As we have previously noted, during 2024, the Government of Greece has announced various modifications to its Golden Visa program. Perhaps the most novel of these is the incorporation of investment in startups, introduced in September.
However, it wasn’t until last November that further details were provided, in an announcement that coincided with news coming from Spain. Some media outlets went as far as to claim that the real estate option for the Golden Visa in Greece was being terminated.
This is not accurate. On the contrary: the Greek Government’s announcements are expanding the range of investment options for this program. Let’s take a closer look at some aspects.
Clear Conditions for Startup Investments
The Ministry of National Economy and Finance of Greece presented a clear framework for those interested in obtaining the Golden Visa through investments in startups. This scheme will come into effect on January 1, 2025, and sets forth the following requirements:
- Inclusion in the National Startup Registry: The project must be registered in the National Startup Registry (Elevate Greece), ensuring its recognition and viability within the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- Job Creation: The investment must create at least two jobs in the first year and maintain them for at least five years.
- Capital Participation Limit: The investor’s participation in the startup must not exceed 33% of the capital.
The minimum investment requirement has been set at €250,000, an accessible threshold compared to similar programs in Europe, highlighting Greece’s attractiveness as a destination for innovative investments.
Real Estate Investment Continues for Golden Visa Greece
Despite rumors about the potential elimination of the Golden Visa through real estate investment, Greek authorities have confirmed the continuation of this option, one of the program’s most popular pathways. However, adjustments to the minimum required amounts have been introduced, effective from September 2024:
- €800,000 for properties in high-demand areas such as Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and other islands with more than 3,100 inhabitants.
- €400,000 for properties in other regions.
- €250,000 for properties intended for renovation or residential conversion.
These changes aim to balance demand in the real estate market and encourage investments in less saturated regions.
Faster and More Efficient Processing
A significant point of criticism from investors regarding the Greek program has been delays in visa processing, especially over the past year.
The government’s decision to open new offices in Athens, as well as distribute application submissions across regional offices, has greatly improved processing efficiency.
According to IMI Daily, processing times have dropped from 20 months to just three. Reducing the waiting time to receive residency undoubtedly adds further appeal to Greece and its Golden Visa.
At AIM Global, We Can Help You Invest in Golden Visa Greece
Both the new investment pathway in startups and the continuation of real estate investment ensure that Greece remains an attractive destination for those seeking international mobility and EU residency benefits.
Our team is ready to guide you towards the most suitable option for your investor profile, whether in startups or properties.
With offices in Santiago and Lisbon, we can assist you with procedures that can be managed from Chile or Latin America, as well as those requiring your presence in Greece.
Don’t hesitate any longer—schedule a meeting with us. We are specialists in global mobility.
