Greece’s Golden Visa

One of the top reasons that Greece makes a lot of sense for expats is that it offers an easy, quick, and legal path to residency through its Golden Visa Program. This residence-by-investment visa is issued to non-EU citizens with significant contribution to the Greek economy. There are a few different investment options, but the one most expats go for is a property purchase worth at least 250,000 euros.

This gets you a property and a residence permit all in one and access to visa-free travel in the Schengen Area… The permit lasts five years and is renewable, so long as you hold onto to your property. Also, you can include family members in it, including your spouse and children up to 21 years old.

After seven years of continuous residence, you can apply for citizenship. The only requirements, aside from the financial one, are that you provide a medical certificate and police background check and have health insurance. Also, you can’t be employed in Greece under this visa, so it’s a good option if you’re only after retirement.

There’s no minimum time you need to spend in the country to maintain it, and the 250,000-euro investment can be split over multiple properties.

This gets you a life in Europe and access to the 25 other countries that make up the Schengen Area.

You can also get a residence permit through investment in specific activities or by making a capital contribution of at least 400,000 euros.