Six Ways a Greece Golden Visa Lawyer Can Help you

1. Assessing your eligibility

A Greece Golden Visa lawyer will carefully review your investment plan, usually a real estate purchase of at least €250,000, to make sure it meets all the visa rules. They will check your financial situation to see if you meet the investment amount and guide you on the right Greece Golden Visa properties and locations that qualify for the visa.

The lawyer will also explain how you can include your family members, such as your spouse, children under 21, and dependent parents, in your application so they can get residency too.

2. Document preparation

The application requires a variety of legal and financial documents. A Greece Golden Visa lawyer will help you:

Gather and prepare essential paperwork such as proof of investment, valid passports, financial records, health insurance, and criminal record certificates.
Ensure documents are properly translated into Greek and certified as per legal standards.
Verify the accuracy and completeness of all paperwork to avoid delays or rejections.

3. Property purchase assistance

Since real estate investment is the most common way to get the Greece Golden Visa, a lawyer plays an important role in making sure your property purchase is safe and legal. They will check the property’s legal status to ensure it has no debts, disputes, or other issues.

The lawyer will also prepare and review the purchase contracts to protect your interests. They help with registering the property and make sure everything follows Greek real estate laws. Additionally, they will manage the payment process and ensure that the €250,000 minimum investment is correctly handled.

4. Application submission

A lawyer ensures that your Golden Visa application is accurately prepared and submitted by:

Completing all forms according to the requirements of the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum.
Coordinating with public notaries, real estate agents, and immigration authorities.
Handling appointments for biometric data collection is a required part of the application process.
Providing real-time updates on the progress of your application.

5. Appealing rejections

If your Greece Golden Visa application is rejected, a lawyer can help you fix the problem. They will review the reasons for the denial and find any issues that can be corrected. The lawyer will then prepare a strong appeal and represent you in front of the Greek authorities. They will also advise you on any extra requirements needed to strengthen your resubmission and improve your chances of approval.

6. Ongoing legal support

The relationship with a lawyer doesn’t end after the initial approval. They provide long-term support by:

Assisting with renewals of the Golden Visa, which occur every five years, provided the investment is maintained.
Advising on how to meet residency requirements for future permanent residency or citizenship applications (after seven years of residence).
Offering guidance on Greek tax obligations, estate planning, and other legal matters related to living or investing in Greece.

Benefits of Working with an Immigrations Lawyer

Avoid mistakes: A lawyer ensures your application is correct, saving you time and money by preventing errors that could cause delays or rejections.

Legal expertise: They provide professional knowledge of Greek immigration laws, helping you navigate the rules and requirements with ease.

Peace of mind: A lawyer manages the process, reducing stress and allowing you to focus on other priorities while they handle the legal aspects.

Risk minimization: Lawyers conduct thorough checks on property investments and ensure everything complies with Greek law, protecting your interests.

Higher success rate: With their guidance, you increase your chances of a successful application, making the process smoother and more efficient.

Greece Golden Visa Overview

The Greece Golden Visa program is a residency-by-investment scheme that allows non-EU citizens to obtain a residence permit in Greece by making an eligible investment. The most common investment is purchasing property worth at least €250,000, but other options include investing in businesses or government bonds.

The visa grants the right to live in Greece and travel within the Schengen Area. Key benefits include the ability to include family members, no minimum stay requirement, and the potential to apply for Greek citizenship after seven years of residency.

Investment options

Real estate: Purchase property in Greece worth at least €250,000.
Capital contribution: Invest €500,000 in a Greek company, real estate investment company, or closed-end mutual fund focused on Greece.
Shares, bonds, or funds: Invest €800,000 in shares or corporate bonds listed in Greece, or €500,000 in Greek government bonds with a 3-year maturity or €350,000 in funds focused on Greek investments.
Capital transfer: Deposit €500,000 in a Greek bank for at least one year with automatic renewal.

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Benefits of the Greek Golden Visa

Residency in Greece: Live in Greece and have access to good quality healthcare and education.
Schengen travel: Travel freely across 27 Schengen countries without additional visas.
Family inclusion: Include your spouse, children under 21, and dependent parents in the visa.
No minimum stay: No need to live in Greece full-time to maintain the visa.
Path to citizenship: Apply for Greek citizenship after 7 years of residency.
Renewable permit: The residence permit is valid for 5 years and can be renewed as long as the investment is maintained.
Property investment returns: Opportunity to rent out or resell the property after purchase.

Steps to Getting Greek Residency Through Investment

Hire a Lawyer: Engage a Greek Golden Visa lawyer to guide you through the process legally and securely.
Obtain a Greek Tax Number (AFM): You must apply for a tax identification number, which is required for all property purchases.
Open a Greek bank account: This is needed to transfer funds and pay property-related taxes and fees.
Choose an investment option: Work with your lawyer to select a qualifying investment. This could include purchasing real estate worth at least €250,000, investing in Greek government bonds, or placing funds in a Greek bank.
Apply for the Golden Visa: Submit your residency application with proof of investment. Your lawyer helps prepare and file the application.
Receive Your Greek Residence Permit: In 2025, Greece reduced its Golden Visa backlog and improved processing times from an average of 18 months to just three months. Once approved, you’ll receive a 5-year renewable residence permit, with no requirement to live in Greece.
Maintain Your Investment: Keep ownership of the property to retain residency. After 7 years of legal residency, you may become eligible to apply for Greek citizenship.

What key areas can a Greece Golden Visa lawyer help with?

When applying for the Greece Golden Visa, legal processes related to property acquisition and visa application must be handled with care. A qualified Greece Golden Visa lawyer provides legal expertise to navigate these procedures which include verifying property ownership and ensuring compliance with Greek real estate laws and assisting with visa applications and appeals.

Here is an overview of the role a lawyer will play in the real estate investment and the application process:

Greece Golden Visa through real estate investment

These are the key steps and costs of obtaining a Greek Golden Visa through real estate, as well as a Greek Golden Visa lawyer’s role at each stage:

Step/cost	Details	Lawyers area of assistance
Taxes and Budget Planning	This step includes taxes and fees which are mostly paid by the buyer and vary depending on the property’s region. Provides a detailed cost estimate and advises on regional tax implications.	The lawyer provides a detailed cost estimate and advises on regional tax implications.
Property Transfer Tax	Around 3% of the property’s value.	Calculates the amount due and ensures timely payment.
Notary & Registration Fees	Around 1% to 2.5%, covering notary services, deed, and land registry costs.	Coordinates with the notary and ensures accurate land registry filing.
Contract Review and Legal Fees	Typically 1% to 2%, including VAT.	Covers legal support, contract reviews, and due diligence. The lawyer will also review and negotiate purchase agreements to protect your interests, ensuring they comply with Greek property laws.
Get an AFM Number	Apply for a Greek tax ID number (AFM) through the local tax office.	Prepares and submits your application to obtain the AFM.
Find a Property	Search with trusted real estate professionals or online platforms.	Verifies listings, conducts legal checks, and ensures the property has no issues.
Letter of Intent & Reservation	Submit a Letter of Intent and reserve the property.	Drafts and reviews the Letter of Intent and reservation agreement; negotiates terms.
Pay Taxes & Register	Pay transfer tax or VAT, and register the purchase with the Land Registry.	Ensures all taxes are paid and the property is correctly registered in your name.

Greece Golden Visa lawyer’s role in the visa process

Area of Assistance	Key Legal Steps
Visa Application	- Drafting Power of Attorney (PoA) to represent you in Greece. - Legalizing and translating documents to meet Greek standards. - Submitting the application to the Greek Immigration Office and liaising with authorities.
Family Eligibility	- Verifying family documentation (marriage/birth certificates). - Advising on dependent criteria for spouses, children under 21, and parents. - Filing additional forms for family inclusion.
Appeals	- Reviewing rejection reasons and drafting appeal petitions. - Representing you before Greek authorities during the appeal process.
Permanent Residency & Citizenship Transition	- Guiding through the transition from residency to permanent residency or Greek citizenship after seven years. - Advising on tax obligations and legal requirements. - Preparing for any language or cultural tests if needed.

Greece Golden Visa Legal fees

Hiring an immigration lawyer for the Greece Golden Visa usually costs between €5,000 and €15,000, depending on how complicated a person’s case is and the services they may need. This covers legal help with property checks, contract review, visa applications, and appeals. There are also other costs for the visa and property purchase.

The table below shows the main legal and related expenses to keep in mind:

Fee Type		Amount
Application Fees	Main applicant	€2,000
Application Fees	Each family member (children under 18 exempt)	€150
Residence Permit Processing Fee		€16 per person
Additional Costs	Legal and notary fees	Typically 8–10% of the total investment
Real Estate Purchase Fees	Property Transfer Tax	Approximately 3.09% of the property's value
	Notary Public Fees	1% to 1.5% of the property's value
	Land Registry Fee	Approximately 0.6% to 0.8% of the property's value

Greece Golden Visa Taxes

A Greece Golden Visa grants you residency but does not automatically make you a tax resident. You are only liable to pay tax in Greece if you spend more than 183 days there in a calendar year or if Greece becomes your main center of economic or personal interests. In that case, you become a tax resident and are taxed on your worldwide income. However, if you stay less than 183 days per year and do not earn income from Greece, you are not subject to Greek income tax.

Regardless of tax residency status, Golden Visa holders who own property in Greece must pay annual property tax (ENFIA), and rental income from Greek property is subject to local income tax. Capital gains tax of 15% applies if you sell a property within five years of purchase. Similarly, gains from the sale of shares are taxed at 15%, and dividends are taxed at 5%. Greece also has double taxation treaties with many countries to help prevent being taxed twice on the same income.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.

Frequently Asked Questions about Greece Golden Visa lawyer

Why should I hire a lawyer for the Greece Golden Visa?

A lawyer ensures that your property purchase and visa application meet all legal requirements. They help with contract review, document preparation, and represent you in case of appeals, minimizing the risk of delays or rejections.

What is the role of a lawyer in the real estate process for the Golden Visa?

A lawyer helps verify that the property is free of legal issues, handles contracts, and ensures compliance with Greek property laws. They also assist with the property registration and payment procedures.

How does a lawyer help with the Golden Visa application?

A lawyer prepares and submits the Golden Visa application, ensuring all documents are accurate and meet the legal requirements. They also help with family eligibility and ensure compliance with visa renewal requirements.

Can a lawyer assist if my Golden Visa application is rejected?

Yes, a lawyer can analyze the reasons for rejection, prepare an appeal, and represent you before the authorities to resolve any issues and increase your chances of approval.

How can a lawyer help with transitioning to citizenship?

A lawyer can guide you through the process of applying for Greek citizenship after your Golden Visa residency, including understanding tax obligations, language requirements, and other legal aspects.

What services does a Greece Golden Visa lawyer provide?

A Greece Golden Visa lawyer helps you choose the correct investment route, meets all legal requirements, and handles the residency application process. They conduct property due diligence, draft contracts, manage paperwork, and represent you before Greek authorities. They also assist with tax registration and long-term compliance.

What experience should a good Greece Golden Visa lawyer have?

A good lawyer for Golden Visa Greece should have strong experience in real estate transactions, immigration law, and investment regulations. Your Golden Visa Greece lawyer should be skilled in handling property due diligence, visa applications, and Greek tax rules. Experience with international clients and fluency in English are also key.