Greek citizenship can be acquired through descent, naturalization, or marriage. Citizenship by descent is the most common path for those with Greek heritage. Greece also allows dual citizenship, and Greek citizens are also citizens of the European Union, granting them the same rights as other EU citizens. A Greek passport is also powerful, offering visa-free access to 124 countries, making it a valuable travel document for global mobility.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about obtaining Greek citizenship, including:
- How Powerful is Greek Citizenship?
- Benefits of Greek Citizenship
- Four ways to obtain citizenship of Greece
- Acquiring Greek citizenship through the Greece Golden Visa
- How to Apply for Greek Citizenship
- Greece Citizenship Processing Time
- How much does Greek citizenship cost?
- Greece dual citizenship
- How to get a Greek passport
- Why work with a Greek Immigration Agency?
How Powerful is Greek Citizenship?
Greek citizenship offers strong global benefits, especially for those interested in travel, quality of life, and EU rights. According to the Global Citizen Solutions Global Passport Index, Greece ranks 42nd overall. This index stands out because it looks at more than just visa-free travel. It also considers the country’s quality of life and how friendly the investment environment is, giving a fuller picture of a passport’s real value.
With Greek citizenship, you can travel to over 180 countries visa-free or with a visa-on-arrival. You also gain full EU rights, meaning you can live, work, or study in any EU country. Greek citizens also have access to public healthcare, free education, and legal protections in Greece and through embassies abroad. You can own property and start a business without restrictions.
Greek citizenship gives anyone eligible through descent, marriage, or naturalization both European freedom and a high standard of living.
Benefits of Greek Citizenship
Becoming a Greek citizen comes with many important benefits. It gives you access to Greece’s rich culture, history, and strong social systems. As a citizen, you also become part of the European Union, which means more travel, work, and study opportunities. Greek citizenship is a great choice for those who want to be part of a lively and welcoming community.
- Access to public services: Greek citizens can vote in national and EU elections and access public healthcare, free education, and unemployment benefits as part of Greece’s social support system.
- Visa-free travel: With a Greek passport, you can travel to over 180 countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival. You also have the right to move, live, and work freely in any European Union country.
- EU rights: As an EU citizen, you can study, access healthcare, and work across all EU member states without needing extra permits or visas.
- Cultural connection: Citizenship offers a strong bond to Greece’s rich heritage, history, and traditions. You can participate in local festivals, cultural events, and national celebrations.
- Legal protection: Greek citizens receive full protection under Greek law and can get help from Greek embassies and consulates when abroad.
- Business and property rights: You can buy property, open a bank account, or start a business in Greece and across the EU without facing the restrictions placed on non-citizens.
Four Ways to Obtain Citizenship of Greece
1. Greek Citizenship by Birth
Greek citizenship is automatically granted to children born to at least one Greek parent. If the child is born in Greece, they generally acquire citizenship without issue. However, if the child is born abroad and also receives a foreign nationality at birth, the process may require additional steps. Greek law defines a Greek citizen as someone registered in a municipal record in Greece, so official registration is key.
Eligibility | Documents |
- Born to at least one Greek parent - Must be registered in a Greek municipal record - May not acquire another nationality at birth (in some cases) | - Parent's Greek birth certificate - Child's birth certificate - Proof of registration in the Greek municipal records - Proof of citizenship status (if needed) |
2. Greek Citizenship by Descent
Greek citizenship by descent applies to individuals with Greek ancestry. You can claim citizenship through your parents or grandparents if they were Greek citizens. If applying through a grandparent, they must be registered in a Greek municipality. You must also prove your family connection through official records.
Eligibility | Documents |
- Parent or grandparent is or was a Greek citizen - An ancestor is registered in the Greek municipal records - Able to prove family relationship through birth and marriage certificates | - Ancestor’s municipal registration - Your birth certificate - Parent’s birth and marriage certificates - Application submitted at a Greek Embassy or Civic Status Directorate |
3. Greek Citizenship by Naturalization
This path is for foreign nationals who have legally lived in Greece for several years. Applicants must show long-term residency, social integration, and knowledge of the Greek language and culture. Residency must be continuous, and absences are limited. You’ll also need to demonstrate financial stability and have no criminal record.
Eligibility | Documents |
- Must be over 18 - Legal residence in Greece for at least 7 years - Good character and clean criminal record - Proof of integration (language, culture, and -- social ties) | - Naturalization application form - Proof of legal residence (residence permit) - Valid passport - Birth certificate - Tax return (income statement) - Proof of no criminal record - Language and culture exam results or school certificates - Payment receipt for government fees |
4. Greek Citizenship by Marriage
Foreign spouses of Greek citizens can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage and residence in Greece. It’s not an automatic process, and applicants must show they meet residency, language, and legal requirements. Proficiency in Greek and a clean record are essential.
Eligibility | Documents |
- Legally married to a Greek citizen for at least 3 years - Lived in Greece for at least 3 years - Clean criminal record - Basic knowledge of the Greek language | - Marriage certificate - Proof of residence in Greece - Certificate of Greek language proficiency - Clean criminal record certificate - Identity documents and supporting paperwork |
Acquiring Greek Citizenship Through the Greece Golden Visa
The Greece Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU citizens to live in Greece by making a qualifying investment. While it does not offer direct citizenship, it provides a path to citizenship through naturalization after maintaining legal residency in Greece for seven years.
To apply for Greek citizenship through the Golden Visa, investors must meet the naturalization requirements, including continuous residence, integration into Greek society, language proficiency, and a clean criminal record.
You can also get a Greek Golden Visa through these investment options:
Real Estate Investment Options
- Tier 1 – €800,000: Areas: Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with over 3,100 residents. Requirement: One property of at least 120 square meters
- Tier 2 – €400,000: Areas: All other regions of Greece. Requirement: One property of at least 120 square meters
- Tier 3 – €250,000: Properties converted from commercial to residential use. No size or location limit. Conversion must be completed before applying.
- Tier 4 – €250,000. Properties of historical or cultural significance. Must be fully restored or reconstructed by the investor
Important: Short-term rentals are not allowed for Golden Visa properties. Violations may lead to a €50,000 fine and cancellation of your visa.
Other Investment Options
- Capital contribution of €500,000 in a company based or operating in Greece (not real estate funds)
- €500,000 in a Greek real estate investment company (via capital increase)
- €500,000 in an investment fund that invests only in Greek companies
- €800,000 in shares or corporate bonds listed on Greek stock markets
- €500,000 in Greek government bonds, with at least 3 years maturity
- €350,000 in mutual funds that invest in Greek stocks, bonds, or government securities
- €350,000 in alternative investment funds focused on Greek property
- €500,000 fixed deposit in a Greek bank for at least 1 year, with automatic renewal
How to Apply for Greek Citizenship
- Determine your eligibility: Identify the correct path (birth, descent, naturalization, marriage, or Golden Visa route).
- Gather required documents: These vary by route but often include birth certificates, proof of residence, and municipal records.
- Submit your application: Depending on the route, apply either at the local Municipality Office, Decentralized Administration, or a Greek Embassy or Consulate abroad.
- Pay the required fee: Fees range from €100 to €700 depending on your application type.
- Await examination: Greek authorities will review your documents and may request additional proof.
- Attend an interview or test (for naturalization): This includes questions about Greek language, culture, and history.
- Receive decision: If approved, your name will be published in the Government Gazette, confirming your Greek citizenship.
- Apply for a Greek passport and ID after citizenship is granted.
Take a look at our Greece Golden Visa Ultimate Guide by local experts.
Greece Citizenship Processing Time
This is the average processing time for Greek citizenship, depending on the route of application:
Citizenship Route | Estimated Processing Time |
By Descent or Birth | 6 to 24 months |
By Naturalization | 2 to 3 years after applying |
By Marriage | 1.5 to 3 years |
Via Golden Visa | Golden Visa: 2–6 months Citizenship: 7+ years residence + 2–3 years processing |
How much does Greek citizenship cost?
The cost of citizenship depends on the citizenship route taken, here is a general overview of how much Greek Citizenship costs.
By Descent (Ancestry)
- Application fee: approx. €100 via consulate or municipality.
- Signature authentication: €10 (EU applicants) or €30 (non‑EU applicants) per document.
- Document translation and legalization: typically €20–50 per document.
- Total estimate: €300 – €1,000, depending on required documents and services.
2. By Naturalization
- Application fee: around €550 (some sources suggest up to €700).
- Language & civic test: €250 (test) + €550 (interview fee) = €800 total.
- Translations / apostilles: €20–70 per document.
- Additional costs: optional legal assistance, language courses.
- Estimated total: €1,000–€2,000+ depending on translation and service costs.
3. By Marriage
Uses the naturalization track; same fees apply:
- Application: ~€550
- Test (if required): €800
- Document preparation: €20–70 per document
Greece Dual Citizenship
You can get Greek dual citizenship. That means you can have Greek citizenship alongside one other nationality without the need to renounce it. Dual citizenship with Greece allows you to maintain all the benefits of Greek citizenship and one more citizenship. It’s important to note you hold rights, and privileges in both countries, but also you have to uphold your citizenship duties in both countries.
Almost all European Union countries allow dual citizenship with Greece. On top of that, the most common dual citizenships with Greece are:
- United States
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- France
- Italy
- Germany
- Spain
- Ireland
- South Africa
- Brazil
- Israel
It’s important to note that countries like China and Japan don’t support Greek dual citizenship, and you have to renounce your previous citizenship.
How to Get a Greek Passport
Once you acquire Greek citizenship, you can apply for a Greek passport. This will afford you all the rights and privileges that come with traveling the globe on an EU document. Besides that, you can travel visa-free to 119 countries with a Greek passport.
When you meet the specific requirements tied to your situation, such as naturalization, birth, or descent, you need to complete a passport application form and send it off to the Greek consular authorities.
According to the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the application form must be filled out in Greek, you need to supply your Greek ID card and pay the administration fees. An adult passport costs €84.40 and is valid for ten years. The process takes a few weeks to complete.
Why work with a Greek Immigration Agency?
A Greek immigration agency or lawyer can make applying for citizenship or residency much easier. They understand the rules and know exactly what documents you need. They help with filling out forms, translating papers, and submitting everything correctly, which reduces mistakes and delays.
Their experience can save you time and stress, especially if you don’t speak Greek or aren’t familiar with the legal process. Whether you’re applying through ancestry, marriage, naturalization, or the Golden Visa, having professional support makes the process easier and gives you a better chance of success.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique investment migration consultancy firm focused on finding the right residency or citizenship by investment program for individuals wishing to secure their future and become global citizens. With offices in Portugal, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Brazil, our multilingual team guides individuals and families from start to finish, providing expert advice considering freedom, mobility, taxation, and security.
- We have helped hundreds of clients from 35+ countries in all the top residency by investment and citizenship by investment programs. With an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the area, we provide our clients with solid guidance.
- Our team has never had a case rejected. Our 100 percent approval rate sets us apart from our competitors and guarantees that you can expect a successful application.
- Our transparent pricing covers all the processes from opening your bank account, document certification, and legal due diligence to investment and submission. As there is one fee for the entire process, you can be confident that you will not face any hidden costs later.
- All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server. You can be safe knowing that your personal data is treated with the utmost security.
- Global Citizen Solutions provides an all-encompassing solution. Our support can continue even after you receive your passport. We offer additional services such as company incorporation, Trusts, and Foundations formation.
- The BeGlobal Onboarding System® allows you to access the status of your application every step of the way, something that sets us apart from our competitors.
Frequently Asked Questions about Greek Citizenship
Does Greece allow dual and multiple citizenships?
Yes, Greece allows its nationals to have dual citizenship. However, you must check whether your home country’s laws allow citizens to obtain citizenship from another country. With Greek dual citizenship, you are able to explore the world more broadly than before.
Does Greece have compulsory military service?
According to the Foreign Ministry, all male Greek citizens, aged between 19 and 45, are required to serve in the Armed Forces. This means that you’ll have to report for military service when you become a citizen. However, Greeks can avoid this by postponement.
Is the Greek language difficult?
The Greek alphabet is vastly different from Latin characters, and it’s difficult for Westerners to get a handle on it. The spoken language is easier to pick up, but if you practice every day, surround yourself with ethnic Greeks, and possibly go for lessons, it should be less of a struggle.
What is the process for applying for Greek citizenship and what are the key requirements?
To start applying for Greek citizenship, fill out the application form available at local Greek municipal offices or consulates. The requirements for Greek citizenship typically include proof of Greek heritage, residency, language proficiency, and a clean criminal record. After submitting the Greek citizenship application form, expect a review period where additional documents might be requested. For detailed guidance, consult the Greek embassy or a legal expert in Greek citizenship.
How long does the process of obtaining Greek citizenship take?
The process of obtaining Greek citizenship typically takes between 1.5 to 3 years for most applicants. Citizenship by descent usually takes 6 to 24 months, while naturalization after residency can take 2 to 3 years or longer due to language tests and background checks. Processing times can vary based on the application type and local administrative workload.
How do you qualify for Greek citizenship?
You can qualify for Greek citizenship by birth, descent, naturalization, marriage, and Golden Visa. Each type of citizenship has unique requirements you need to meet and paperwork you need to turn in. Once you complete the process, you’ll officially become a Greek citizen.
How does Greek citizenship affect my tax obligations?
When you obtain Greek citizenship, you’re required to pay taxes based on your personal income, if you buy a property, spend more than 183 days in Greece, have business in Greece, or acquire an asset.
Is there a residency requirement for obtaining Greek citizenship?
If you want to obtain Greek citizenship and you don’t have any Greek ancestry or a spouse, you need to live in the country for at least seven years. After that period, you need to apply for the Greek Citizenship Exam to the Greek authorities and pass the exam.
Can Greek Citizenship be revoked?
Yes, Greek citizenship can be revoked or stripped under specific circumstances, as per Greek law. These include providing false information or using fraudulent means to obtain Greek citizenship, involvement in terrorism, espionage, or activities threatening national security.
