RESIDENCY PROGRAMS
Golden Visa: Greece & Italy
Accurate and up-to-date information on the two programs our clients ask about most. No false promises, no fine print.
GREECE
Greece Golden Visa
The Greece Golden Visa grants European residency through real estate investment. In 2026 there are three tiers based on location and property type:
High-demand zones
Athens metropolitan area, Thessaloniki metropolitan area, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with more than 3,100 inhabitants. Single property of at least 120 m².
Rest of the country
All other regions of Greece. Single property of at least 120 m².
Special cases
Only for the conversion of a commercial space into a residence (completed before application) or for the restoration of a protected or heritage building.
PROGRAM CONDITIONS
- 5-year residence permit, renewable indefinitely
- No minimum stay in Greece required to maintain residency
- Includes family: spouse, children up to 21, and parents of both spouses
- Free movement across the 26 Schengen Area countries
- Path to Greek citizenship and European passport after 7 years
- The property cannot be used for short-term rentals such as Airbnb
ITALY
Italy Investor Visa
Italy does not offer a Golden Visa through property purchase. Buying a property in Italy does NOT grant residency. We prefer to state this with complete clarity, even if others present it confusingly, because transparency is the foundation of our advisory.
What exists in Italy is an investor visa, with four investment routes:
Innovative startup
Investment in an Italian startup recognized as innovative by the Ministry of Enterprises.
Italian company
Investment in an Italian company incorporated and operating in the country.
Philanthropic donation
Donation to a public interest project in culture, education, research, or immigration.
Government bonds
Purchase of Italian government bonds (public debt securities).
COMPARISON
Greece vs. Italy
A side-by-side view so you can evaluate which program best fits your objectives.
| CRITERIA | GREECE | ITALY |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum investment amount | €250,000 (special cases) / €400,000 / €800,000 | €250,000 (startup) / €500,000 (company) / €1,000,000 (philanthropy) / €2,000,000 (bonds) |
| Does property purchase apply? | Yes — it is the main route of the program | No — property purchase does not grant residency |
| Permit duration | 5 years, renewable | 2 years, renewable |
| Minimum stay required | None | No minimum stay required |
| Includes family | Yes — spouse, children up to 21, and parents of both spouses | Yes — spouse and minor children |
| Path to citizenship | Yes — after 7 years of continuous legal residency | Yes — after 10 years of continuous legal residency |
Residency-by-investment programs may be modified at any time by legislative or regulatory decision. The information on this page reflects the program status at the date of publication and does not constitute legal advice. Each case must be validated with licensed professionals before making any investment decision.
Not sure which program fits your case?
Schedule a free call with our team. We analyze your profile and present the most suitable options for your goals.