Greek Golden Visa for Turkish Investors | Residency & Benefits

In recent years, the Greek Golden Visa program has emerged as a top choice for Turkish investors seeking stability, mobility, and long-term opportunities in Europe. With its low investment threshold, fast processing, and access to the Schengen Zone, Greece offers one of the most attractive residency-by-investment options on the continent.

🇬🇷 What is the Greek Golden Visa?

The Greek Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program launched in 2013. It allows non-EU citizens to gain a 5-year renewable residence permit by investing in Greek real estate. The minimum investment starts at just €250,000, one of the most affordable in Europe.

🇹🇷 Why Are Turkish Investors Interested?

Turkish interest in the Greek Golden Visa has grown steadily, with Turkey ranking second in total applicants after China. As of July 2021, 1,477 residence permits were granted to Turkish nationals and their families under this program.

Key drivers include:

• Political instability and economic uncertainty in Turkey

• Lira depreciation and financial volatility

• A desire for greater personal freedom, safety, and EU access

• Interest in educational opportunities for children in the EU

• Opportunities for business expansion or relocation

🔑 Key Benefits of the Greek Golden Visa for Turkish Investors

1. Visa-Free Travel in the Schengen Area
   Enjoy unrestricted travel across 26 Schengen countries with your Greek residence card.

2. Family Inclusion
   The program allows residence permits for your spouse, children (up to age 21), and both sets of parents.

3. No Minimum Stay Requirement
   Unlike many other residency programs, you’re not required to live in Greece to maintain your permit.

4. Pathway to EU Residency & Citizenship
   Long-term residents may apply for Greek citizenship after 7 years of legal residency.

5. Safe Investment
   Real estate in Greece is rebounding, especially in Athens, Thessaloniki, and island hotspots—making it both a lifestyle and investment play.

6. Fast Processing
   Residence permits are typically issued within 40–60 days from the time of investment.

7. Affordable Entry Point
   At €250,000, Greece remains one of the most affordable Golden Visa options in the EU.

🏘️ Where Are Turkish Investors Buying?

Turkish nationals often invest in:

• Athens and its suburbs for business or rental income

• Thessaloniki, due to its proximity to Turkey

• Popular islands like Crete or Rhodes for vacation homes

• Student housing for children studying in Greece

📊 The Numbers: Turkish Golden Visa Applicants

As of mid-2021, Greece had issued:

• 541 main investor permits to Turkish nationals

• 1,477 total permits including family members

• Part of over €2 billion invested in Greek real estate via the program

🧭 The Application Process (Simplified)

1. Choose property and sign a pre-agreement

2. Open a Greek bank account and get a tax number

3. Pay the investment amount and legal fees

4. Submit your Golden Visa application

5. Receive residence permit within 2 months

🌍 Final Thoughts

With its geographic proximity, cultural familiarity, and EU advantages, Greece offers Turkish investors a practical and strategic path to European residency. Whether for personal security, family planning, or financial diversification, the Greek Golden Visa stands out as one of the smartest investments Turkish citizens can make today.

Looking to invest in Greece and secure EU residency? Contact our experts today and start your Golden Visa journey

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