Starting February 20, 2017, the issuance of residence cards separate from passports began. Previously, Greek residence permits were primarily affixed to passports, which required periodic passport renewals and were inconvenient to carry. Consequently, there was a growing demand for card-style residence permits. It is reported that this is currently in the testing phase, and time is still needed to refine various details and processes.
This minor adjustment shows that Greek immigration remains a golden project for European investment immigration. Why, then, has Greece, having just experienced the European debt crisis, attracted so many investors? Let us first look at the latest immigration policies and conditions in Greece.
【According to the latest Greek immigration policy, applicants who invest 250,000 euros in real estate can obtain a residence permit in one step. This includes the main applicant, their spouse, and parents, meaning three generations of a family can obtain Greek permanent residency in one go.】
Clarification of permanent residency status: The name of the Greek status obtained has been changed from 'resident permit for special reason' to 'permanent resident permit for investor', clarifying the permanent residency status. The permanent residence visa is valid for 5 years and can be renewed every five years as long as the property remains under the applicant's name.
Property resale: The latest Greek immigration policy stipulates that applicants who have obtained a residence permit through real estate investment can resell the property to other investors who wish to immigrate to Greece. This indirectly resolves the issue of children over 21 not having status, as parents can transfer the property to their children after they turn 21, allowing the children to obtain a residence permit, while the parents themselves can also retain their residence permits.
Residency time counts towards naturalization: The latest Greek immigration policy clearly states that the time spent in Greece by applicants who have obtained a Greek residence permit will count towards the residency requirements for long-term residence permits and the granting of citizenship (naturalization).
【Detailed Conditions for Naturalization in Greece】
1. Foreign adults who have long-term residency rights within Greece;
2. No criminal record;
3. Have legally resided in Greece continuously for at least seven years prior to application;
4. Pass tests on the Greek language and Greek culture.
Please note: Applicants do not automatically obtain Greek citizenship by marrying a Greek citizen.