Greece’s Golden Visa Backlog Shrinks, and Demand Remains Steady

• Posted on Jun 23, 2025
• In Industry News, Greece

Greece’s Golden Visa Remains a Popular Choice for Investors

Greece’s Golden Visa program continues to be one of Europe’s most appealing residency-by-investment options. Offering residency through real estate investment, it has consistently drawn interest from global investors seeking access to the European Union, enhanced lifestyle opportunities, and long-term stability. However, this sustained popularity has also contributed to longer processing times, a significant application backlog, and growing pressures in the real estate market.

A Backlog Reduction in 2025

After a period of steady increases, Greece managed a small but notable improvement in April 2025. The number of pending Golden Visa applications dropped slightly from 52,821 to 52,399. While modest, this decrease marks the first reduction in the backlog in over a year, indicating that Greek migration services are making progress in addressing the volume of applications, even if challenges remain.

Six Consecutive Years of Growth

Despite processing delays, 2025 appears set to become the sixth consecutive year of high application numbers for Greece’s Golden Visa program. Investors are drawn to Greece’s lifestyle, strategic location, and the security that EU residency offers. The steady application numbers also highlight investor confidence in Greece’s outlook.

“Interest in Greece’s Golden Visa program remains strong and continues to grow, driven by its unique lifestyle appeal and strategic investment opportunities,” says Carolina Figueiredo, Greece Program Director at Arton Capital.

New Investment Thresholds Reshape Strategy

In September 2024, Greece raised the minimum investment thresholds for its Golden Visa program, now €800,000 in popular areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, and €400,000 in most other regions, up from €250,000. While this change has moderated demand in some areas, it also reflects Greece’s efforts to better manage real estate pressures.

Notably, a €250,000 investment remains possible in specific cases, particularly when investing in commercial properties legally converted into residential use, subject to certain conditions. Investors are adjusting their strategies, accordingly, weighing the increased costs against the program’s ongoing benefits.

Investors are adjusting their strategies, weighing the increased costs against the program’s ongoing benefits.

Delays vs. Adjustment: Sustaining Investor Confidence

The high level of demand has led to added pressure on Greece’s migration services and the real estate market. Processing times, which once took only a few months, have now extended to 12 months or longer in some cases.

Meanwhile, rising investor interest has contributed to higher real estate prices in key areas, prompting shifts in local market dynamics and concerns about housing affordability. These developments highlight the importance of improving processing times and supporting balanced market conditions.

“We are focused on improving the experience for our clients, streamlining the application process and supporting sustainable real estate practices. Our priority is to ensure that Greece Golden Visa remains an attractive insurance strategy for investors worldwide,” Figueiredo emphasized.

Early 2025 Demand Remains Steady

The total number of applications in early 2025 still surpassed the figures from the previous year. From January to April, 3,477 applications were submitted, an increase of 25% compared to the same period in 2024. This continued interest is likely linked to investors making the most of extended grace periods and favorable pathways, showing that the program remains a compelling option even as conditions evolve.

Balancing Progress and Ongoing Challenges

Greece’s Golden Visa program remains a magnet for global investors, balancing the ongoing challenges of processing backlogs and rising real estate prices with the benefits of EU residency and a vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle.

The recent reduction in the backlog is an encouraging step forward, highlighting Greece’s commitment to improving the program. As investor needs and market dynamics evolve, sustained responsiveness will be key to maintaining the program’s strength and long-term sustainability.

This reflects broader trends in investment migration, where countries are increasingly aligning their programs to attract capital while supporting domestic economic interests.

How Arton Capital Can Help

At Arton Capital, we are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the residency or citizenship by investment process. From personalized consultations tailored to your specific goals to complete application management, we ensure a smooth and compliant journey. With our expert legal support, you can confidently navigate the process, and even after approval, we provide ongoing assistance to help you maintain your new status.

Connect with us today to take the next step toward global citizenship.

Sources:

• Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum (April 2025 data)
• IMI (imidaily.com)

---