ContactAre you considering making the beautiful country of Greece your second home? Acquiring Greek citizenship is a gateway to numerous benefits, including access to the Schengen zone and a high standard of living. But, how much does it cost to get Greek citizenship? In this ultimate guide, we will explore the various avenues available in 2024 for those looking to become Greek citizens, from the Greek Golden Visa to citizenship by descent.
Greece, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes, offers multiple pathways to citizenship, each with its own set of requirements and costs. Whether you’re of Greek descent or looking to invest in Greek real estate, this guide will provide you with essential information to navigate the process smoothly.
The Greek Golden Visa program has become an attractive option for non-EU citizens seeking EU citizenship. Launched in 2013, it allows individuals to obtain residency by making a significant real estate investment in Greece. As of 2024, the investment threshold stands as one of the lowest in Europe, making it an enticing option for investors worldwide.
To qualify for this program, applicants must invest at least €250,000 in Greek real estate. This investment grants them a five-year residency permit, which can be renewed as long as the property investment is maintained. The Golden Visa offers a multitude of advantages, such as the right to live in Greece, access to education and healthcare, and travel within the Schengen region. Over time, Golden Visa holders may also meet the criteria for full citizenship.
In addition to real estate, there are other Greek Golden Visa investment pathways such as capital contributions to a Greek company or government bonds. Each option comes with its own set of guidelines and minimum investment amounts, tailored to various investor profiles.
Obtaining Greek citizenship is a structured process with clear eligibility criteria. Applicants must typically have a clean criminal record, demonstrate knowledge of the Greek language, and show an understanding of Greek culture and history. For those seeking Greek dual citizenship requirements 2024, it’s essential to maintain a valid residence permit and fulfill the required period of legal residency in Greece.
Naturalization is another route, requiring a 7-year period of continuous residence in Greece before one can apply. During this time, applicants are expected to integrate into Greek society and contribute economically. Additionally, individuals married to Greek citizens may apply for citizenship after three years of marriage and living in Greece.
For descendants of Greek citizens, the Greek citizenship by descent application process can be more straightforward. The Greek nationality law recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis, granting citizenship to individuals of Greek ancestry.
Many people around the world with Greek heritage may not realize that they could be eligible for citizenship. The process to claim Greek citizenship by descent involves proving your Greek ancestry through a series of documents, such as birth and marriage certificates of Greek relatives.
Once the necessary paperwork is gathered, the application must be submitted to the Greek consulate or a municipal authority in Greece. Assistance from specialized services like Nomad Capitalist can streamline this process, highlighting the importance of a strong connection to your Greek roots.
It’s noteworthy that Greek citizenship by descent is not only a matter of personal pride but also opens doors to EU citizenship and its associated benefits. This includes the right to live, work, and study in any of the EU member states.
A Greek passport is highly valued for several reasons. Holders enjoy visa-free travel to over 180 countries, including the USA and Canada. As an EU passport, it provides the freedom to reside in any of the EU nations, a significant advantage for those who seek a life without borders.
The benefits and privileges extend to the employment sector as well. Greek citizens can work in any EU country without the need for a work permit, enjoying the same rights and protections as nationals of those countries. Moreover, Greece has agreements with various countries that prevent double taxation, offering tax benefits to its citizens.
Additional perks include access to high-quality healthcare, education, and the ability to vote and participate in the political process of both Greece and the EU.
The application for Greek citizenship consists of several steps, beginning with determining the basis for your application—whether it’s through residency, investment, descent, or marriage. Next, gathering all the necessary documentation is crucial. This may include proof of residency, financial stability, and integration into Greek society.
After submitting the application, there will be an interview where you will need to demonstrate your knowledge of the Greek language and culture. The final step involves taking an oath of allegiance to Greece, after which the citizenship certificate is issued.
It’s important to note that the process can be lengthy and may require professional legal assistance to navigate the administrative steps efficiently.
The timeline to acquire Greek citizenship varies depending on the method chosen. For those going through the naturalization process, a minimum of seven years of residency is required, followed by the time taken to process the application.
For the Golden Visa pathway, residency is almost immediate after the investment, but obtaining full citizenship may take several years as applicants must first meet the residency requirement. The process can be expedited for those of Greek descent, though it still involves bureaucratic steps that can take several months to complete.
In conclusion, the cost and time to obtain Greek citizenship in 2024 can differ significantly based on the chosen pathway. The Greek Golden Visa program offers a relatively straightforward and low-cost option for investors, while those claiming citizenship by descent may face less financial burden but more administrative work. Ultimately, a Greek passport offers a world of opportunities and is a valuable asset for anyone with the means and desire to acquire it.
Yes, individuals married to Greek citizens can apply for Greek citizenship after three years of marriage, provided they have lived in Greece during this period. The application requires proof of the marital relationship and integration into Greek society.
Applicants will need to demonstrate language proficiency and knowledge of Greek culture. The process includes an interview and, upon approval, a ceremony where an oath of allegiance to Greece is taken.
No, while real estate investment is the most common route, the Greek Golden Visa program offers alternative investment options. These include capital contributions to Greek companies, purchase of Greek government bonds, or investment in shares or bonds of Greek real estate investment companies.
Each investment pathway has specific criteria and minimum investment amounts. Prospective investors should consider their financial goals and seek professional advice to determine the most suitable option.
Greek citizens living abroad are not taxed on their worldwide income unless they are considered tax residents of Greece. To be a tax resident, an individual must spend more than 183 days per year in the country or have their center of life in Greece.
Greece has double taxation agreements with numerous countries to prevent Greek citizens from paying taxes on the same income in two different jurisdictions. Tax planning is essential for those living or conducting business internationally.