Focusing on investment immigration means focusing on naturalization policies, especially for European countries, which have been in the spotlight frequently this year. Following Cyprus and Portugal, Bulgaria and Greece have also taken center stage. Greece's investment immigration program entered the Chinese market in 2013 and, riding the wave of the European immigration year, quickly gained significant momentum. In terms of Greek policy, obtaining immigration status is almost within easy reach for investors. Subsequently, what investors are most concerned about is naturalization.
So, what is the naturalization policy for investment immigrants in Greece?
According to the 52-page Greek Nationality Code passed in March 2010, there are eight ways to obtain Greek nationality, which is the first step toward applying for a Greek passport and Greek citizenship status.
By being born in Greece to a Greek mother and/or a Greek father.
By being born to non-Greek parents who have long-term residency in Greece.
By attending school in Greece.
By proving that one's ancestors originated from Greece.
By recognition of parentage.
By adoption.
By serving in the Greek Army, Navy, or Air Force.
By naturalization:
For non-Greek foreign nationals who hold long-term residency in Greece. "A non-Greek spouse married to a Greek citizen does not automatically obtain Greek citizenship or a Greek passport; he/she must go through the naturalization process of residing legally and continuously in Greece for three to seven years, demonstrate fluency in the Greek language, and obtain certification in ancient Greek history/culture."
As of November 30, 2012, the Greek government has frozen all applications from foreign nationals of non-Greek descent.