Owning property is a tangible way to both settle and invest in Greece.
- Greece counts more than 6,000 islands and islets, of which roughly 200 are inhabited.
- It has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, sunny winters.
- A European Union member since 1981 and part of the eurozone, Greece uses the euro (EUR).
Tourism contributes a sizeable share of GDP, welcoming tens of millions of visitors yearly.
After the 2010s debt crisis, the economy has recovered and returned to growth.
The Greece property market
Labour costs are more competitive than in Western Europe, appealing to some investors.
Renewable energy and technology are emerging growth areas.
Greece's economy leans on tourism, shipping and agriculture.
The buying process
Greece runs a Golden Visa programme granting residence to real-estate investors.
- Since August 2024 the minimum investment rose to around EUR 800,000 in prime areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos and Santorini.
- In many other areas the threshold is roughly EUR 400,000, with lower tiers for certain heritage-restoration projects.
- The Golden Visa residence card is valid for five years and renews while the investment is held.
- The programme sets no minimum-stay requirement, which suits busy investors.
- The permit covers the whole family, including spouse, dependent children and both sets of parents.
Costs and taxes
The public health system (ESY) serves residents, though many add private insurance.
Residence holders must register a tax number (AFM) and a social-security number.
Public transport in Athens includes a convenient metro, buses and trams.
Renting and yields
Property, especially in Athens, has rebounded strongly on Golden Visa demand and tourism.
Farm exports include olive oil, fruit, wine and seafood.
As an EU and eurozone member, Greece accesses the European single market.
Avoiding pitfalls
Holders enjoy free movement within the Schengen Area without a separate visa.
Besides property, investors may qualify through bonds, shares or bank deposits at set thresholds.
When buying, budget for transfer tax, notary and legal fees on top of the purchase price.
Need a tailored roadmap?
Viking Global Group walks with you from paperwork to settlement. Call +849.219.219.88 or email [email protected] for a free consultation.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the steps to buy property in Greece for residency?
Typical steps are obtaining a Greek tax number, opening a bank account, appointing a lawyer to check the property, signing a preliminary agreement, transferring funds through a bank, signing the final contract before a notary, registering ownership and then applying for the residence permit.
What does legal due diligence cover?
A lawyer checks ownership and land registry records, mortgages and liens, disputes, building permits and any unauthorised additions, energy certificates and outstanding property taxes. This step protects buyers from inheriting legal problems.
Do buyers need to be in Greece in person?
Many steps can be handled through a power of attorney given to a lawyer, but biometrics for the residence permit usually require an in-person appointment. Visiting before buying is strongly recommended so that decisions are not based only on photographs.
What happens after the purchase is completed?
After registration of ownership, the buyer submits the residence application with passport, contract, proof of payment, health insurance, criminal record and family documents. Applicants typically receive a certificate confirming lawful stay while the permit is processed.
What mistakes should buyers avoid?
Common mistakes include buying unseen, skipping permit checks, underestimating taxes and fees, transferring money outside the banking system, and ignoring changes in regional thresholds. An independent lawyer and an in-person visit help avoid most problems.
Information is for reference and may change under the latest official policy. Please contact us for current regulations.
