Greece - New Residence Permit Rules for Foreigners

Greece — new conditions for obtaining and extending a residence permit from 2025

Greece is one of the most popular immigration destinations among Russians and residents of the CIS countries. The mild Mediterranean climate, rich history, excellent cuisine and friendly locals are just some of the reasons why many dream of obtaining a residence permit in this sunny country. However, from January 1, 2025, the rules of the game will change significantly, and those planning to move to Greece or extend their residence permit should prepare for the upcoming innovations in advance.

Important changes

1. The Golden Visa program is no longer a priority — the de facto curtailment of the popular Golden Visa program, which allowed you to obtain a residence permit through investment in Greek real estate. From 2025, this opportunity will remain only in regions with low demand for housing («zone C»), where the minimum investment amount will still be 250,000 euros. In more popular regions such as Athens, Thessaloniki and the islands of Mykonos and Santorini («zone A»), the minimum investment threshold will increase to 800,000 euros. In «zone B», which includes the rest of the country, to obtain a residence permit, you will need to invest from 400,000 to 500,000 euros in real estate. This decision by the Greek authorities is dictated by the desire to solve the problem of rising housing prices and the lack of affordable apartments and houses for the local population. In addition, the government intends to attract higher-quality investments that will contribute to the development of the country's economy.
2. New opportunities for businessmen and startups — instead of investing in real estate, Greece is focusing on attracting entrepreneurs willing to invest in local businesses and launch innovative startups. Thus, owners of shares in Greek companies with capital or share value from 500,000 euros will be able to apply for a residence permit. The same opportunity will be available to board members, legal representatives and administrators of local companies or branches of foreign companies whose assets or turnover amount to at least €4 million. In addition, Greece plans to introduce a special option for obtaining a “Golden Visa” through investments in start-ups, the details of which have not yet been disclosed.
3. Simplification of procedures for skilled professionals — good news also awaits those planning to move to Greece for hired work. From January 2025, the country will join the EU Blue Card program, which allows highly qualified professionals from third countries to live and work in the European Union. The procedure for obtaining a Blue Card will be simplified, and the application will be completely digital, eliminating the need for candidates to be present in person. In addition, individuals who already have a residence permit for top managers will be able to choose between obtaining an EU Blue Card, an intra-corporate transfer permit or a residence permit for a special purpose. This flexibility will allow foreign professionals to choose the option that suits them best.
4. The digitalization of the application process is another important innovation when applying for and renewing a residence permit. From 2025, all applications will be submitted through the official website of the Greek Ministry of Migration, and confirmations of the issuance of a residence permit will be sent to the applicants' email. In addition, candidates will receive an electronic certificate of application, which will be valid until a decision is made on issuing a residence permit. This approach will significantly simplify and speed up the procedure, freeing foreigners from paperwork and the need to personally visit migration services.

However, not all changes will be so rosy. Greece plans to tighten control over compliance with the conditions of stay in the country when renewing a residence permit.

1. Migration services will more carefully check how much time the applicant has spent outside of Greece and request additional evidence of his financial solvency. At the same time, the requirement to submit documents for renewal two months before the expiration of the current residence permit will remain in force. Therefore, foreigners planning to continue living in Greece should take care of collecting all the necessary certificates and extracts in advance.
2. In addition to investors and workers, the changes will also affect other categories of foreigners living in Greece. Thus, for financially independent individuals receiving a residence permit based on stable passive income, the monthly income bar may be raised.
3. Students will still be able to receive a residence permit for up to 6 years, including 1 year of a language course, 4 years of a bachelor's degree and 2 years of a master's degree. But for those who apply for a residence permit through family reunification, the requirements for confirming financial security may become stricter.

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Recommendations for those planning to move to Greece

If you have long dreamed of moving to Greece or already live there and plan to extend your residence permit after 2025, it is worth studying the upcoming changes in advance and preparing for them. Here are some tips to help you navigate the new rules:

1. If you have considered the possibility of obtaining a residence permit through real estate investment, consider whether you are ready to invest larger amounts in housing in popular areas of Greece. If not, take a closer look at properties in less popular areas or consider alternative immigration methods.
2. For entrepreneurs and investors, new opportunities are opening up related to investing in Greek businesses and startups. Explore these options and assess how they match your plans and capabilities.
3. If you are a highly qualified specialist, take a closer look at the EU Blue Card program. From 2025, it will be easier to obtain, and the application process will be completely digital.
4. Collect all the necessary documents for renewing your residence permit in advance and submit them no later than two months before the expiration of your current residence permit.
5. Follow the updates on the official website of the Greek Ministry of Migration and on information resources for immigrants. Do not hesitate to seek advice from immigration law specialists if you have any questions or difficulties.

To summarize, we note that the changes in the rules for obtaining and renewing a residence permit in Greece may seem frightening and inconvenient, especially for those who planned to move to this country through the purchase of real estate. However, do not despair — Greece is still interested in attracting foreign investors, entrepreneurs and professionals, it is just that the focus has shifted to higher quality and more beneficial investments for the economy. Changes in the rules for obtaining and renewing a residence permit in Greece are not an obstacle, but a new round in the development of the country and its relations with foreign citizens.

Therefore, if you have long been thinking about moving to Greece, now is the time to act. Learn the new rules, assess your capabilities and take the first step towards your dream. After all, Greece is not just a country, but a state of mind, and once you have been there, you will definitely want to stay forever.

So go for it, dream and believe in yourself — and then no change in the rules will be able to prevent you from realizing your dream of living in sunny and hospitable Greece. Good luck on this exciting path!