Chinese Investors Dominate Greece’s Golden Visa Program with Over 6,000 Permits Issued

Chinese Investors Dominate Greece’s Golden Visa Program with Over 6,000 Permits Issued

Greece’s Golden Visa program continues to attract strong global interest, with Chinese investors emerging as the dominant group. In 2024 alone, over 6,000 residency permits were issued to Chinese nationals, making them the largest participant in the program. This trend highlights Greece’s growing appeal as an investment and residency destination, particularly among high-net-worth individuals from China.

With Greece offering visa-free Schengen access, real estate investment opportunities, and a relatively low entry requirement, it’s no surprise that wealthy Chinese investors are choosing Greece over other European countries. But what is driving this surge in demand, and what impact does it have on Greece’s real estate market and economy?

Why Are Chinese Investors Choosing Greece’s Golden Visa?

Several factors make Greece one of the most attractive destinations for Chinese investors seeking European residency:

1️⃣ Affordable Entry Compared to Other EU Golden Visas

• Greece offers one of the most cost-effective residency-by-investment programs in Europe, requiring a minimum real estate investment of €250,000 (increased to €500,000 in some high-demand areas).

• Compared to Portugal (€500,000+), Spain (€500,000), and Ireland (discontinued), Greece remains a more accessible option.

2️⃣ Fast-Track to European Residency

• The Greek Golden Visa has no minimum stay requirement, making it highly convenient for investors who want EU residency without relocating full-time.

• Successful applicants and their families gain visa-free access to 26 Schengen countries.

3️⃣ Strong Returns in Greece’s Real Estate Market

• Athens, Thessaloniki, and the Greek islands have seen rising property values and rental yields, making real estate a lucrative investment.

• Many Chinese investors purchase multiple properties to qualify for the visa, contributing to the expansion of Greece’s luxury property market.

4️⃣ Uncertainty in China’s Economic and Political Climate

• Many high-net-worth individuals in China are looking for long-term stability and international mobility due to strict government policies, property market downturns, and financial uncertainties.

• Greece provides a secure investment environment, a growing economy, and the ability to maintain a secondary residence in the EU.

Impact on Greece’s Economy and Real Estate Market

The influx of Chinese investors has played a crucial role in revitalizing Greece’s economy and real estate sector. The Golden Visa program has generated billions in foreign direct investment, helping to:

🏡 Boost the real estate market, particularly in Athens, Crete, and Santorini.

💼 Increase job creation in construction, real estate, and tourism industries.

📈 Strengthen Greece’s position as a leading investment destination in Europe.

However, the program has also sparked concerns about rising property prices, particularly in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, where locals are struggling to afford housing. Similar issues have been observed in Portugal and Spain, leading to tightened regulations on foreign investment in real estate.

The Greek government has already raised the minimum investment threshold in some areas to €500,000, aiming to balance foreign investment with housing affordability for locals.

Will Greece Continue to Be the Top Choice for Chinese Investors?

Despite changes to investment thresholds, Greece remains one of the most attractive Golden Visa destinations in Europe. With Spain ending its Golden Visa program and Portugal shifting to alternative investment routes, Greece is expected to continue attracting high-net-worth investors from China and beyond.

Additionally, Greece’s pathway to citizenship after seven years of residency is another long-term advantage, allowing investors to secure an EU passport while maintaining financial flexibility.

With demand from Chinese investors remaining strong, the Greek Golden Visa program will likely see continued growth in 2025, cementing its place as one of Europe’s most competitive residency-by-investment programs.

Greece’s Golden Visa program has become the top choice for Chinese investors, with over 6,000 residency permits issued in 2024 alone. The program’s affordable entry, visa-free Schengen access, and strong real estate market continue to make Greece a prime destination for high-net-worth individuals.

As other European countries tighten their residency-by-investment rules, Greece is likely to benefit from an increasing number of investors looking for stable, long-term opportunities in the EU.