Greece increases investment needed for Golden Visa residency

Greece has announced an increase in the investment threshold for its Golden Visa program, which grants residency to non-EU nationals who invest in the country. Previously, the minimum required investment was €250,000, but the new threshold has been raised to €500,000 for certain regions. This change is aimed at controlling rising property prices in popular areas like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Mykonos, which have seen significant demand from foreign investors.

The increase targets high-demand urban and tourist hotspots, where housing affordability concerns have grown. By raising the bar, Greece hopes to balance foreign investment with domestic housing needs.

The revised threshold will mainly affect investors looking to purchase properties in central, high-demand areas. Investors in other parts of the country may still be able to enter the program at the lower €250,000 mark, preserving opportunities in less competitive regions.

This move aligns with broader trends in Europe, where several countries are tightening their Golden Visa schemes. It reflects Greece’s aim to regulate the flow of foreign capital, safeguard local housing markets, and prioritize sustainable investment.