Step-by-step process to apply for the Greek Golden Visa as an American
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 prospects.
Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you understand how the process works and what to expect.
Step 1: Greek Golden Visa Investment Requirements and Property Rules
Before starting your application, it’s essential to understand the qualifying investment criteria. The most common route is through real estate acquisition. The minimum investment may start at 250,000 euros, though regular thresholds are higher in high-demand areas like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini.
The investment must be completed before submitting your full application, so identifying the right property early is key.
Keep in mind that the Greek Golden Visa program became more advanced since the updated rules took effect in late 2025. While previously meeting the minimum investment threshold was usually sufficient, success now depends not just on the amount invested but on the legal classification of the property purchased.
Read what qualifies at the moment: Golden Visa Requirements | Varnavas Law Firm
Step 2: Engage your law firm and appoint your legal representative through a Power of Attorney.
This step can be completed in the United States in your state of residence, either before a local notary public or through a Greek consulate. Alternatively, it may be executed in Greece before a local Greek notary. The Power of Attorney grants your appointed legal representative the authority to act on your behalf throughout the process. Varnavas Law Firm will coordinate and facilitate this procedure for its clients, ensuring that all formalities are properly and efficiently completed.
Step 3: How to Get a Greek Tax Number (AFM) for Golden Visa Applications
To proceed with any financial transaction in Greece, you’ll need a Greek tax identification number, known as an AFM. This can be obtained through your legal representative with power of attorney.
The AFM is required for opening a bank account, purchasing property, and completing official filings. At Varnavas Law Firm, we can assist with this step to simplify the process for foreign applicants.
Step 4: Opening a Greek Bank Account as a U.S. Investor
Although not always mandatory in every case, having a Greek bank account is highly recommended and often necessary for completing your investment. This account will be used to transfer funds for the property purchase and demonstrate the legal origin of your investment capital.
Banks will require documentation such as your passport, proof of address, and financial information. Due diligence checks can take time, so it’s wise to begin this step early.
You can find a list of required documents here: Required Documents For Golden Visa | Varnavas Law Firm
Step 5: Buying Property in Greece for Golden Visa Eligibility
Once you engage your law firm and all initial preparations have been completed, you may proceed with selecting a property. This is a critical stage in the process, where professional guidance is essential. Comprehensive legal due diligence is conducted to ensure that the property is free from any encumbrances and fully complies with the requirements of the Golden Visa program.
After the property has been selected, the law firm undertakes preliminary due diligence, prepares the preliminary agreement, and arranges the deposit in accordance with applicable legal requirements. The firm then proceeds with the necessary steps leading toward the final contract, ensuring that all legal aspects are properly updated and in order.
Once all conditions have been satisfied, the law firm signs the relevant final contract on your behalf as your legal representative (proxy). The transaction must be completed in full, including the transfer of funds, before proceeding to the Golden Visa application.
Step 6: Required Documents for the Greek Golden Visa Application
The application requires a set of official documents, including: valid passport copies, proof of investment (property contracts, payment receipts), valid health insurance in Greece as required by law.
All government-issued documents must be properly legalized and translated into Greek. Working with experienced legal professionals helps ensure accuracy and avoids delays.
Step 7: Submitting Your Greek Golden Visa Application (Main investor and family members)
A) Once your documentation is ready, the application is submitted to the relevant Greek authorities.
B) At this stage, you will also provide biometric data, including fingerprints. The law firm will arrange a submission date with the investor.
Upon submission, you will receive a temporary residence permit, which allows you to stay in Greece legally while your application is being processed.
The program allows you to include direct family members under the same application. This typically covers your spouse, children under 21 with an extension until 24 years old, the parents and even the parents-in-law.
Each family member will receive their own residence permit, offering access to the same benefits, including visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.
Step 8: Processing Time and Receiving Your Greek Residence Permit
Processing times can vary but once approved, you will receive your residence permit card, valid for five years and renewable as long as you maintain your investment.
One of the key benefits of the Greek Golden Visa is that there is no minimum stay requirement. This means you are not obligated to live in Greece full-time to maintain your residency status.
Step 9: Golden Visa Renewal and Long-Term Residency Benefits in Greece
Your Golden Visa can be renewed every five years, provided you retain ownership of the qualifying investment. Over time, this residency may open pathways to long-term residence or even citizenship, subject to meeting additional criteria.
Living in Greece: The American Expat Community Advantage
Don’t forget the expat community.
Beyond the practical steps involved, one of the reassuring aspects for Americans considering relocation to Greece is the presence of a vibrant and steadily growing U.S. expatriate community.
Current estimates suggest that approximately 15,000 to 30,000 Americans reside across the country, with the largest concentrations in Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, and several of the more popular islands.
Athens, in particular, offers well-established international infrastructure, including the American Community Schools (ACS Athens), which is widely regarded as one of the leading American-style international schools in the Mediterranean region.
Read our education article here: Education opportunities and reforms for Golden Visa families | Varnavas Law | Golden Visa Greece
Please contact our team for any inquiries about the Greek Golden Visa and how you can start your process.
