As golden visa routes narrow across Europe, Greece stands out in 2025 as one of the few EU countries maintaining a clear, accessible residency-by-investment programme. With other nations raising entry thresholds or discontinuing their schemes altogether, Greece has restructured its programme without shutting the door—making it one of the most strategic opportunities in the investment migration space today.
A Tiered Approach with Defined Pathways
Greece’s updated Golden Visa rules, effective from August 2024, now offer three distinct investment thresholds tied directly to the type and location of property. The €800,000 tier applies to high-demand areas like central Athens, Thessaloniki, Santorini, and Mykonos. The €400,000 tier covers the rest of the country.
However, what truly sets Greece apart is its €250,000 tier, which remains valid for properties converted from commercial to residential use. This allows savvy investors to secure EU residency at one of the lowest thresholds available across the continent—provided the property meets specific redevelopment criteria.
The €250,000 Opportunity: Still Within Reach
While headlines often focus on increased thresholds, the €250,000 investment route is still viable, particularly in select urban areas undergoing transformation. Locations such as Peristeri, just 6km from central Athens, offer qualifying properties that have been legally converted from commercial use into modern residential units.
These developments not only meet Golden Visa requirements, but also benefit from growing demand, improved infrastructure, and long-term rental potential. For investors looking to maximise value while meeting residency goals, this option remains one of the most compelling in the EU.
Why Greece Appeals to Global Investors in 2025
Greece continues to attract investors from the US, India, and the Middle East, who are drawn to the country’s balanced offering of lifestyle, legal access, and affordability. In a post-pandemic, geopolitically uncertain world, Greece offers a stable, EU-based solution that blends modern infrastructure with Mediterranean charm.
Residency through Greece’s Golden Visa offers:
- Visa-free Schengen travel
- Five-year renewable residency (with no stay requirement)
- Access to education and healthcare
- Inclusion of family members
- A lifestyle that supports long-term relocation or seasonal living
Strategic Timing Matters
As more countries scale back or suspend golden visa programmes, the window of opportunity in Greece becomes more significant. Demand for €250,000-eligible properties has risen, especially in key redevelopment zones. Investors who act now can still secure an EU foothold at a time when alternatives are shrinking.
With future adjustments always possible under EU scrutiny, now is not the time to delay. Investing early means securing a position under favourable rules—before further limitations potentially take effect.
In Summary
Greece is not just holding the line on investment migration—it’s offering one of the most balanced, transparent, and future-ready programmes in Europe. With its tiered structure, including a €250,000 option tied to meaningful redevelopment, it invites investors to act not out of urgency—but with confidence.
For those seeking EU residency with both strategy and lifestyle in mind, Greece remains the open door worth stepping through.
