Greece, formally known as the Hellenic Republic, is located in Southern Europe. It covers an area of 131,957 square kilometers. It has a population of about 10.4 million people and its capital city is Athens. It is a member of the European Union and the Schengen area.
Immigration by investment
Non-EU residents can acquire residence permit by making a significant investment in Greece. This program is called the Golden Visa for Greece program. For one to be eligible to acquire residence through this program, one must:
- Be 18 years of age and above.
- Must not have a history of criminal records in their country.
- Must make a significant investment in Greece.
- Must have health insurance from a company in Greece.
The options for one to invest in Greece are:
- Purchasing a real estate property worth at least 250,000 Euros.
- Signing a lease agreement with a hotel or any other tourist establishment for a period of not less than 10 years.
- Make a deposit of 400,000 Euros in a bank in Greece.
- Make an investment of at least 800,000 Euros in a corporate bond or Greek government bond.
- Make an investment of at least 400,000 Euros in bonds or shares of a real estate investment company.
Benefits of the Greek Golden Visa
- Its investment options are relatively lower financially compared to other EU members.
- The visa can be extended to family members like spouses, parents and children under the age of 21 years.
- One does not have to live in Greece for any specific period in order to renew the permit.
- The individual and their family members can travel the Schengen area visa-free.
- After seven years of residence, one can apply for citizenship.
The Greek Golden Visa is valid for 5 years and can be renewed as long as one maintains the investment. One does not have to live in Greece in order to renew the permit. One only has to maintain the investment.
Documents required for application of the Greek Golden Visa
- Application form.
- Recent passport photos of oneself following certain requirements.
- Valid passport as well as a copy, and the entry visa.
- Proof of sufficient funds to cater for your needs without being a burden.
- Proof of having paid the relevant fees.
- All the necessary documents for proof of investment, be it a hotel or real estate company.
Residence Certificate
If one does not wish to follow the investor route, then one can apply for a Certificate of Registration or Residence Certificate. This can be done at a police station or at the Alien’s Bureau. The residence certificate, also called a stay document, is a residence permit for those with a long-stay visa. To acquire it, one must have a current valid visa that will act as their residence permit, or apply for a residence permit. There are two types of stay documents:
Permanent Residence Certificate – this allows the holders to stay and work in Greece indefinitely, enjoying similar rights and perks as Greek citizens.
Residence permit – valid for a specific time period and can be renewed on expiry.
Life in Greece
Greece has a coastline and has beautiful scenery, wildlife, architecture, and attractive weather all year round that allows for outdoor activities like water skiing. Life is affordable, especially compared to other EU members. It is rich in culture and has a quality health care system. It is one of the safest countries in Europe. However, life especially around tourist destinations is a bit more expensive. Learning the local language increases one’s chances for employment, even if it may be a bit tasking. The healthcare system is a victim of bureaucratic red tape. Demonstrations and protests are not uncommon in larger cities.
