Greece

Greece Residency by Investment 2026 Guide to Mediterranean Mobility
Securing your future in Europe has evolved with the Greece Residency by Investment program, which now prioritizes urban regeneration and technological innovation. While many EU countries have closed their doors, Greece has introduced a strategic framework under Law 5100/2024 to attract global capital into high-growth sectors. At Henry Global Partners, we navigate these complex 2026 zoning laws to ensure your family’s transition to the Hellenic Republic is both legally sound and financially rewarding.
The New 2026 Investment Tiers for Greece Residency
Unlike the flat-rate structures of the past, the path to Greece residency is now divided into specific economic zones. To rank globally, it is crucial to understand that the “one-size-fits-all” approach is gone. The Greek government has implemented a tiered system to protect the local housing market while offering lucrative entry points for non-EU/EEA nationals through the Residency by Investment program:
- Premium Hotspots (€800,000): This includes Attica (Athens), Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with a population of over 3,100. Property here must be at least 120 square meters.
- Regional Growth Zones (€400,000): Covers the majority of mainland Greece and less densely populated islands, ideal for those seeking a lifestyle-driven investment.
- Incentivized Routes (€250,000): This is the most popular 2026 route, specifically for commercial-to-residential conversions and the restoration of historic heritage buildings.
Henry Global Partners assists investors in selecting the right zone that aligns with their Greece PR goals and wealth preservation strategies.


Specialized €250,000 Entry: Commercial-to-Residential Conversion
For many, the most effective way to meet Greece residency requirements at the lowest cost is through the conversion of commercial spaces into modern apartments. This unique 2026 provision allows you to buy former offices or warehouses in prime Athens locations for €250,000, provided the “change of use” is officially certified. Our legal team at Henry Global Partners manages the entire engineering certification process and your Greece residency by investment application, ensuring your asset is reclassified correctly before the Golden Visa application is filed.
Roadmap to Greece Permanent Residence and EU Citizenship
Achieving Greece permanent residence is a seamless process if you follow the 2026 digital filing protocols. Once your biometric data is captured, you receive a 5-year renewable permit. For those looking beyond residency and asking how to get a second passport for Greece, the naturalization path is clearly defined. After seven years of legal residence and demonstrating a genuine connection to Greek culture and language, you can apply for a full EU passport. This provides the ultimate level of Schengen mobility and global freedom for your descendants.


Beyond Real Estate: The 2026 Startup Golden Visa Route
A major differentiator for Greece in 2026 is the investment in innovation. By contributing €250,000 to a startup registered on the Elevate Greece platform, you can secure permanent residence in Greece while participating in the country’s booming tech sector. This route is designed for the modern entrepreneur who seeks asset diversification beyond traditional brick-and-mortar investments. Henry Global Partners provides the necessary due diligence on these startups, protecting your capital while accelerating your residency timeline.
Operational Excellence and Greece Residency Requirements
The 2026 Greece residency requirements are focused on transparency and the legal origin of funds. Every applicant must pass a rigorous due diligence check and provide a clean criminal record certificate. Furthermore, the property must be owned by the main applicant or through a 100% owned legal entity within the EU. At Henry Global Partners, we ensure that your Greek Tax Number (AFM), bank account setup, and property deeds are handled with the highest level of professional care, ensuring a 100% success rate in the 90-day processing window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use multiple properties to reach the €250,000 or €800,000 limit?
No, the 2026 rules (Law 5100/2024) require the investment to be in a single property unit. Aggregating smaller properties to reach the threshold is no longer permitted for the residency program.
Are short-term rentals (like Airbnb) allowed for Golden Visa properties?
Under the new regulations, properties purchased through the Golden Visa program cannot be used for short-term holiday rentals in certain high-density zones. Long-term residential leasing is still fully permitted and highly encouraged.
Does the €250,000 threshold include VAT and closing costs?
The €250,000 refers to the net purchase price stated on the contract. You should budget an additional 7–9% for transfer of taxes, notary fees, and legal registration.
Can I get a Greek passport without living in the country?
No. While you can maintain your permanent residence Greece with just one visit every five years, applying for citizenship requires physical presence (183 days per year) for a duration of seven years.
Why is Henry Global Partners the right choice for the 2026 Greece program?
With the introduction of complex zoning and conversion rules, generic firms often fail. Henry Global Partners offers specialized engineering and legal departments that focus specifically on the 2026 “Special Category” investments, ensuring your permit is never at risk.

