How to Include Your Family Under the Greek Golden Visa Program
Table of Contents
- Introduction to the Greek Golden Visa Program
- Benefits of Including Family Members
- Eligibility Criteria for Family Members
- Required Documents for Family Applications
- Application Process for Family Members
- Investment Options for the Greek Golden Visa
- Legal Considerations and Obligations
- Living in Greece with Your Family
- Renewing and Maintaining Family Visas
- Pathways to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Introduction to the Greek Golden Visa Program
The Greek Golden Visa Program, launched in 2013, has become one of the most popular residency-by-investment schemes in Europe. This program offers non-EU citizens the opportunity to obtain a residence permit in Greece through strategic investments in the country’s real estate market or other approved sectors. One of the most attractive features of this program is the ability to include family members, allowing investors to relocate with their loved ones and enjoy the benefits of Greek residency together.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the intricacies of including your family under the Greek Golden Visa Program. From eligibility criteria to application processes, investment options, and the advantages of living in Greece, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision about this life-changing opportunity.
Benefits of Including Family Members
The Greek Golden Visa Program offers numerous advantages for investors who wish to include their family members:
- Family unity: The program allows families to stay together while enjoying the benefits of Greek residency.
- Access to education: Children can attend Greek schools and universities, benefiting from the country’s high-quality education system.
- Healthcare access: Family members gain access to Greece’s public healthcare system.
- Schengen Area travel: The entire family can travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- Path to citizenship: After seven years of continuous residence, family members may be eligible to apply for Greek citizenship.
- Quality of life: Families can enjoy Greece’s Mediterranean lifestyle, rich culture, and favorable climate.
These benefits make the Greek Golden Visa an attractive option for investors looking to secure a better future for their families while diversifying their investment portfolio.
Eligibility Criteria for Family Members
To include family members in your Greek Golden Visa application, they must meet specific eligibility criteria. The following family members are eligible for inclusion:
- Spouse or registered partner
- Children under 21 years of age
- Unmarried children between 21 and 24 years old who are financially dependent on the main applicant
- Parents and parents-in-law of the main applicant and spouse
It’s important to note that all family members must be able to prove their relationship to the main applicant through official documentation. Additionally, they must not pose a threat to public order or national security and should have a clean criminal record.
Age Restrictions and Dependents
While children under 21 are automatically eligible, those between 21 and 24 must prove their financial dependence on the main applicant. This typically involves providing evidence of full-time education enrollment or demonstrating that they are unable to support themselves financially due to physical or mental health conditions.
Required Documents for Family Applications
When including family members in your Greek Golden Visa application, you’ll need to prepare a set of documents for each individual. These typically include:
- Valid passports for all family members
- Birth certificates for children
- Marriage certificate or proof of registered partnership
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Police clearance certificates from the country of origin and residence
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- Proof of financial dependency for adult children (if applicable)
- Medical certificates proving good health
All documents must be officially translated into Greek and apostilled or legalized, depending on the country of origin. It’s advisable to work with a reputable immigration lawyer or consultant to ensure all documentation is in order and meets Greek authorities’ requirements.
Application Process for Family Members
The application process for including family members in your Greek Golden Visa involves several steps:
- Prepare all required documents for each family member.
- Submit the family application along with the main investor’s application or separately if the main applicant already holds a Golden Visa.
- Pay the applicable fees for each family member.
- Attend biometrics appointments at the Greek consulate or embassy in your country of residence.
- Wait for the application to be processed by Greek authorities.
- Receive approval and collect residence permits for all family members.
The processing time for family member applications can vary but typically takes between 2 to 4 months. It’s crucial to start the process well in advance of any planned relocation to Greece.
Investment Options for the Greek Golden Visa
To qualify for the Greek Golden Visa Program, the main applicant must make a qualifying investment. The most common investment options include:
- Real estate investment of at least €250,000
- Purchase of securities or bonds worth at least €400,000
- Bank deposit of at least €400,000 with a 3-year fixed term
- Investment in shares or corporate bonds worth at least €800,000
- Investment in government bonds worth at least €400,000 with a 3-year holding period
Real estate remains the most popular option due to its lower investment threshold and potential for rental income or capital appreciation. When choosing an investment, consider factors such as location, potential return on investment, and alignment with your long-term goals.
Legal Considerations and Obligations
Including family members in your Greek Golden Visa application comes with certain legal considerations and obligations:
- Maintaining the investment: The main applicant must maintain the qualifying investment for the duration of the residence permit.
- Minimum stay requirements: While there is no minimum stay requirement to maintain the visa, spending significant time in Greece may be necessary for future citizenship applications.
- Tax implications: Family members may become tax residents in Greece if they spend more than 183 days per year in the country.
- Health insurance: All family members must maintain valid health insurance coverage throughout their stay in Greece.
- Reporting changes: Any changes in family circumstances (e.g., births, marriages, divorces) must be reported to Greek authorities.
It’s essential to consult with legal and tax professionals to understand these obligations fully and ensure compliance with Greek laws and regulations.
Living in Greece with Your Family
Relocating to Greece with your family under the Golden Visa Program offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s rich culture, history, and lifestyle. Some aspects to consider when planning your move include:
Education Options
Greece offers a range of educational options for children, including public schools, private international schools, and universities. Many international schools in Athens and other major cities offer curricula in English and other languages, easing the transition for expatriate families.
Healthcare Services
Greece has a public healthcare system that Golden Visa holders can access. However, many expatriates choose to supplement this with private health insurance for more comprehensive coverage and shorter wait times.
Cultural Integration
Embracing Greek culture and learning the language can greatly enhance your family’s experience. Consider enrolling in Greek language courses and participating in local community events to facilitate integration.
Renewing and Maintaining Family Visas
Golden Visa residence permits for family members are initially valid for five years and can be renewed as long as the main applicant maintains the qualifying investment. The renewal process typically involves:
- Submitting renewal applications before the current permits expire
- Providing updated documentation, including proof of maintained investment
- Paying renewal fees for each family member
- Attending biometrics appointments if required
It’s crucial to start the renewal process well in advance to avoid any gaps in residency status. Working with a legal professional can help ensure a smooth renewal process.
Pathways to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
The Greek Golden Visa Program can serve as a stepping stone to permanent residency and citizenship for family members. After seven years of continuous residence in Greece, family members may be eligible to apply for citizenship, provided they meet other requirements such as Greek language proficiency and integration into Greek society.
It’s important to note that the path to citizenship requires careful planning and adherence to residency requirements. Consulting with immigration experts can help you navigate this process effectively.
Conclusion
Including your family in the Greek Golden Visa Program offers a unique opportunity to secure residency in a beautiful Mediterranean country while potentially paving the way for long-term settlement or EU citizenship. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and obligations associated with the program, you can make an informed decision about whether this path is right for your family.
As with any significant life decision, thorough research and professional guidance are essential. Consider consulting with legal, tax, and immigration experts to ensure that you navigate the process smoothly and maximize the benefits of the Greek Golden Visa Program for your entire family.
FAQs
1. Can I include my unmarried partner in my Greek Golden Visa application?
Yes, registered partners or those in a civil union recognized by Greek law can be included in the application. However, unmarried partners without legal recognition may need to explore alternative options or consider formalizing their relationship before applying.
2. Are there any restrictions on working in Greece for family members included in the Golden Visa?
Family members included in the Greek Golden Visa have the right to work in Greece. However, they may need to obtain additional permits or meet specific requirements depending on their profession, especially for regulated fields like medicine or law.
3. Can my children continue their education in English while living in Greece?
Yes, there are several international schools in Greece, particularly in Athens and other major cities, that offer education in English and other languages. These schools follow various curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British, and American systems.
4. What happens to my family’s residency status if I decide to sell my investment property?
If you sell your investment property, you must reinvest in another qualifying property to maintain your Golden Visa status. As long as you maintain a qualifying investment, your family’s residency status remains valid. It’s crucial to inform the authorities of any changes in your investment.
5. Can family members apply for Greek citizenship independently of the main applicant?
Yes, family members can apply for Greek citizenship independently after meeting the residency requirements (typically seven years of continuous residence) and fulfilling other criteria such as language proficiency and integration. Each family member’s application is considered separately based on their individual circumstances.
Article reviewed by Charlotte Bennett, Senior Corporate Strategist | Mentor to Next-Gen Leaders | Navigating Business Transitions, on March 1, 2025
