Greece Golden Visa: A Gateway for Indians to Live, Work, and Study in Europe
Greece, renowned for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and Mediterranean charm, now offers an attractive opportunity for non-EU citizens, including Indians, through its Golden Visa program. Launched in 2013, this residence-by-investment scheme allows investors and their families to live, work, and study in Greece with a renewable 5-year residence permit. It also provides visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone, making it a strategic entry point into Europe.
What Is Greece’s Golden Visa?
The Greece Golden Visa is a residence permit granted in exchange for qualifying investments, primarily in real estate or financial assets within Greece. Unlike many other residency programs, it does not require holders to live in Greece to maintain their residency status, a significant advantage for Indians who prefer to stay rooted in their home country while enjoying European benefits. Besides residency, the visa offers access to Greece’s public healthcare and education for the holder and their dependents.
Key Benefits for Indian Investors
Long-term residency: The visa is valid for 5 years and is renewable.
Family inclusion: Spouse and dependent children under 21 are covered.
Schengen access: Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Path to citizenship: Continuous residency over 7 years opens eligibility for Greek citizenship.
Work, study, and business: Visa holders can pursue employment, education, or start businesses in Greece.
Lifestyle advantages: Enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle and use Greece as a European base without full-time residence obligations.
Investment Options to Qualify
Applicants can choose from diverse investment routes:
Real estate: Residential or commercial property investments, with the following thresholds:
€500,000 in high-demand areas like Athens or Santorini.
€250,000 in other residential or commercial properties.
€400,000 in other regions across Greece.
Other investments: Capital contribution in Greek companies or banks (€500,000+), government bonds (€500,000+), mutual funds (€350,000+), or startups (€250,000 min. proposed).
Step-by-Step Application Process
Select and complete the qualifying investment transaction.
Gather required documents, including passports, proofs of investment and funds, health insurance, and clean criminal records.
Submit the application to the Aliens and Immigration Department, usually with legal assistance.
Pay the application fee: €2,000 for the main applicant and additional fees for family members.
Visit Greece for biometric data submission.
Await approval, which typically takes 6 to 12 months.
Receive the residence permit upon approval.
Essential Documents
Applicants must provide a valid passport, recent photographs, proof of investment and funds, health insurance, criminal record certificate, marriage and birth certificates for dependents, and the completed application form.
Though Greece's Golden Visa program requires a significant investment, it presents a compelling opportunity for Indians seeking a foothold in Europe with flexible residency benefits, family inclusion, and a pathway to citizenship. It opens doors to a vibrant lifestyle enriched by Greek culture, business potential, and unmatched travel freedom within the Schengen Zone.
This program is ideal for investors balancing global mobility with continued ties to India, offering long-term residence and Schengen access without mandatory stay requirements. For Indians exploring international real estate and residency options, Greece stands out as a rewarding choice.
Reviewed by Aparna Decors
on
August 26, 2025
Rating:
