Navigating Greek Residency and Citizenship – Golden Visa and EU Long-Term Residency Options

Authored by Dr. Pooyan Ghamari, Swiss Economist

Greece offers various pathways for residency and citizenship, particularly through the Golden Visa program and EU long-term residency options. This guide explores the intricacies of these avenues, providing valuable insights for investors and expatriates alike.

Golden Visa Program in Greece

The Greek Golden Visa program is one of the most attractive in Europe, offering residency to non-EU citizens who invest in real estate or other approved sectors. The program has grown in popularity due to its relatively low investment threshold and the benefits it offers, such as visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.

• Investment Requirements: To qualify for a Golden Visa, investors must commit at least €250,000 to real estate or other approved investments in Greece. This is one of the lowest thresholds among European countries offering similar programs, making it an accessible option for many.
• Benefits: The Golden Visa grants residency for five years, renewable indefinitely as long as the investment is maintained. It allows visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone and offers a pathway to citizenship after seven years of continuous residence. Family members, including spouses and children under 21, can also be included in the application.
• Application Process: The application process is straightforward, typically taking three to six months from the submission of all required documents. Investors must provide proof of their investment, a clean criminal record, and health insurance. Once approved, the visa holder must visit Greece to finalize the process.

Long-Term Residency Options

Beyond the Golden Visa, Greece offers other long-term residency options, particularly for those who wish to live in the country without making significant investments.

• EU Long-Term Residency: Non-EU citizens who have legally resided in Greece for five continuous years can apply for EU long-term residency status. This status allows for more stable residency rights, including the ability to live and work in other EU countries under certain conditions.
• Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate five years of continuous legal residence, sufficient income to support themselves without relying on state benefits, and adequate health insurance. Proficiency in Greek may also be required, depending on the specific circumstances of the application.
• Advantages: EU long-term residency offers greater security and stability compared to other forms of residency. It provides similar rights to those enjoyed by EU citizens, including access to social services, education, and employment across the EU.

Pathway to Citizenship

For those aiming to secure Greek citizenship, there are specific pathways available. Citizenship by naturalization typically requires seven years of legal residency in Greece, with the possibility of a shorter period for those with Greek ancestry or who have made significant contributions to the country.

• Requirements for Citizenship: Applicants must prove continuous legal residence, demonstrate integration into Greek society, and pass a citizenship test that covers the Greek language, history, and culture. Additionally, they must renounce any previous citizenships, as Greece generally does not allow dual nationality.
• Benefits of Greek Citizenship: Greek citizenship confers the full rights of an EU citizen, including the ability to live, work, and study anywhere within the EU. It also allows visa-free travel to numerous countries around the world, making it a highly valuable status for global citizens.

Legal and Professional Assistance

Navigating the complexities of residency and citizenship in Greece requires careful planning and professional advice. Legal experts and real estate professionals can provide invaluable assistance in ensuring that all requirements are met and that the process is as smooth as possible.

• A.land and GH Legal s.r.o.: These firms specialize in assisting investors and expatriates with their residency and citizenship applications, offering a full range of services from legal consultation to property management. Their expertise ensures that applicants can confidently navigate the process and maximize the benefits of their new status in Greece.

This comprehensive guide aims to provide Golden Visa holders and long-term residents with the knowledge and tools they need to successfully establish themselves in Greece. Whether you are seeking residency, long-term stability, or full citizenship, understanding your options and obligations is crucial to making informed decisions about your future in this beautiful and culturally rich country.

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