Can foreigners buy property in Greece?
Yes. Anyone can buy property in most of Greece. Buyers from outside the EU and EFTA need prior approval only in designated border areas, such as Evros, several Aegean islands and the Dodecanese.
Yes, you can buy in your own name. / Yes, with conditions.: Anywhere in Greece, with no approval needed.
Reciprocity
- There is no reciprocity test. The only distinction is the border-area approval for buyers from outside the EU and EFTA.
What foreigners cannot buy
- Property in designated border areas, for non-EU/EFTA buyers without prior approval (Law 1892/1990, Article 24)
Buying through a company
- Not needed for most purchases.
Confirm with a local lawyer
- Before you pay a deposit, ask your lawyer to confirm in writing whether the property is in a border area and which approval it needs.
This is a summary of the ownership rules, not legal advice. Rules change and depend on the property; confirm your case with a local lawyer before you buy.
Read the full Greece buying guide · Buying costs in Greece · Homes for sale in Greece
Questions about buying in Greece
Can foreigners buy property in Greece?
Yes. Anyone can buy in most of Greece. Non-EU buyers need prior approval only in designated border areas.
Can Americans and UK citizens buy property on Greek islands?
Yes, but some islands, such as Lesvos, Chios, Samos, the Dodecanese and Santorini, are designated border areas where non-EU buyers need prior approval.
Does buying property in Greece give residency?
Not on its own, but a qualifying purchase can support a Golden Visa application.