By Charalampos Amoiridis, LL.M. (King’s College London) Founder, Amoiridis Law Services®
The question we are most frequently asked by international clients is this:
“What is the most effective way to obtain a Greek residence permit by investing in a Greek company?”
As of June 2025, following the full implementation of Law 5187/2024 and its accompanying Ministerial Decisions, Greece offers a well-structured legal pathway for non-EU investors who wish to obtain residence through business participation, capital contributions, or startup investment. This article outlines the complete methodology — from selecting the right investment vehicle to securing your permit and planning your long-term presence in Greece.
✅ Investment Routes That Qualify (2025)
Greece now recognizes multiple corporate or financial investment routes for Golden Visa eligibility:
- Startup Investment (€250,000) – Article 19(1)(η) Law 5187/2024
- Capital Investment in Greek Companies (€500,000) – Article 20B Law 4251/2014 🔍 Who Is Eligible?
To apply, the investor must:
- Be a non-EU/EEA national.
- Have a clean criminal record.
- Transfer funds from abroad (proof of legal origin required).
- Hold valid health insurance.
- Participate in the company directly or via a legal entity.
🧾 Required Documentation
A typical application package includes:
- Valid passport and passport-size photos.
- Greek tax number (AFM) and bank account.
- Shareholder certificate or corporate agreement.
- Proof of funds transferred from abroad.
- Criminal record certificate from country of origin.
- Private health insurance.
- Application form and government fee receipt (€2,000–€2,500 per adult).
🏛️ Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Choose your route
Decide between:
- €250K tech startup investment with job creation.
- €500K corporate/financial investment with 5-year horizon.
Step 2: Structure the investment
- Open a Greek bank account.
- Transfer funds to company or investment vehicle.
- Complete capital contribution, share transfer, or fund subscription.
Step 3: Submit application
- File application at the Greek Migration Authority.
- Submit all documentation and pay government fees.
- Biometrics appointment is scheduled within 30–45 days.
📅 Permit Validity and Renewals
The initial residence permit granted under the startup investment route (€250,000) is valid for one year and may be renewed every two years, provided that the required full-time jobs are maintained. In contrast, the permit issued through corporate or capital investment (€500,000) is granted for five years and is renewable for as long as the investment remains in place.
Both investment routes also allow for the issuance of residence permits to the investor’s family members, including their spouse or registered partner, children under the age of 21, and both sets of parents.
🇬🇷 Long-Term Residency and Citizenship
After:
- 5 years of lawful presence: apply for permanent residence.
- 7 years: eligible for Greek citizenship (must pass Greek language and civic integration test).
🧠 Why Choose Business Investment Over Real Estate?
Lower entry barrier for startup route (€250K vs €800K in real estate).
- Supports Greece’s innovation economy.
- Easier divestment without property management burdens.
- Full Schengen access and long-term flexibility.
💼 Legal Support Is Crucial
Navigating this process requires precision. Our legal team at Amoiridis Law Services® has been advising international investors since 1999. We guide our clients from initial structuring and compliance to post-approval tax planning and family integration.
If you are considering investing in Greece, we will be glad to assist — whether you’re eyeing a thriving Greek startup, an existing company, or a custom investment vehicle.
📩 Get in touch to receive our step-by-step startup investment kit or full investor eligibility checklist.
Let’s build your gateway to Greece — legally, efficiently, and strategically.
Charalampos Amoiridis is the founder of Amoiridis Law Services®, a boutique law firm in Greece specialized in investment migration, corporate compliance, and dispute resolution for international clients. He holds an LL.M. in Banking & Finance Law from King’s College London.
How We Can Help
At Amoiridis Law Services®, we understand the complexities of the visa and permit process, and our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and support, ensuring your experience in Greece is smooth and hassle-free. For further information and personalized assistance tailored to your needs and profile, contact our legal team.
For any further information and clarifications please do not hesitate to contact our qualified legal team, ready to provide you with further personalized information tailored to your needs and your profile.
You can email us: or call/text us directly at: +306908351705 (WhatsApp/Viber)
Athens, July 2025
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