Wealthy Indians Rush to Secure Greek Residency Through Real Estate Ahead of Golden Visa Changes

Indian investors are drawn to Greece for its attractive real estate prices, rental income opportunities, and access to the EU market. Before the changes to the Golden Visa Programme, Indians could secure residency with a €250,000 investment.

Greek ResidencyReal EstateGolden Visa ProgrammeIndian InvestorsEu MarketReal Estate NewsSep 19, 2024

Wealthy Indians Rush to Secure Greek Residency Through Real Estate Ahead of Golden Visa Changes
Real Estate News:Many investors bought properties still under construction, with handover periods ranging from six to twelve months. Wealthy Indians are rushing to buy property in Greece to secure residency before changes to the country’s Golden Visa Programme.The programme, launched in 2013, offers residency in exchange for real estate investments. On 1 September 2024, Greece doubled the minimum amount required to qualify for this visa, leading to a surge in property purchases by Indian investors.

Between July and August 2024, property sales to Indians in Greece jumped by 37%. Buyers wanted to take advantage of the lower investment threshold before it increased. Before the changes, Indians could secure residency with a €250,000 investment, which is about ₹2.5 crore.This change is part of Greece’s broader housing policy. The government aims to ensure affordable housing for its citizens. By increasing the required investment in prime areas, they hope to reduce demand from foreign buyers.

Indian buyers quickly reacted to the news of these changes. Many rushed to secure properties before the new rules took effect. Many investors bought properties still under construction, with handover periods ranging from six to twelve months.Greece’s Golden Visa Programme has become increasingly popular among wealthy Indians. The programme offers not only residency but also potential access to EU citizenship. Indian investors are drawn to Greece for its attractive real estate prices, rental income opportunities, and access to the EU market.

Rental yields in Greece are attractive, ranging from 3-5% annually. Property values have also been increasing by 10% each year, making it a sound investment for many. This is especially true post-COVID, with property appreciation rates nearly doubling.Greece and Cyprus are now top choices for Indian investors seeking permanent residency. Cyprus offers a similar programme, requiring an investment of €300,000. However, changes there mean the residency can only be passed down to two generations, excluding parents or grandparents.

Indian investors are increasingly looking at European countries for affordable residency programmes. Greece’s residency programme is one of the most affordable in Europe. It gives access to high-quality healthcare, education, and the relaxed European lifestyle.Compared to other popular destinations like the US and UK, Greece is much more affordable. The US and UK require investments of Rs 8-20 crore, with lower rental yields. For many high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), Greece remains a highly attractive option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Golden Visa Programme in Greece?

The Golden Visa Programme in Greece offers residency in exchange for real estate investments.

How much does it cost to secure Greek residency through the Golden Visa Programme?

Before the changes, Indians could secure residency with a €250,000 investment, which is about ₹2.5 crore. Now, the minimum investment required is €800,000 in cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, and €400,000 in other regions.

Why are Indian investors drawn to Greece for real estate investments?

Indian investors are drawn to Greece for its attractive real estate prices, rental income opportunities, and access to the EU market.

How do rental yields in Greece compare to other countries?

Rental yields in Greece are attractive, ranging from 3-5% annually, which is higher than in many other countries.

What are the benefits of Greece’s residency programme for Indian investors?

Greece’s residency programme offers access to high-quality healthcare, education, and the relaxed European lifestyle, making it an attractive option for Indian investors.

Related News Articles

Delhi NCR Leads the Way in Luxury Real Estate Sales in India
Real Estate Mumbai

Delhi NCR Leads the Way in Luxury Real Estate Sales in India

The luxury housing market in India has seen significant growth, with Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Hyderabad accounting for nearly 90% of total sales. The rise in NRI and domestic investors, along with a growing preference for high-end amenities, has driven this

October 17, 2024
Read Article
Real Estate Company Surges 13% on 321% Revenue Growth in Q3
Real Estate

Real Estate Company Surges 13% on 321% Revenue Growth in Q3

The shares of a leading real estate company surged by up to 13 percent after the company reported a 321% year-over-year (YoY) revenue growth in the third quarter, along with a 122% increase in net profit.

February 5, 2025
Read Article
HoABL Ventures into Vertical Real Estate in Mumbai with Massive Investment
Real Estate

HoABL Ventures into Vertical Real Estate in Mumbai with Massive Investment

Abhinandan Lodha's House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL) is making a significant move into the vertical real estate market in Mumbai with a mammoth investment of Rs 3,500 crore. This bold step signals a new era of growth and innovation in the Mumbai real estate sector.

April 23, 2025
Read Article
Mumbai's Real Estate Market Witnesses Strong Growth in March with High Property Registrations
Real Estate Maharashtra

Mumbai's Real Estate Market Witnesses Strong Growth in March with High Property Registrations

Property registrations in Mumbai's municipal area witnessed a significant 9.5% increase in March, reaching 15,482 units. This surge is attributed to robust housing demand and favorable market conditions.

March 31, 2025
Read Article
House Price Index Climbs 3.1% in Q3: RBI Report
Real Estate Mumbai

House Price Index Climbs 3.1% in Q3: RBI Report

The All-India House Price Index (HPI) saw a 3.1% increase in the third quarter of 2024-25, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The growth was observed across 10 major cities, with Kolkata leading the annual growth.

February 27, 2025
Read Article
Mahadev Betting Scam: ED Takes Major Action, Freezes Assets Worth ₹130.57 Crore
Real Estate Maharashtra

Mahadev Betting Scam: ED Takes Major Action, Freezes Assets Worth ₹130.57 Crore

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has conducted over 110 searches and frozen assets worth Rs 2426.18 crore in the Mahadev Betting Scam. Around 12 people have been arrested in connection with the case so far.

December 13, 2024
Read Article