or commercial real estate in select regions.
- €400,000 (approx. ₹4.09 crore) in properties across other parts of Greece.
Other Approved Investments
- €500,000 capital contribution to a Greek company or fixed-term deposit in a Greek bank.
- €500,000+ in Greek government bonds or €800,000+ in corporate bonds/shares listed in Greece.
- €350,000 (approx. ₹3.58 crore) minimum in a Greece-focused mutual fund.
- New proposal: €250,000 investment in Greek startups.
The real estate option remains the most popular, particularly among international buyers who also want property ownership in the EU.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Choose Your Investment – Finalize and complete the required financial investment.
- Prepare Documents – Gather all necessary paperwork (passport, financial proof, police clearance, etc.).
- Submit Application – File through the Aliens and Immigration Department, often with the help of a lawyer.
- Pay Fees –
- €2,000 (approx. ₹2.04 lakh) for the main applicant
- €150 (approx. ₹15,300) per dependent
- €16 (approx. ₹1,600) for residence card
- Biometrics in Greece – Visit Greece personally to provide fingerprints.
- Wait for Decision – Approval typically takes 6 to 12 months.
- Get Your Residence Permit – Once approved, you’ll receive a 5-year permit, renewable.
Required Documents
Applicants must generally provide:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Proof of investment (contracts, bank transfers, etc.)
- Health insurance (for you and dependents)
- Clean criminal record certificate
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Marriage certificate (if applying with spouse)
- Birth certificates of children
- Completed application form
Final Thoughts
The Greece Golden Visa may require a significant financial outlay, but it comes with long-term benefits:
✔ Residency for the whole family
✔ Visa-free European travel
✔ Pathway to Greek citizenship and EU residency rights
✔ Access to healthcare, education, and an enviable lifestyle in the Mediterranean
For Indians looking for a blend of business opportunity, family security, and leisure in Europe, Greece’s Golden Visa is one of the most appealing residency-by-investment programmes available today.
