Golden Visa Greece: Timeline, Process and Key Requirements
Getting residency via the Greece Golden Visa is a multi-step process. Understanding the timeline, required documents and key milestones helps you stay in control and avoid costly delays.
1. Preliminary Planning & Investment Decision
Choose your investment route (real estate, conversion/restoration, other eligible options).
Decide the region (premium vs secondary) which will determine your minimum investment.
Engage local legal counsel, real-estate experts and ensure you meet eligibility criteria: non-EU/EEA citizen, clean criminal record, able to prove legal source of funds.
2. Property/Investment Acquisition & Documentation
For real estate: purchase agreement, due diligence, transfer of funds, property registration.
For conversion/restoration route: ensure the commercial-to-residential conversion or heritage restoration meets the conditions.
Collect supporting documents: passport, health insurance coverage valid in Greece, proof of investment funds, applicant & dependents’ documents.
3. Application Submission & Processing
Submit at the relevant Greek immigration authority (via your lawyer or in person).
Typical processing timeline: many sources suggest between 3-8 months after submission.
During processing, you may be asked to provide additional documents or clarifications — prompt responses speed things up.
Not sure if the €250,000 Startup Visa is right for you? Let’s talk it through together. ➝ Book a no-pressure, no-cost consultation today.
4. Permit Issuance & Five-Year Residence Permit
Once approved, you receive a five-year renewable residence permit.
No required minimum stay in Greece for renewal — you maintain status via the investment.
5. Renewal & Long-Term View (Citizenship Pathway)
To renew, you must maintain the qualifying investment and ensure no changes invalidate the criteria (e.g., property sold prematurely).
Citizenship is possible after 7 years of legal residence (and additional criteria like language/integration may apply).
Conclusion
Having a clear roadmap for the timeline and process positions you well to minimise delays and avoid surprise setbacks. With correct preparation, the Greece Golden Visa route is structured and transparent — you just need to stay proactive and well-informed.
