The Greece Golden Visa Process, Step by Step

You may be hearing about the Golden Visa for the first time — that’s fine. Below we explain the whole process step by step, as if to someone with no prior knowledge. The best part: almost the entire process can be handled remotely via power of attorney; you only need to visit Greece once (for fingerprints).

The essentials

One in-person step

You visit Greece just once, for biometrics (fingerprints). Everything else is remote.

The whole family

Spouse, children under 21 and parents (under conditions) are included in a single investment.

5 years + renewal

Residency is valid for 5 years and renews indefinitely while you hold the investment.

Timeline

Usually 4–6 months. Under 2026 rules, authorities must decide within 90 days of submission.

The Process in 9 Steps

Free consultation & eligibility

From home

We discuss your budget, goals and family situation, and together determine the right investment threshold (€250,000 / €400,000 / €800,000) and area for you.

Project & apartment selection

From home / online

We show you apartments we have seen and stand behind, and choose the best fit for your budget together.

Power of attorney & tax number (AFM)

From home

You grant power of attorney to our lawyer in Greece, so most steps happen without you travelling. The lawyer obtains your Greek tax number (AFM).

Greek bank account

Remote

A Greek bank account is opened so the investment funds can be transferred transparently (usually remotely, via PoA).

Legal due diligence

Lawyer handles

The lawyer carefully checks the property’s title, zoning and any debts. If there is no risk, we proceed. This step protects you from bad surprises.

Purchase & title transfer

Possible via PoA

The purchase is completed before a notary; funds are transferred and the deed is registered at the Land Registry. The home is now yours.

Application & “Blue Paper”

Lawyer handles

The lawyer submits the residency application to the Ministry of Migration. You immediately receive a temporary certificate (the “Blue Paper”) allowing free entry to Greece.

Biometrics (the one in-person step)

In Greece (once)

You and your family visit Greece once within 6 months to give fingerprints and a photo. This is the only step that requires being physically present.

Residence card issuance

Tracked remotely

After approval, the cards are usually issued within 2–4 months. The card is valid for 5 years and renews while you keep the investment.

Timeline & Costs (Approximate)

Beyond the investment there are some official and service costs. We work out the exact figure transparently, based on your chosen project.

Investment amountFrom €250,000 to €800,000 depending on the region

Government filing feeMain applicant €2,000 + €1,000 per dependent

Deed & transaction costsRoughly 5–7% of the purchase price (transfer tax, notary, lawyer, etc.)

Total timelineUsually 4–6 months (6–9 months in busy periods)

Common Terms

AFM

Greek tax number. Required for all official transactions; your lawyer obtains it via power of attorney.

Power of Attorney (PoA)

A document authorising your lawyer to act on your behalf. It lets the process run remotely.

Blue Paper

A temporary residence certificate issued after application; it grants entry to Greece until the card is ready.

Due Diligence

Legal verification of the property (title, zoning, debt checks).

Not sure where to start?

Let’s take the first step together. In a free consultation we assess your situation and clearly explain the best path for you.

Free Consultation

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