Alexander Varnavas Appointed Investment Migration Council Field Officer for Greece

Greece offers far more than summer holidays, with Athens, the Riviera, islands, mountains, and the Peloponnese providing year-round opportunities for living.

Greece plans to increase Property Transfer Tax for third-country nationals from 3% to 15%. But should investments that create new housing be treated differently? Discover why property conversions, listed-building restorations, land and commercial properties may warrant exemptions, and why a targeted approach could better support housing supply while preserving foreign investment and regional economic activity.

Η προτεινόμενη αύξηση του Φόρου Μεταβίβασης από 3% σε 15% για υπηκόους τρίτων χωρών εγείρει σημαντικά ερωτήματα για την αγορά ακινήτων. Μάθετε γιατί οι επενδύσεις που δημιουργούν νέες κατοικίες, αποκαθιστούν διατηρητέα και αξιοποιούν ανενεργά κτίρια θα πρέπει να εξαιρεθούν, καθώς και γιατί απαιτείται γεωγραφικά στοχευμένη εφαρμογή του νέου φορολογικού μέτρου στην Ελλάδα.

The €250,000 Golden Visa route remains available through commercial-to-residential conversions and listed-building restoration, offering investors qualifying opportunities across Greece.

From the initial consultation and Power of Attorney to due diligence, biometrics, and approval, every stage of the Greek Golden Visa requires careful coordination.

For families, Greek Golden Visa residency provides access to Greece’s education system, including international schools and an expanding range of higher education options.

A successful Greek Golden Visa application depends on five key factors, including property compliance, legal due diligence, accurate documentation, and careful deadline management.

August transforms Greece through religious celebrations, family traditions, island gatherings, and a slower pace of life that makes the month uniquely memorable.

With €500,000, investors can consider different Greek residency and investment strategies, balancing real estate, family relocation, diversification, and long-term financial objectives.

Greek Golden Visa investors can qualify through government bonds, term deposits, or mutual funds, with most of the application process completed remotely.

The article addresses practical questions about the liquid-assets route, including whether spouses can co-invest, how family members are included, and how the investment structure differs from real estate.

MIDA & The New Era Of Property Transparency Executive Overview: Underway Structural Shift in Greek Real Estate Greece will be entering a new phase of real estate modernisation, where property ownership is no longer defined only by title deeds and registrations, but by the quality, consistency, and digital alignment of data across public systems. At the center of this […]

Why Legal Due Diligence Matters for International Investors Greece continues to attract international investors seeking lifestyle opportunities, property ownership, and residency solutions through investment. However, purchasing a property in Greece requires more than finding the right location or negotiating the right price. A successful investment begins with understanding the legal status of the property. This is where legal due diligence becomes essential. Legal due […]

For today’s internationally minded families, obtaining European residency is no longer simply about mobility. It has become a broader lifestyle and long-term planning decision. High-net-worth individuals from the Middle East, the UK, the USA, Asia, India and Turkey are increasingly asking a different question: Where should we establish our European base? The answer is increasingly […]

Wealth managers, family offices, and private bankers bear an immense responsibility when advising high-net-worth investors on investment migration. When evaluating Europe’s residency options, their due diligence goes far beyond lifestyle perks or visa-free travel. They look at regulatory stability, wealth preservation, estate planning, and asset management parameters. Today, Greece stands out as a highly strategic […]

Athens combines Mediterranean living with culture, music, festivals, dining, and everyday experiences that make the capital increasingly appealing for international residents.

Greece’s property market is entering a more sustainable phase, with moderating price growth, strong demand, and major developments reshaping investment opportunities.

Greece continues to attract international investors seeking residency through the Greek Golden Visa program. With its strategic location, high quality of life, strong tourism market, and access to the Schengen Area, Greece remains one of Europe’s most appealing residency-by-investment destinations. The good news for overseas investors is that it is entirely possible to complete a […]

Property investment in Greece involves more than the purchase price, with rental income, ownership taxes, transfer costs, and future disposal requiring careful planning.

Greek housing market shows signs of cooling: What it means for Golden Visa investors New data from the Bank of Greece indicates a notable shift in the trajectory of the Greek residential property market. While housing prices continue to rise, the pace of growth is clearly moderating compared to the rapid increases recorded in previous […]

Greece Remains One of Europe’s Most Attractive Golden Visa Destinations For international investors seeking European residency through real estate, Greece continues to stand out as one of the most attractive destinations in the world. While many residency-by-investment programs across Europe have increased their entry requirements or become more restrictive, Greece still offers carefully structured opportunities […]

Global demand for residency-by-investment programmes has given rise to a rapidly expanding ecosystem of visa consultants, migration agents, and intermediary firms offering streamlined pathways and simplified solutions. Yet as this market continues to grow, investors are increasingly recognising an important reality: securing residency is only one part of the journey. Protecting an investment, safeguarding legal […]

In recent years, residency-by-investment programs have evolved from niche immigration solutions into strategic global mobility tools for investors, entrepreneurs, retirees, and internationally active families. While many countries offer “Golden Visa” programs, not all are designed with the same level of flexibility. One of the most important distinctions between programs is whether applicants are required to physically reside in […]

The 2026 Golden Visa framework requires careful preparation, from confirming investment thresholds and property eligibility to completing comprehensive legal due diligence before purchase.

The Athens Riviera is no longer an emerging luxury destination. It has evolved into one of Europe’s most closely watched real estate markets, attracting international investors seeking residency, capital appreciation, and Mediterranean lifestyle assets in a single investment. A Strategic Shift in European Golden Visa Investment For Golden Visa investors, the appeal is increasingly strategic. […]

When investors first explore the Greek Golden Visa programme, most attention naturally goes to the minimum investment amount. Whether purchasing real estate or investing through another approved route, the investment threshold is usually the headline figure. However, many applicants soon discover that government fees and administrative expenses also play an important role in the total […]

Greece’s Economic Recovery Enters a New Phase Greece has entered a new chapter defined by resilience, stability, and renewed international confidence. Backed by declining public debt, improving sovereign ratings, and the anticipated reclassification of the Athens Stock Exchange to developed market status, the country is increasingly recognised as one of Europe’s most compelling economic success […]

Greek Golden Visa approvals surged in 2026, reflecting stronger processing, clearer regulations, continued property demand, and growing international interest in residency through investment.

Why Americans Are Choosing the Greek Golden Visa Program Greece has become one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for investors seeking residency, providing a combination of stability, economic growth and lifestyle appeal. For U.S. citizens, the Greek Golden Visa program offers a straightforward path to residency and real estate investments providing solid growth […]

Interest in Greece’s Golden Visa program has seen a notable surge in recent months, particularly among expatriates based in the United Arab Emirates. Professionals living in major hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi are increasingly exploring ways to secure European residency as a means of broadening their living options, driven by rising geopolitical uncertainty […]

The issuance of Circular No. 1/2026 by the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum marks an important regulatory milestone in the evolution of the Greek Golden Visa program.  For the first time since the major legislative changes of 2024–2025, the Ministry provides detailed, practical guidance on how the rules should be applied in real cases. […]

Europe’s Golden Visa programs continue to attract global investors seeking residency, mobility, and long-term security within the EU. Among the most prominent options are those offered by Greece, Italy, and Portugal, each with distinct advantages, investment thresholds, and strategic appeal. Golden Visa Europe Comparison: Key Differences for Investors For investors weighing their options, understanding the […]

Published on 22 April 2026, Circular No. 1/2026 of the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum signals a decisive new chapter for the Greek Golden Visa regime under Article 100, delivering long-awaited guidance on technical, procedural, and market-sensitive issues that have created uncertainty for authorities, case officers, lawyers, developers, and investors over the past two […]

Foreign buyers face legal, planning, taxation, rental, liquidity, and location-specific considerations, making thorough due diligence essential before investing in Greek property.

As of February 2024, Greece legally recognises same-sex marriage, aligning its laws with broader European standards on equality and civil rights. This change directly impacts the Greek Golden Visa program, making it possible for same-sex married couples and partners to easily benefit from its provisions. Under the updated framework: Submission of International Marriage Certificates Following […]

Spring is widely considered the ideal season to experience Greece beyond the capital. With mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds, it offers a clearer perspective on what living in Greece truly means. For international professionals, investors, and families considering residency in Greece or property investment, these nearby destinations offer more than short-term escapes; they […]

The landscape of the Greek Golden Visa has changed considerably. Since the full implementation of the updated framework and the issuance of the first permits under these rules in late 2025, one reality has become undeniable: the complexity of securing a residence permit through property investment has increased to higher levels. Under the previous rules, […]

For international investors looking toward Greece, the Greek Golden Visa is a primary route to European residency. Understanding how family law intersects with this program is essential for couples planning their transition together. With legal updates as of 2024, Greece has modernized its framework, ensuring that all couples, including same-sex partners, can secure their rights […]

Investing in Greek real estate continues to attract international buyers drawn by the country’s lifestyle, climate, and long-term potential. From island homes to mainland opportunities, Greece offers a diverse property landscape that can suit both personal and investment goals. However, beneath this appeal lies a market that requires careful navigation, particularly for foreign buyers unfamiliar […]

Greece has become a top European filming hub, attracting major Hollywood productions with its diverse scenery, while driving international investment and residency.

Greece’s property market is still trending upward, although the dynamics that underpinned its strong growth in recent years are starting to change.

MAIN POINTS OF NEW CHANGES: The Greek Parliament voted on the long-awaited amendments to the Greek Golden Visa program, which are detailed below. Two Investment Zones €800/€400k: For the Region of Attica, the Regional Units of Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, and the islands with a population of more than 3,100 inhabitants, the minimum value of […]

In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to move freely across borders has long been taken for granted by internationally active individuals. For business leaders, investors, and globally mobile families, international travel is not simply a convenience but a fundamental component of modern economic life. Yet recent global events have demonstrated that mobility is far […]

Discover Greece’s vibrant food culture – from weekly laiki markets and fresh seasonal produce to the Mediterranean diet.

Greece offers a stable economic and political environment, drawing a wide range of international investors.

Greece’s Golden Visa program is playing an increasingly evolving role in the country’s real estate market, particularly following recent changes that have reshaped investment thresholds and eligibility criteria. New data suggests it also contributes to the expansion of the housing stock at a critical moment for the Greek economy. Under the new framework, investors may […]

Athens’ expanding Metro network is increasingly shaping the city’s real estate landscape, creating new opportunities for investors.

Varnavas Law Firm has been featured prominently in major international media outlets over the past several days, reflecting its growing role in cross-border investment advisory and its thought leadership in the Greek real estate sector. Managing Partner Alexander Varnavas was cited in news articles published on Google News, the Associated Press, and the National Law […]

Greece’s short-term rentals (STRs) market is changing for all property owners as part of government plans to tackle the housing crisis and boost the number of homes available for long-term rent. With the number of properties in the country offered on platforms such as Airbnb exceeding the 200,000 mark, controls on STRs are seen as […]

Investment migration laws are often complicated. Meeting requirements on investment thresholds, age restrictions, and biometric data in a foreign country can be a daunting task but not when you have the right help. At Varnavas Law Firm, our specialised Golden Visa Desk supports the needs of global investors from start to finish, while also advising […]

Greece’s real estate market is expected to show continued strength in 2026, though buying momentum will vary depending on the area, with the sector entering a new phase of maturity. The latest data from the Bank of Greece, the country’s central bank, show that prices in the broader market jumped 7.7 percent in the third […]

Greece is forging ahead with a new wave of airport infrastructure investments, with Athens at the center of the transformation, strengthening the country’s position as an international travel and investment destination. The Athens International Airport (AIA), which started operating in 2001, is doubling its space in a 1.3-billion-euro investment. The national action plan also includes […]

The month of Christmas is here, and Athens is dressed in its festive attire. A multitude of events are taking place, with something for everybody. Christmas fairs, theatre productions and concerts are scheduled in the Greek capital. From illuminated parks and Christmas villages to major concerts and world-class performances, December brings an atmosphere of celebration […]

Greece’s Finance Ministry expects an uptick in revenues stemming from the real estate sector in 2026, indicating that the country’s property market will remain on an upward trajectory for the 12-month period. Strong local and international buying interest is fuelling demand for Greek property assets, where prices continue to advance. The latest price data published […]

Securing Greece’s Golden Visa is a multi-step process, but there are ways to speed up the procedure, helping save time and money. A pivotal step in the Greek Golden Visa process is the signing of a Power of Attorney (PoA), a legal instrument that authorizes a lawyer or law firm to handle most of the […]

After waiting for almost a year and a half, the long-awaited Ministerial Decision No. 214926/2025 was published late yesterday (11/11/2025) in the Government Gazette. The Migration Ministry has set out an updated list of supporting documents required for Golden Visa applicants investing in real estate, based on the latest changes made to the program. This Decision provides crucial clarifications regarding […]

Success in asset management isn’t just about choosing the right investments – it’s about understanding the bigger picture: risk, timing, and long-term strategy. At Varnavas Law Firm, our Asset Management Team understands this and combines deep market insight with a client-first approach to help each portfolio reach its full potential. We go beyond helping non-EU […]

A key factor driving investor interest from foreign buyers in Greek real estate remains the affordability of homes. Real estate prices in the country may have recovered from the lows seen during the economic crisis but remain well behind levels seen in other European countries. Industry experts estimate that prices in Greece are roughly 20–30 […]

Non-EU nationals in possession of a Greek residence permit through Greece’s Golden Visa program fall into the category of nationals who are expected to be exempt from the new Entry/Exit System (EES). On its website, the European Commission outlines that the new rules do not affect those in possession of residence permits and long stay-visas […]

Managing Partner Alexander Varnavas was interviewed by Kathimerini’s English Edition on growing demand for Greek Golden Visa from US nationals and developments concerning the real estate market. Mr Varnavas shed light on what is drawing US investors to Greek assets, changing demand patterns, what they are buying and the benefits to the real economy. Below is an […]

The weather may be cooling in Athens, but that doesn’t mean the city is slowing down. In fact, Athens takes on a different kind of energy as the summer crowds disappear — one of creativity, flavor, and inspiration. The Greek capital offers a year-round mix of entertainment, cultural events, and sporting highlights that attract both […]

The list of advantages offered by the Greek Golden visa is a long one. Investors are largely familiar with the Greek program’s key benefits but there are several lesser-known details that are just as crucial when deciding on which European investment migration program to choose. Low property transfer tax For those looking to apply for […]

Night falls on the port of Piraeus, an area popular with Greece’s Golden Visa investors looking for opportunities. 

Changes to Greece’s residency for investment program provide an interesting mix of options.

Those acquiring Greek residency (Golden Visa via investment) have the opportunity to enrol their children in the education system and take advantage of the growing number of learning opportunities offered in the country. The country’s inclusive approach is reflected in the public education system, which is free (the state also provides the textbooks), with lessons […]

Residential property prices in Greece advanced more than 7% in the second quarter of the year, amidst signs of a fresh pick up in demand, particularly in the Athens area. The Greek real estate market has been one of the best performers in Europe in recent years. However, prices remain well below levels seen in […]

As part of Greece’s transition to a unified digital identification system, all citizens and legal residents will be assigned a Personal Number (Προσωπικός Αριθμός), which is a unique and permanent 12-character identifier. This number will gradually replace existing identifiers such as the AFM (Tax ID) and AMKA (Social Security Number). To view your assigned Personal […]

On April 29th, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled that Malta’s Citizenship-by-Investment program is not compatible with EU law, stating that Union citizenship “cannot result from a commercial transaction.” The decision emphasises that EU citizenship must reflect a genuine connection to a member state, not be granted solely on the basis of financial investment. […]

Greece’s Golden Visa program has seen a marked rise in interest from American investors in 2024, making Greece a popular choice for US citizens and expatriates. According to Greece’s Ministry of Immigration and Asylum, by August 2024, the country had issued 353 residency permits to American nationals. This amount showed a notable 47% increase from […]

Greece, long renowned for its rich educational heritage Higher education in ancient Greece was marked by a vibrant intellectual tradition that prioritized philosophy, critical thinking, and a broad curriculum, with institutions like Plato’s Academy (387 BCE) and Aristotle’s Lyceum (335 BCE) laying the foundation for philosophical and scientific inquiry. Other notable schools included the School […]

In September 2024, Greek Finance Minister Mr Kostis Hatzidakis announced a series of tax reforms and the continuation of certain exemptions into 2025. The bundle includes new measures aimed at enhancing economic stability, encouraging investment, and providing relief to taxpayers. Two extensions that concern Golden Visa investors: The suspension of the 15% capital gains tax […]

A residence permit in Greece is available to third-country nationals who invest a minimum of €250,000 in a Greek company registered on the Greek National Startup Registry (Elevate Greece). To obtain and maintain this residence permit, the following conditions must be met: Investment Criteria Job Creation Obligation Legal Entity Investments For investments made through a […]

In a significant update to the Golden Visa scheme, investors who have made a 10% deposit on a Greek property before August 31, 2024, are now granted an extended timeline to finalize their contracts. This extension aims to provide additional flexibility, ensuring that eligible applicants can complete their property agreements and apply under the previous […]

From September 1st, 2024, significant changes have been implemented to the options for obtaining the Greek Golden Visa, following an initial announcement made in April 2024 regarding the amendment of the law. These updates reflect Greece’s ongoing efforts to adapt its residency-by-investment program to current market conditions and enhance its appeal to foreign investors. Four […]

The Greek Golden Visa program is undergoing significant changes in relation to the financial investment thresholds set out in Law 5038/2024.  Effective March 31st, 2024, the following changes will take place: a) Capital contribution, in the amount of five hundred thousand (500,000) euros at least to a company which has its registered office or establishment in […]

What you need to know! The Non-Domicile (Non-Dom) Regime for Pensioners and Investors in Greece is a program introduced to attract foreign pensioners and investors to the country. These regimes offer favourable tax treatment to individuals who choose to establish their tax residency in Greece. Implemented in 2020, the initiative was specifically aimed at retirees […]

Golden Visa News On December 11th, 2023, a legislative proposal was submitted to the Greek Parliament. The proposal suggests extending the deadline for non-EU nationals who are applying for the Golden Visa program and have not yet completed their investments in the affected areas. The extension will apply to those who meet the previous threshold […]

How civil partnerships benefit same-sex Golden Visa investors. Explore legal options, rights, and opportunities for LGBT individuals in investor visa programs In 2015, the Greek government introduced civil partnerships for same-sex couples, which was a significant stride towards advancing LGBT rights in the country. These partnerships, which are also referred to as “cohabitation agreements” or […]

Exploring the Landscape of Education and International Schools in Greece One significant advantage of acquiring Greek residency (Golden Visa via Investment) is the opportunity to enrol your children in Greek education, whether it’s within the public or private sector. Preschool In Greece, the state’s interest in Kindergartens emerged in 1895 with age-related enrollment regulations. Aikaterini […]

On the 29th of March, the Hellenic Republic Parliament voted for extending the transitional/grace period in which a Golden Visa investor could invest in Athens at a minimum of 250k EUR. Now effective, a Golden Visa Investor has time until July 31st of 2023 to find a property and proceed with an investment at a […]

Article translated into English: Original Greek Article here The managing partner of Varnavas Law Firm, attorney Alexander Varnavas, refers to the “exceptionally good” course of the Golden Visa program. Varnavas specializes in investment immigration. Alexander Varnavas stresses that the doubling of the minimum investment threshold (from 250k EUR minimum to 500k EUR) should not apply […]

In September of this year, the Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced an increase in the minimum of the Greek Golden Visa scheme via real estate investment; back in 2013, the minimum was set at the launch of the program at 250k EUR. In which cases will the investors need 500k EUR? Based on unofficial […]

Please be aware of an email fraud involving persons posing as Varnavas Law Firm officers or claiming to represent the company or company group affiliates sent by the fake email address

The Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced at the 86th Thessaloniki International Exhibition, on Saturday the 10th of September, a price increase for the Greek Golden Visa program.

The World Economic Forum defines globalization as “the process by which people and goods move easily across borders.” To that regard, people travel across borders offering their labour, their investments and their ideas in markets that can provide opportunities unavailable in their home countries.

In the frame of the recent hosting of Varnavas Law Firm 1978 in the renowned online directory of The LEGAL 500, the firm’s Partner, Alexander Varnavas, gave an in-depth interview, analyzing the main elements that make VLF stand out, especially in the field of Investment Immigration and Real Estate Law.

The Digital Nomad Community has been expanding worldwide, governments have established programs to host more residents. The most well-known types of digital nomads include retired and financially independent people. Greece is introducing its own program through the recently passed Law 4825/2021

The Greek economy is thought to have declined by 9% in 2020, primarily due to the global and significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; in 2020, the Greek economy was struck by closed borders and a pandemic, and the main decrease in income came from limited or restricted tourism, a major sector for the country.

Every Investor in the Greek real estate market who has concluded a real estate purchase must proceed with a property registration process according to Greek law. At this stage, as a property owner, an investor will be asked to pay a certain amount, as follows:

Biosecurity measures and travel restrictions are in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, affecting the operation of public and private organisations in the European Union and around the world.

Post-Brexit and Golden Visa. Brexit has brought about significant changes to the lives of UK citizens. Possibly the most notable change is that they no longer can enjoy the freedom of movement, which applies to EU citizens, meaning, British citizens cannot live nor work in an EU Member State. The good news is that in […]