Can you get residency in Greece by buying property?

Answer a few quick questions and see straight away whether a property can support a residence permit in Greece.

Yes, through the Golden Visa: a single property worth at least €800,000 in Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini and islands with over 3,100 residents, €400,000 elsewhere, or €250,000 for a conversion or listed-building restoration. EU citizens do not need it.

Your result: You do not need a Golden Visa. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can live in Greece under EU free movement rules.

What the permit gives

  • A five-year residence permit, renewable while you keep the property.
  • No minimum time you must spend in Greece.
  • Visa-free travel in the Schengen area (up to 90 days in any 180).

What it does not give

  • The right to work in Greece.
  • Short-term letting of the property (under 60 days): banned since 31 March 2024, with a €50,000 fine and loss of the permit.

Conditions

  • One property: several smaller ones cannot be added together.
  • At least 120 m² for the €400,000 and €800,000 levels.
  • The full price paid; the property registered in your name.

Confirm with a lawyer

  • Which band a specific location falls into (sources disagree on parts of Crete).
  • Whether the €250,000 conversion route applies to the specific building.

Rules as of 2026-10-13. Not legal advice.

See homes in Greece · Greece buying guide · Buying costs in Greece · European residency by buying property

Questions about Greece residency by property

How much do I need to invest for a Greek Golden Visa?

€800,000 in Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini and islands with over 3,100 residents; €400,000 elsewhere; €250,000 for a commercial-to-residential conversion or a listed-building restoration, in any area.

Can I combine several properties?

No. The investment must be one property, and for the €400,000 and €800,000 levels it must be at least 120 m².

Can I rent out a Golden Visa property?

Not as a short-term let: since 31 March 2024, lettings under 60 days are banned for Golden Visa properties (Law 5100/2024), with a €50,000 fine and loss of the permit. Long-term renting is allowed.

Do EU citizens need a Golden Visa?

No. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can live in Greece under EU free movement rules.

Sources