Residence permit in Greece

Obtaining a residence permit in Greece allows eligible non-EU citizens to live in the country on a long-term basis, provided they meet the requirements of Greek immigration law. Greece also attracts international property buyers with its Mediterranean lifestyle, beautiful coastline and opportunities for real estate investment.

Depending on their circumstances and the purpose of their stay, foreign nationals may apply for different types of residence permits, including those available to property investors, financially independent individuals, entrepreneurs and eligible family members.

Greek Residence Permit Legislation

The main legal framework governing the entry and residence of third-country nationals in Greece is the Greek Migration Code, Law 5038/2023, as subsequently amended.

Eligibility, required documentation, residence permit duration and renewal conditions depend on the specific permit category and the applicant’s individual circumstances.

Main Ways to Obtain a Residence Permit in Greece

1. Greece Golden Visa — Residence Permit Through Property Investment

The Greek Golden Visa programme allows eligible non-EU nationals to apply for a five-year renewable residence permit through qualifying real estate investments.

Under the standard property investment rules, the minimum investment thresholds are:

• €400,000 — for properties in Halkidiki and most other regions of Greece.
• €800,000 — for properties in Attica, the Thessaloniki regional unit, Mykonos, Santorini and islands with a population exceeding 3,100 residents.

Standard qualifying investments are subject to additional requirements, including the purchase of a single property with a minimum area of 120 square metres.

In certain legally defined cases, a reduced investment threshold of €250,000 may apply, including qualifying conversions of commercial properties into residential use, subject to specific conditions.

Golden Visa residence permits may be renewed provided the applicable legal requirements continue to be met.

2. Residence Permit for Financially Independent Persons

This residence permit category is intended for eligible non-EU nationals who have sufficient, stable and verifiable income from sources outside Greece to support themselves without taking up employment in the country.

Applicants must satisfy the financial, documentation, health insurance and other requirements applicable to this category.

3. Digital Nomad Visa in Greece

The Greece Digital Nomad Visa allows eligible non-EU citizens to live in Greece while working remotely for employers or clients based outside the country.

Applicants must generally demonstrate a minimum monthly net income of €3,500, with additional financial requirements for accompanying family members.

Purchasing property is not required for this visa. However, remote professionals who wish to settle in Halkidiki may choose to buy an apartment or house for their personal use.

Read more about the requirements and application process on our Digital Nomad Visa in Greece page.

Buying Property in Halkidiki, Greece

Dionisiou Real Estate specialises in property sales in Halkidiki, Northern Greece.

We assist international buyers in finding apartments, houses, villas and other properties according to their preferences, investment objectives and budget.

Our team can help you identify suitable properties, arrange viewings and coordinate with qualified legal professionals involved in the property purchase process.

Whether you are looking for a holiday home, a permanent residence or a property investment in Halkidiki, we are here to help you explore your options.

Contact Dionisiou Real Estate to discover available properties in Halkidiki.

Important Information

Purchasing property in Greece does not automatically guarantee the right to obtain a residence permit. Eligibility is determined by current Greek immigration legislation and the applicant’s individual circumstances.

This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Investment thresholds and residence permit requirements may change. Before making an investment or submitting an application, consult a qualified Greek immigration lawyer and verify the latest official requirements.