Family Inclusion Under the Greek Golden Visa: Who Qualifies?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to the Greek Golden Visa Program
2. Overview of Family Inclusion in the Greek Golden Visa
3. Primary Applicant Eligibility Criteria
4. Family Members Eligible for Inclusion
5. Documentation Required for Family Members
6. Benefits of Including Family in the Greek Golden Visa
7. Application Process for Family Members
8. Renewal and Maintenance of Family Visas
9. Comparison with Other European Golden Visa Programs
10. Potential Challenges and Considerations
11. Future Outlook for Family Inclusion in the Greek Golden Visa
12. Conclusion

1. Introduction to the Greek Golden Visa Program

The Greek Golden Visa Program, launched in 2013, has become one of the most popular residency-by-investment schemes in Europe. This program offers non-EU nationals the opportunity to obtain a residence permit in Greece through strategic investments in real estate or other eligible assets. As Greece continues to attract global investors, understanding the nuances of family inclusion under this program has become increasingly important.

The Greek Golden Visa not only provides a pathway to residency for the primary applicant but also extends this privilege to their immediate family members. This family-friendly approach has made the program particularly attractive to investors seeking to relocate with their loved ones or provide them with the benefits of European residency.

2. Overview of Family Inclusion in the Greek Golden Visa

Family inclusion is a cornerstone of the Greek Golden Visa Program, reflecting Greece’s commitment to keeping families together and fostering a welcoming environment for international investors. The program allows the primary applicant to include various family members in their application, ensuring that the benefits of Greek residency extend beyond the individual investor.

This inclusive approach aligns with Greece’s broader strategy to attract long-term residents who can contribute to the country’s economy and cultural diversity. By allowing family members to be part of the Golden Visa, Greece creates an attractive proposition for investors who prioritize their family’s well-being and future prospects.

3. Primary Applicant Eligibility Criteria

Before delving into family inclusion, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria for the primary applicant. To qualify for the Greek Golden Visa, the main investor must meet the following requirements:

• Be a non-EU/EEA citizen
• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a clean criminal record
• Possess valid health insurance coverage
• Make a qualifying investment in Greece, such as:
• Purchasing real estate with a minimum value of €250,000
• Investing in a timeshare agreement or lease of hotel accommodations for at least 10 years
• Making a capital contribution of at least €400,000 to a Greek company
• Purchasing Greek government bonds worth at least €400,000

Once the primary applicant meets these criteria and their application is approved, they can proceed with including eligible family members in their Golden Visa application.

4. Family Members Eligible for Inclusion

The Greek Golden Visa Program adopts a broad definition of family, allowing for the inclusion of various immediate and extended family members. The following family members are eligible for inclusion under the primary applicant’s Golden Visa:

4.1 Spouse or Registered Partner

The applicant’s legally married spouse or registered partner is eligible for inclusion in the Golden Visa application. This provision recognizes both traditional marriages and modern partnership arrangements, ensuring that committed couples can benefit from the program together.

4.2 Children Under 21 Years Old

Biological or legally adopted children of the primary applicant or their spouse/partner who are under 21 years of age at the time of application can be included. This allows young families to secure their children’s future in Greece and provides access to the country’s education system.

4.3 Dependent Children Over 21 Years Old

Adult children over 21 who are financially dependent on the primary applicant can also be included. This typically applies to children who are students or unable to support themselves due to physical or mental health conditions.

4.4 Parents of the Main Applicant and Spouse

The program extends to the parents of both the primary applicant and their spouse or partner. This provision is particularly valuable for investors who wish to ensure their elderly parents can enjoy the benefits of Greek residency and healthcare.

5. Documentation Required for Family Members

Including family members in a Greek Golden Visa application requires specific documentation to prove eligibility and relationship to the primary applicant. The following documents are typically required:

• Valid passports for all family members
• Birth certificates for children
• Marriage certificate or proof of registered partnership
• Proof of financial dependency for adult children (if applicable)
• Medical certificates proving good health
• Criminal record certificates from the country of origin or residence
• Proof of health insurance coverage for all family members

It’s important to note that all documents must be officially translated into Greek and properly authenticated or apostilled, depending on the country of origin.

6. Benefits of Including Family in the Greek Golden Visa

Including family members in the Greek Golden Visa offers numerous advantages that extend beyond mere residency rights. Some key benefits include:

• Access to Greece’s high-quality healthcare system
• Opportunity for children to attend Greek schools and universities
• Freedom of movement within the Schengen Area
• Potential pathway to Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residence
• Ability to work or start a business in Greece
• Access to Greece’s favorable tax regime for foreign residents

These benefits make the Greek Golden Visa an attractive option for families looking to secure a foothold in Europe and enjoy a high quality of life in a Mediterranean setting.

7. Application Process for Family Members

The process of including family members in a Greek Golden Visa application involves several steps:

1. Primary applicant submits their Golden Visa application and makes the qualifying investment
2. Once the primary application is approved, family members can be added to the application
3. Submit required documentation for each family member
4. Pay the application fees for each family member
5. Attend biometric appointments at the Greek consulate or immigration office
6. Wait for the processing and approval of family member applications
7. Receive residence permits for all approved family members

The timeline for family member inclusion can vary, but it typically takes 2-3 months from the submission of documents to the issuance of residence permits.

8. Renewal and Maintenance of Family Visas

Once granted, the Greek Golden Visa for family members is valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely, provided that the primary applicant maintains their qualifying investment. The renewal process involves:

• Submitting renewal applications before the expiry of the current residence permits
• Providing updated documentation, including proof of continued investment
• Demonstrating compliance with residency requirements (if applicable)
• Paying renewal fees for each family member

It’s crucial to note that while the primary applicant must maintain their investment, family members are not required to make separate investments to maintain their residency status.

9. Comparison with Other European Golden Visa Programs

When considering family inclusion, the Greek Golden Visa Program stands out as one of the most generous in Europe. Here’s how it compares to some other popular Golden Visa schemes:

• Portugal: Similar to Greece, allows inclusion of spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents
• Spain: More restrictive, typically only including spouse and minor children
• Malta: Allows inclusion of spouse and children, but with higher investment thresholds
• Cyprus: Suspended its program in 2020, but previously had similar family inclusion policies to Greece

Greece’s broad definition of eligible family members and relatively low investment threshold make it an attractive option for families seeking European residency.

10. Potential Challenges and Considerations

While the Greek Golden Visa offers significant benefits for families, there are some challenges and considerations to keep in mind:

• Language barrier: Greek language proficiency may be required for long-term integration
• Cultural adjustment: Adapting to Greek culture and lifestyle can take time
• Education system differences: Children may need to adjust to the Greek education system
• Economic fluctuations: Greece’s economy has been volatile in recent years
• Taxation implications: Understanding Greek tax laws and potential double taxation issues

Families should carefully consider these factors and seek professional advice to ensure the Greek Golden Visa aligns with their long-term goals and expectations.

11. Future Outlook for Family Inclusion in the Greek Golden Visa

The future of family inclusion in the Greek Golden Visa Program looks promising, with the Greek government continually refining the program to maintain its attractiveness to international investors. Some potential developments to watch for include:

• Possible expansion of eligible family members to include more extended family
• Streamlining of the application process for family members
• Enhanced integration support for families relocating to Greece
• Potential adjustments to investment thresholds or options

As Greece continues to position itself as a desirable destination for global investors and their families, the Golden Visa Program is likely to evolve to meet changing needs and preferences.

12. Conclusion

The Greek Golden Visa Program’s approach to family inclusion sets it apart as one of the most family-friendly residency-by-investment schemes in Europe. By allowing a wide range of family members to be included in the application, Greece offers investors the opportunity to secure a bright future not just for themselves, but for their entire family.

From spouses and children to parents and dependent adults, the program’s inclusive nature reflects Greece’s commitment to attracting long-term residents who can contribute to the country’s economic and cultural landscape. While challenges exist, the benefits of Greek residency, including access to healthcare, education, and the broader Schengen Area, make the Golden Visa an attractive option for families seeking a foothold in Europe.

As the program continues to evolve, it’s clear that family inclusion will remain a core component of the Greek Golden Visa, offering a pathway to European residency that keeps families together and opens up a world of opportunities.

FAQs

1. Can grandchildren be included in the Greek Golden Visa application?

While grandchildren are not explicitly mentioned in the official list of eligible family members, there may be exceptions made on a case-by-case basis, especially if the grandchild is a dependent of the primary applicant. It’s best to consult with a Greek immigration lawyer for specific cases.

2. Do family members need to reside in Greece to maintain their residence permits?

No, family members included in the Greek Golden Visa are not required to reside in Greece to maintain their residence permits. However, spending time in Greece may be necessary if pursuing Greek citizenship in the future.

3. Can family members be added to the Golden Visa after the initial application?

Yes, it is possible to add family members to the Golden Visa after the initial application has been approved. However, this process may involve additional paperwork and fees, so it’s often more straightforward to include all eligible family members in the initial application.

4. Are there any restrictions on working in Greece for family members included in the Golden Visa?

Family members included in the Greek Golden Visa have the right to work in Greece. This includes employment, self-employment, or starting a business. However, certain professions may require additional licenses or recognition of qualifications.

5. How does divorce affect the residency status of family members included in the Greek Golden Visa?

In the event of divorce, the residency status of family members can be affected. Typically, the spouse may lose their residency rights unless they can qualify for residency independently. Children’s status usually remains unaffected if one parent maintains their Golden Visa status. It’s advisable to seek legal counsel in such situations to understand the specific implications.

Article reviewed by Annice Schmeler, Head of Investment Properties | Commercial Real Estate Strategist | Delivering 20%+ Annual ROI for Clients, on March 2, 2025