Greece Golden Visa

HARVEY LAW GROUP PRESENTS A MEDITERRANEAN PATHWAY TO EU RESIDENCY As with the Portugal Golden Visa we explored in this magazine’s June issue, the Greece Golden Visa (or Greece Investment Residence Permit) remains one of Europe’s most accessible residency programmes for non-EU nationals. Even with the recent changes to the minimum investment thresholds, the Greece Golden Visa continues to offer multiple proper ty-based routes to residency, with these amendments helping to ensure the long-term sustainability and flexibility of the programme. High-demand areas such as Attica (including central Athens and Piraeus), Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini and any island with over 3,100 inhabitants now require a minimum real-estate investment of EUR800,000; whereas for all other locations across the country, including hidden gems and charming mainland towns, the entry point remains lower at EUR400,000. For those willing to think creatively, a EUR250,000 investment remains possible – either by converting commercial properties into residential use or restoring buildings of cultural or historical significance. The Greece Golden Visa allows applicants (and family members) to obtain a five-year renewable residence permit, with no minimum stay requirement and no language test, unless pursuing eventual citizenship. Greek residents are able to enjoy the same benefits as Greek citizens, notably access to free public healthcare and education, and they are granted the freedom to travel throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180- day period. Although the profiles of applicants are fairly varied, we would say that they usually have in common a love for Southern Europe and rich historic culture, and the desire to spend quality time in Greece, either during holidays or upon retirement. The realestate option enables investors to acquire a holiday home in which to enjoy annual family reunions. From its ancient cities to its hundreds of islands, Greece offers a lifestyle that is relaxed, safe and rooted in culture. It is quite simply a beautiful place to spend time. From an investment perspective, Greece offers af fordable entr y into the EU proper ty market, with low annual proper ty tax, no wealth tax and the potential for long-term capital appreciation. When we decided to introduce the Greece Golden Visa to Around DB readers, one of our colleagues asked us to share her personal experience: “I had the privilege of exploring Greece on my solo trips to Cor fu and Santorini, two vastly dif ferent islands, each with their own unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm and cultural depth. It is one thing to read about Greece; it is another to understand what it feels like to be there. I would encourage anyone to go visit.” If you are considering applying for the Greece Golden Visa, you may contact Harvey Law Group. With over 32 years of experience in investment residency and citizenship programmes all over the world, we would be happy to advise you. 5-DAY ITINERARY: ATHENS AND SANTORINI As an entrée to Greece, spend some time in the ancient, culture-rich capital and then make your way to Santorini, the ultimate Greek island getaway Day 1 ⇢ Athens -Head straight to the Acropolis in the morning (to beat the crowds). Visible from almost everywhere within the city, it ’s dubbed ‘the most impor tant ancient si te in the Western world’. Explore majestic ruins like the Par thenon, Temple of Athena Nike and Theatre of Dionysus -Visit the Acropolis Museum to see treasures from the Archaic to Roman periods, and check out the glass floor that reveals excavated ruins beneath -Come nightfall, hunker down at a taverna with a rooftop view over the city. Order the best dolmades, moussaka and baklava you’ve ever tasted! Day 2 ⇢ Athens -Spend a day exploring the city. Stroll through Monastiraki Flea Market for local craf ts, souvenirs… and people-watching. Catch the changing of the guard outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Walk around Plaka, the old town – think cobbled streets, boutique stores and gelato -Relax in the shade at the National Garden next to the Parliament building, where parrots fly freely, or make your way to the Hill of the Muses with its dense pine forest and glorious views across the Saronic Gulf -Finish the day with a plate of apochti, a traditional pork dish marinated in vinegar and spices, washed down with a glass of Assyr tiko Day 3 ⇢ Santorini -Take an ear ly 45-minute f light to Santorini, famous for its sundrenched hi l ls; whi tewashed, blue-roofed buildings and blacksand beaches. Check into a hotel in Fira, Oia or Pyrgos with views across the Aegean -Hike the Fira to Oia trail (just over 10km) stopping off to explore the hilltop villages of Imerovigli and Fi ros t e f ani . Br ing a pac ked lunch of fava dip, flatbread, grilled octopus and tomato fritters -Grab a front-row seat for the breathtaking Santorini sunset. Oia’s Byzantine castle ruins have by far the most beautiful view but the spot is best avoided over the summer due to overcrowding Day 4 ⇢ Santorini -Relax on Perissa Beach, one of the longest on the island: rent an iconic blue-and-white striped deckchair and treat yourself to a Negroni Day 5 ⇢ Santorini -Explore the ruins of Akrotiri, the real Atlantis on Santorini’s southernmost tip. The prehistoric, Bronze-age town is preserved in volcanic ash – like Pompeii, but Greek -Stop by a winery for a chilled tasting session or take a catamaran cr uise around the calder a to learn more about the island and it s legendar y volcanic eruption. Enjoy one last Greek meal as you look out across the Aegean