Greece Investment Visa
The Greece Investment Visa, also known as the Golden Visa, is an exceptional opportunity for foreign nationals seeking to establish a presence in one of Europe’s most attractive countries. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Greece not only offers an appealing lifestyle but also a stable and lucrative investment environment. By participating in this program, investors can gain long-term residency while contributing to the country’s economic growth. Below, we delve into the essential aspects of obtaining a Greece investment visa, including its legal framework, eligibility criteria, application process, and the numerous rights and benefits conferred upon successful applicants.
Overview of the Greece Investment Visa
Greece, a prominent country in the European Union, provides foreign nationals with the opportunity to obtain a long-term residence permit through its Investment Visa Programme, often referred to as the Golden Visa. This program is tailored to attract foreign investments that contribute to the nation’s economic development. This article explores the legal aspects of securing an investment visa to Greece, including requirements, application procedures, and the rights afforded to investors.
Legal Basis for Obtaining an Investment Visa
The investment visa to Greece is governed by the Migration Legislation and Law No. 4251/2014, which addresses investments and business establishment by foreign nationals. The primary goal of the program is to attract investments across various economic sectors, thereby fostering job creation and economic growth.
Eligibility for the Greece Investment Visa
Who Can Apply?
The investment visa to Greece is available to:
- Individual investors: Those wishing to invest in a new business or purchase an existing one.
- Property investors: Individuals interested in investing in real estate in Greece.
- Company executives: CEOs of international businesses seeking to expand their operations in Greece.
Basic Requirements for Obtaining an Investment Visa
To obtain an investment visa to Greece, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Minimum Investment Amount
The minimum investment required is €250,000. These funds may be allocated as follows:
- Real Estate: Purchasing residential or commercial property in Greece.
- Business: Investing in the creation of a new business or acquiring an existing company.
Legal Origin of Funds
Applicants must provide documentation proving the legality of their funds, which may include:
- Bank statements.
- Tax returns.
- Documents related to the sale of assets.
Business Plan (If Applicable)
For business investment projects, a comprehensive business plan is required, including:
- Description of the investment project.
- Financial forecasts.
- Management and marketing strategy.
Health and Safety
Applicants must undergo a medical examination and submit certificates confirming the absence of communicable diseases to protect public health.
Investment Visa Application Procedure
The application process for an investment visa consists of several key steps:
Document Collection
Prepare a complete package of documents, including:
- Valid passport.
- Completed visa application form.
- Documents confirming investment and legal origin of funds.
- Health insurance valid in Greece.
Submitting the Application
The application must be submitted to the Greek consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence. Applications can also be made through specialized agencies or law firms.
Application Review
The Greek migration authorities will evaluate the submitted documents. The review process can take from several weeks to a few months, depending on the case’s complexity.
Obtaining a Visa
Once approved, applicants receive a long-term visa allowing entry into Greece and a residence permit valid for up to five years, which is renewable.
Rights Granted to Investors
Investors who obtain an investment visa enjoy several rights that facilitate their integration into Greek society:
Right to Live and Work
Investors and their family members are granted legal residence in Greece, allowing them to manage businesses and work in the country.
Access to Healthcare
Investors and their families gain access to the Greek healthcare system.
Education for Children
Children of investors are entitled to free education in public schools and may enroll in higher education institutions.
Free Movement within Schengen Countries
An investment visa allows the investor and their family to travel freely within the Schengen area without requiring additional visas.
Benefits of the Greece Investment Visa
The investment visa, or Golden Visa, offers numerous advantages, simplifying the integration process into Greek society and opening new business opportunities. Key benefits include:
Right to Live and Work
By obtaining an investment visa, investors and their families can reside legally in Greece. This not only permits them to run a business but also to seek employment across various sectors, opening up a wide range of professional growth opportunities.
Access to the European Market
Greece is a member of the European Union, and obtaining an investment visa grants investors access to the single European market. This opens up new horizons for business, trade, and investment opportunities not only in Greece but also in other EU countries.
Quality of Life and Social Guarantees
Greece offers a high standard of living, access to quality health services, and education. Investors and their families are entitled to health insurance and access to the healthcare system, which is an important aspect of life in the country.
Education for Children
Children of investors are entitled to free education in Greek public schools, as well as the opportunity to enroll in universities. Greek educational institutions provide quality education, a significant advantage for families with children.
Attractive Tax System
Greece offers a competitive tax system for foreign investors, including various tax incentives and business benefits. This creates additional opportunities to optimize tax liabilities and increase business profitability.
Path to Citizenship
After five years of residence in Greece on the basis of an investment visa, investors can apply for citizenship. This opens up new rights such as participation in elections and access to full social guarantees.
Government Support
The Greek government actively supports foreign investors through various programs and initiatives, which may include access to grants, subsidies, and consultancy services to assist in the success of a business.
Who Can Get a Greece Investment Visa?
The Investment Visa to Greece, also known as the Golden Visa, offers foreign nationals the opportunity to legally reside and do business in the country in exchange for significant investment. The programme aims to attract investment and promote economic growth as well as job creation. This article discusses the categories of persons who may qualify for an investment visa to Greece, as well as the key requirements for applicants.
Categories of Applicants for the Greece Investment Visa
| Category | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Investors | Individual investors are those who intend to invest in the creation of a new business or the purchase of an existing business. |
|
| Real Estate Investors | Citizens who plan to invest in property in Greece may also apply for an investment visa. |
|
| Company Executives | Citizens managing international companies can apply for the investment visa if they plan to establish their business in Greece. |
|
The Greece Investment Visa is an excellent opportunity for foreign nationals to gain access to a desirable European country while enjoying numerous benefits, including the ability to live and work in Greece, access quality healthcare and education, and travel freely within the Schengen area. The process, while rigorous, is well-defined and provides a clear pathway for qualified investors. With its rich culture, favorable business environment, and strategic location in Europe, Greece remains a highly attractive destination for investors worldwide.
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Greece Investment Visa for Indian Nationals
Greece, known for its cultural heritage and strategic location in Europe, is attracting foreign investors, including Indian nationals, through its investment visa programme, also known as the Golden Visa. This programme provides the opportunity to legally reside and do business in the country in exchange for significant investment. This article discusses the main legal aspects of obtaining an investment visa to Greece for Indian nationals, including the requirements, application process, and the rights afforded to investors.
Legal Basis for Obtaining an Investment Visa
The investment visa to Greece is regulated by the Migration Legislation and Law No. 4251/2014, which deals with investments and doing business by foreign nationals. The main objective of the programme is to attract foreign investment in various sectors of the economy, thus contributing to economic growth and job creation.
Who Can Apply for an Investment Visa?
Indian nationals can apply for an investment visa if they are willing to make a significant investment in the Greek economy and meet the eligibility requirements. Applicants may include:
- Individual Investors: Individuals wishing to set up a new business or acquire an existing company.
- Property Investors: Citizens willing to invest in residential or commercial property in Greece.
- CEOs: Individuals running international businesses who want to expand their operations in Greece.
Basic Requirements for Obtaining an Investment Visa for Indian Citizens
In order to successfully obtain an investment visa, the applicant must meet the following requirements:
Minimum Investment Amount
The minimum amount required to obtain an investment visa is €250,000. These funds can be invested in:
- Real Estate: Purchase of residential or commercial property.
- Business: Investing in the creation of a new business or the acquisition of an existing company.
Legal Origin of Funds
The applicant is obliged to provide documents confirming the legality of the origin of his/her funds. Such documents include:
- Bank statements.
- Tax returns.
- Documents on the sale of assets, if the investment funds were received as a result of their sale.
Active Participation in Management
If the investment is for the establishment of a business, the applicant must actively participate in its management by making key decisions.
Business Plan
The applicant must provide an itemised business plan that includes:
- Description of the investment project.
- Financial projections and calculation of expected profits.
- Planned number of jobs to be created.
- Business Development Strategy.
The business plan should show how the investment will have a positive impact on the Greek economy.
Medical Insurance
The applicant must have health insurance valid in Greece that covers basic medical expenses.
Certificate of No Criminal Record
The applicant must provide certificates of no criminal record from their country of residence and other countries where they have lived in the last 10 years.
Application Procedure for Indian Nationals
The process of applying for an investment visa involves several steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Collection of Documents |
The applicant must prepare a package of documents confirming willingness to invest in Greece and compliance with the conditions of the programme. These include:
|
| Submitting an Application |
The application is submitted to the Greek consulate or embassy in India. It is important to follow the consulate’s instructions and ensure that all documents are translated into Greek and authenticated. |
| Consideration of the Application |
The Greek migration authorities check the documents provided and may request additional information. This process may take several weeks to several months depending on the complexity of the case. |
| Obtaining a Visa |
Once the application is approved, the applicant receives a long-term visa which allows him/her to enter Greece and obtain a residence permit for up to 5 years, renewable. |
Rights Accorded to Indian Nationals on Investment Visa
Indian nationals who are granted an investment visa are afforded a number of rights:
Right to Live and Work
The investor and his family members have the right to reside in Greece for the duration of the residence permit. They can manage their business and work in the country.
Access to Health Care
Investors and their families gain access to Greece’s healthcare system.
Education for Children
Children of investors are entitled to free education in public schools in Greece.
Free Movement within Schengen Countries
An investment visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen area without the need for additional visas.
An investment visa to Greece for Indian nationals opens up many opportunities for doing business and integrating into the economic life of the country. Understanding all the requirements and the visa process will help investors to successfully realise their plans. It is advisable to seek the advice of professional lawyers specialising in migration law to ensure that the documents are properly prepared and all legal provisions are complied with.
Greece Investment Visa for Pakistani Nationals
Greece, with its unique cultural heritage and strategic position in Europe, is becoming increasingly attractive to foreign investors, including Pakistani nationals. The investment visa programme, known as the Golden Visa, allows foreigners to legally reside and do business in Greece in exchange for significant investment. This article examines the main legal aspects of obtaining an investment visa to Greece for Pakistani nationals, including the requirements, application process, and the rights afforded to investors.
Legal Basis for Obtaining an Investment Visa
The investment visa to Greece is regulated by the Migration Legislation and Law No. 4251/2014, which deals with investments and doing business by foreign nationals. The main objective of the programme is to attract foreign investment, which contributes to economic growth and job creation.
Who Can Apply for an Investment Visa?
Pakistani nationals can apply for an investment visa if they are willing to make a significant investment in the Greek economy and meet the eligibility requirements. Applicants may include:
- Individual Investors: Individuals wishing to set up a new business or acquire an existing company.
- Property Investors: Citizens willing to invest in residential or commercial property in Greece.
- CEOs: Individuals running international businesses who want to expand their operations in Greece.
Basic Requirements for Obtaining an Investment Visa for Pakistani Nationals
To successfully obtain an investment visa, the applicant must meet the following requirements:
Minimum Investment Amount
The minimum amount required to obtain an investment visa is €250,000. These funds can be invested in:
- Real Estate: Purchase of residential or commercial property in Greece.
- Business: Investing in the creation of a new business or the acquisition of an existing company.
Legal Origin of Funds
The applicant is required to provide documents that prove the legality of the origin of his or her funds. This may include:
- Bank statements.
- Tax returns.
- Asset sale documents.
Active Participation in Management
If the investment is for the establishment of a business, the applicant must actively participate in its management by making key decisions.
Business Plan
The applicant must provide a detailed business plan that includes:
- Description of the investment project.
- Financial projections and calculation of expected profits.
- Planned number of jobs to be created.
- Business Development Strategy.
Medical Insurance
The applicant must have health insurance valid in Greece that covers basic medical expenses.
Certificate of No Criminal Record
The applicant must provide certificates of no criminal record from their country of residence and other countries where they have lived in the last 10 years.
Application Procedure for Pakistani Nationals
The process of applying for an investment visa involves several steps:
Collection of Documents
The applicant must prepare a package of documents confirming willingness to invest in Greece and compliance with the conditions of the programme. These include:
- A valid passport (valid for at least six months from the date of application).
- Documents confirming investments (bank statements, contracts).
- Business plan.
- Confirmation of the legal origin of the funds.
Submitting an Application
The application is submitted to the Greek consulate or embassy in Pakistan. It is important to follow the consulate’s instructions and make sure that all documents are translated into Greek and authenticated.
Consideration of the Application
The Greek migration authorities check the documents provided and may request additional information. This process may take several weeks to several months depending on the complexity of the case.
Obtaining a Visa
Once the application is approved, the applicant receives a long-term visa which allows him/her to enter Greece and obtain a residence permit for up to 5 years, renewable.
Rights Granted to Pakistani Nationals on Investment Visa
Pakistani nationals who are granted an investment visa are afforded a number of rights:
Right to Live and Work
The investor and his family members have the right to reside in Greece for the duration of the residence permit. They can manage their business and work in the country.
Access to Health Care
Investors and their families gain access to Greece’s healthcare system.
Education for Children
Children of investors are entitled to free education in public schools in Greece.
Free Movement within Schengen Countries
An investment visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen area without the need for additional visas.
An investment visa to Greece for Pakistani nationals opens up many opportunities for doing business and integrating into the economic life of the country. Understanding all the requirements and the visa process will help investors to successfully realise their plans. It is advisable to seek advice from professional lawyers specialising in migration law to ensure that the documents are properly prepared and all legal provisions are complied with.
Greece Investment Visa for Nepalese Nationals
Greece, renowned for its rich history and strategic geographical location, is attracting foreign investors, particularly Nepalese nationals, through its investment visa program known as the Golden Visa. This program enables investors to legally reside and conduct business in Greece in exchange for a substantial investment. Below are the essential legal aspects of obtaining an investment visa to Greece for Nepalese nationals, including the requirements, application process, and rights afforded to investors.
Legal Framework for Investment Visa
The investment visa to Greece is governed by the Migration Legislation and Law No. 4251/2014, which regulates foreign investment and business activities. The primary objective of this program is to attract foreign investments that contribute to Greece’s economic growth and job creation.
Eligibility for Investment Visa
Nepalese nationals interested in applying for an investment visa must meet specific eligibility requirements, including:
- Individual Investors: Those looking to start a new business or purchase an existing company.
- Property Investors: Citizens willing to invest in residential or commercial real estate.
- CEOs: Executives of international businesses aiming to expand operations in Greece.
Requirements for Obtaining an Investment Visa
To successfully obtain an investment visa, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- Minimum Investment Amount: A minimum investment of €250,000 is required, which can be allocated to:
- Real Estate: Acquisition of residential or commercial property.
- Business: Investment in a new business venture or purchasing an existing enterprise.
- Legal Origin of Funds: Applicants must provide documentation proving the legal source of their investment funds, such as:
- Bank Statements
- Tax Returns
- Documentation for asset sales if applicable
- Active Management Participation: If establishing a business, the applicant must actively engage in management and decision-making.
- Comprehensive Business Plan: A detailed business plan must be submitted, outlining:
- Description of the investment project
- Financial projections and expected profit calculations
- Proposed job creation
- Business development strategy
- Medical Insurance: Valid health insurance covering basic medical expenses in Greece is mandatory.
- Certificate of No Criminal Record: A criminal record certificate from the applicant’s country of residence and any other country lived in during the last 10 years is required.
Application Procedure for Nepalese Nationals
The application process involves several steps:
| Process Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Collection of Documents | Prepare a document package confirming your intent to invest in Greece, including:
|
| Submitting an Application | Applications must be submitted to the Greek consulate or embassy in Nepal, ensuring all documents are translated into Greek and properly certified. |
| Application Consideration | Greek migration authorities will review submitted documents and may request additional information. This review period can range from several weeks to months, depending on case complexity. |
| Obtaining a Visa | Upon approval, the applicant receives a long-term visa allowing entry into Greece and the opportunity to obtain a residence permit for up to five years, which is renewable. |
Rights Granted to Nepalese Nationals with an Investment Visa
Nepalese nationals who secure an investment visa enjoy several rights:
- Right to Live and Work: Investors and their families can reside in Greece for the duration of their residence permit and manage their businesses.
- Access to Healthcare: Investors and their families gain access to Greece’s healthcare system.
- Education for Children: Investors’ children are entitled to free education in public schools in Greece.
- Free Movement within Schengen Countries: The investment visa permits travel within the Schengen Area without additional visa requirements.
Greece Investment Visa for Bangladeshi Nationals
Greece, with its appealing climate and rich historical background, is increasingly popular among foreign investors, particularly Bangladeshi nationals. The Golden Visa program offers an avenue for these individuals to legally reside and conduct business in Greece through significant investment. Below are key legal aspects regarding obtaining an investment visa for Bangladeshi nationals.
Legal Framework for Investment Visa
The investment visa to Greece is governed by the Migration Legislation and Law No. 4251/2014, aimed at fostering foreign investment, enhancing economic growth, and creating jobs.
Eligibility for Investment Visa
Bangladeshi nationals interested in the investment visa must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:
- Individual Investors: Individuals aiming to launch a new business or buy an existing one.
- Property Investors: Those wishing to invest in residential or commercial properties.
- CEOs: Leaders of international enterprises looking to expand their operations in Greece.
Requirements for Obtaining an Investment Visa
Applicants must meet the following criteria to successfully secure an investment visa:
- Minimum Investment Amount: A minimum investment of €250,000 is necessary, which can be directed toward:
- Real Estate: Purchasing residential or commercial property.
- Business: Investing in a new or existing business.
- Legal Origin of Funds: Documentation proving the legal source of funds is required, including:
- Bank Statements
- Tax Returns
- Documents related to asset sales if applicable
- Active Management Participation: Applicants must actively participate in business management if establishing a business.
- Comprehensive Business Plan: Submission of a detailed business plan outlining:
- Investment project description
- Financial projections and expected profits
- Projected job creation
- Business development strategy
- Medical Insurance: Health insurance that is valid in Greece and covers basic medical expenses is required.
- Certificate of No Criminal Record: A criminal record certificate from the applicant’s country of residence and any other countries lived in over the past 10 years must be provided.
Application Procedure for Bangladeshi Nationals
The application process consists of several steps:
- Collection of Documents: Prepare a document package confirming your intent to invest in Greece, including:
- A valid passport (with a minimum six-month validity)
- Investment confirmation documents (bank statements, contracts)
- Business Plan
- Proof of the legal origin of funds
- Submitting an Application: Applications must be submitted to the Greek consulate or embassy in Bangladesh, ensuring that all documents are translated into Greek and certified.
- Application Consideration: Greek migration authorities will review submitted documents and may request additional information. The review process may take several weeks to months based on case complexity.
- Obtaining a Visa: Upon approval, applicants receive a long-term visa allowing entry into Greece and the chance to secure a residence permit for up to five years, renewable.
Rights Granted to Bangladeshi Nationals with an Investment Visa
Bangladeshi nationals who obtain an investment visa enjoy several rights:
- Right to Live and Work: Investors and their families can reside in Greece for the duration of their residence permit and manage their businesses.
- Access to Healthcare: Investors and their families gain access to Greece’s healthcare system.
- Education for Children: Investors’ children are entitled to free education in public schools in Greece.
- Free Movement within Schengen Countries: The investment visa allows for travel within the Schengen Area without the need for additional visas.
The Greece investment visa presents excellent opportunities for Nepalese and Bangladeshi nationals looking to invest and integrate into the Greek economy. To ensure compliance with legal requirements and proper document preparation, seeking advice from professionals specializing in migration law is highly advisable.
Frequently asked question
The Investment Visa to Greece, commonly known as the Golden Visa, allows foreign nationals to legally reside and conduct business in Greece in exchange for a significant investment. To successfully obtain this visa, it is crucial to gather and submit a complete set of documents demonstrating that you meet all the program’s requirements. Below is a detailed overview of the documents needed to apply for an investment visa to Greece.
Legal Basis for Obtaining an Investment Visa
The investment visa is governed by the Migration Legislation and Law No. 4251/2014, which addresses investments and business activities by foreign nationals. The primary goal of the program is to attract foreign investment and foster economic growth in Greece.
Basic Documents Required to Apply for an Investment Visa
Foreign Passport
- Requirements: The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of application and have a minimum of two blank pages for visa stamps.
- Copies of Pages: Provide copies of all passport pages containing personal details and any previous visas.
Visa Application Form
- Application Form: The applicant must complete and sign the visa application form, which can be downloaded from the official website of the Greek Consulate or obtained directly at the Consulate.
Photographs
- Photo Requirements: Two recent passport-sized photographs (35×45 mm, on a white background) must be submitted.
Documents Confirming Investments
- Bank Documents: Include bank statements confirming the availability of funds for investment.
- Contracts and Agreements: Provide documents that confirm the purchase of real estate or shares in a company, along with other investment agreements.
- Business Establishment Documents: If establishing a new company, submit the incorporation documents for the company in Greece.
Documents Confirming the Legal Origin of Funds
- Documents: Provide proof of the legitimacy of the funds’ sources, which may include:
- Bank statements.
- Tax returns.
- Evidence of legal income (e.g., wage statements or business income).
Business Plan
- Business Plan Requirements: The applicant must submit a detailed business plan including:
- Description of the investment project.
- Financial forecasts.
- Expected job creation numbers.
- A business development plan for the coming years.
The business plan should convincingly demonstrate the investment’s potential positive economic impact.
Confirmation of Health and Safety
The applicant is required to undergo a medical examination and provide certificates confirming the absence of dangerous diseases to protect public health.
Certificate of No Criminal Record
- Certificates Required: Submit certificates of criminal records from your country of residence and any other countries where you have lived in the past ten years. These must be translated into Greek and certified if necessary.
Additional Documents
Depending on your specific situation, additional documents may be required:
- Certificate of Residence: If you already own property in Greece, proof of ownership may be necessary.
- Family Members’ Documents: If you are including family members in your application, their passports and marriage or birth certificates must also be provided.
Investment Visa Application Procedure
The process to obtain an investment visa includes the following steps:
- Collection of Documents: Prepare a complete package of documents meeting all program requirements.
- Application: Submit the application to the Greek consulate or embassy in your country of residence. Some consulates may require an appointment in advance.
- Processing of the Application: The Greek authorities will review the submitted documents, and the review process can take several weeks to a few months.
- Obtaining a Visa: If approved, you will receive a long-term visa allowing you to reside and conduct business legally in Greece.
Acquiring an investment visa to Greece requires meticulous preparation and adherence to all legal stipulations. You must validate substantial financial investments, substantiate the legal origin of funds, and prove your intent to conduct business. Understanding all facets of this process will help mitigate errors and ensure a successful visa application.
The Greece Investment Visa, or Golden Visa, provides foreign nationals with the opportunity to legally reside and do business in Greece in exchange for a substantial investment. The program attracts a diverse range of investors due to its flexible investment options. Below, we will explore the primary investment avenues available for obtaining an investment visa to Greece, along with relevant legal requirements and conditions.
Property Investments
Purchasing property in Greece is one of the most popular methods for obtaining an investment visa. This option is appealing not only for investment potential but also for ensuring a comfortable stay in the country. Key aspects include:
- Minimum Investment Amount: Applicants must invest a minimum of €250,000 in residential or commercial property.
- Acquisition Process: Ensure that the transaction is legally compliant, including verifying property documents and ensuring the title is free of debt.
For instance, purchasing a flat in Athens or Crete can provide not only a residence permit but also a source of income through rental.
Business Investment
Individuals wishing to establish a business in Greece can apply for an investment visa by investing in the formation of a new company or purchasing an existing one. Considerations include:
- Investment Amount: The minimum investment amount is also €250,000.
- Business Plan: Applicants must submit a detailed business plan outlining objectives, development strategies, and financial forecasts, which is vital for assessing the business’s viability.
For example, an investor may choose to open a restaurant or hotel, fostering integration into the local community and creating job opportunities.
Investments in Start-ups and Innovative Projects
Greece actively supports innovation and start-ups, making this investment option particularly appealing to those willing to take risks on new ideas. Key requirements include:
- Innovation Check: The project must demonstrate an innovative approach and growth potential.
- Job Creation: Investments must contribute to creating new jobs, which is an essential criterion for visa approval.
Investing in a technology start-up focused on artificial intelligence or eco-friendly technologies can yield profits while positively impacting Greece’s economy.
General Requirements for All Types of Investments
Despite the variety of investment opportunities, certain general requirements must be met:
- Legal Origin of Funds: The applicant must confirm that the funds used for investment are legally sourced, which can include bank statements, tax returns, and other supporting documents.
- Health Insurance: Valid health insurance covering all medical expenses in Greece is necessary.
- Criminal Record Certificate: Applicants must provide criminal record certificates from their country of residence and any other countries they have lived in for the past decade.
The Greece investment visa offers numerous options for foreign nationals aiming to legally reside and conduct business in the country. Whether through property purchases, business investments, or supporting innovative projects, these options open doors to new opportunities and facilitate integration into Greek society.
The Greece Investment Visa, or Golden Visa, allows foreign nationals not only to conduct business and live in Greece but also to include family members in the application, promoting family reunification. This feature makes the program particularly attractive for investors who want to provide for their loved ones. Below, we discuss the legal aspects of including family members in the investment visa application, along with the requirements and rights granted to them.
Legal Basis for Family Reunification
The inclusion of family members in the investment visa application is governed by the Migration Law and Law No. 4251/2014, which addresses investments and business activities by foreign nationals. The program aims to create a supportive environment for investors and their families, facilitating integration into Greek society.
Who Can Be Included in the Application?
According to Greek law, the following categories of family members can be included in the application for an investment visa:
Spouse(s)
The principal applicant’s spouse may be included in the visa application. The applicant must provide documents proving the legitimacy of the marriage, such as a marriage certificate, which must be translated into Greek and certified if necessary.
Minor Children
All minor children (under 18 years of age) of the investor are eligible for a visa alongside their parents, including both biological and adopted children. Birth certificates or adoption documents must be provided.
Adult Children
Adult children may also be included in the application if they are financially dependent on the main applicant. Such cases are assessed on an individual basis and require additional evidence of financial dependence.
Requirements for the Inclusion of Family Members
To include family members in the investment visa application, several requirements must be met:
Confirmation of Parentage
The applicant must provide documentation proving the relationship with family members, including:
- Marriage certificate for spouses.
- Birth certificates for children.
These documents must be translated into Greek and apostilled depending on their country of origin.
Financial Solvency
The investor must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support both themselves and their family members during their residence in Greece, ensuring that family members do not become a financial burden on the country’s social system. Required documents may include:
- Bank statements.
- Evidence of business income or other income sources.
Medical Insurance
All family members, including children, must have health insurance valid in Greece. This insurance must meet the minimum requirements set by Greek law and cover both the investor and their family members.
Application Procedure for Family Members
The application process for family members mirrors that of the principal applicant:
- Collection of Documents: Gather all necessary documents demonstrating relationships, financial stability, and health insurance coverage.
- Submission: Family members must submit their applications together with the principal applicant’s visa application.
- Approval Process: The Greek authorities will process applications collectively, usually in conjunction with the main applicant’s application.
Rights Granted to Family Members
Upon receiving the investment visa, family members obtain several rights, including:
- Residence: The right to reside legally in Greece.
- Work Permit: Family members may also obtain work permits if they wish to work in Greece.
- Access to Education: Children will have the right to enroll in schools and universities, providing them with education opportunities in Greece.
Including family members in the Greece Investment Visa program significantly enhances the attractiveness of this investment opportunity. Investors can ensure the well-being of their families while pursuing business opportunities and contributing positively to Greek society.