We now have permanent access to Europe and a rental portfolio that supports our son’s future.
John M.
Investor , USA
PROFILE
Investor & Family
Main applicant
44 y.o.
Spouse
42 y.o.
Children aged
18, 12 y.o.
Mother-in-law
61 y.o.
goals
Client Requirements
EU residency
European education
Euro income
Situation
As their eldest son prepared to begin university in Europe, the family sought a stable and strategic base within the EU. Their goal was twofold: secure long-term residency rights in a safe, accessible European country and create a euro-denominated rental income stream to support their son throughout his studies.
Solution
Astons recommended the Greek Golden Visa programme – an ideal route for family-wide residency with minimal physical presence requirements and attractive investment terms.
In October 2024, the family purchased a €270,000 apartment in Piraeus, a hub of tourism and student demand. Seven months later, inspired by the initial experience, they returned to acquire 3 more apartments in Athens, further diversifying their portfolio.
Step-by-Step: How the Family Secured Greek Residency
1. Initial Consultation with Astons
During the first meeting, we explored the family’s long-term goals: ensuring their son’s future education in Europe, securing unrestricted access to the EU, and building a stable euro-based income stream through real estate investment.
2. Property Selection and Documentation
Our Athens-based team presented a curated selection of properties with high rental potential, focusing on safe neighborhoods with excellent infrastructure. Simultaneously, we began preparing the application dossier for residency.
3. Visit to Athens — Fully Coordinated
Upon arrival in Athens, the family was welcomed by an Astons driver and greeted by our local team. A dedicated translator and legal advisor guided them through apartment viewings, helped them settle in, and gave them a feel for the surrounding area.
4. Power of Attorney and Bank Account Setup
While some documents were prepared remotely in advance, others were completed during their visit, including the issuance of a local power of attorney and opening a Greek bank account.
5. Closing the Property Deal
After selecting an apartment in Piraeus — Athens’ port district known for strong rental demand — Astons handled the full legal due diligence, contract signing, and property registration.
6. Golden Visa Application Submission
Once the investment was finalized, our legal team submitted the family’s residence permit application remotely. All stages were monitored and managed by our Athens office to ensure efficiency and compliance.
Following the application, each family member received a “White Paper” — a temporary residence document that allowed them to stay in Greece and travel freely while awaiting their official residency cards.
7. Biometric Appointment
On their return trip to Greece, the family completed biometric registration without delays, accompanied by an Astons coordinator for full support throughout the appointment.
8. Residency Cards Issued
Within a few months, the family received their five-year residence permits. With their legal status secured, they now enjoy seamless access to their Athens properties, financial peace of mind, and the freedom to visit Europe anytime — including supporting their son’s academic journey in the EU.
Current Investment Thresholds | Global Comparison of RBI Programs
Program
Investment Threshold
Processing Time
Schengen Access
Minimum required stay
Greece
Residency
from €250,000
4 months
Yes
None
Portugal
Residency
from €250,000
18 months
Yes
14 days every 2 years
Malta
Residency
from €169,000
4 months
Yes
None
Cyprus
Residency
from €300,000
8 months
No
1 visit every 2 years
Hungary
Residency
from €250,000
4 months
Yes
None
Investment Summary: Golden Visa Entry Property
Apartment in Piraeus
€270,000
Property Transfer Tax (3.09%)
€8,343
Land Registry Fee (0.6%)
€1,620
Notary Fees (~1.5%)
€4,050
Immigration Fee (5 family members)
€2,600
Residence Cards (€16 x 5)
€80
Translation Services
€300
Private Health Insurance
€750
Additional Costs:
Astons legal and service fees
determined on a case-by-case basis
Total Investment:
€287,743
Personalised Cost Breakdown for Program Participation
The family received residence cards for all members and began generating income through their four-property portfolio. Their Piraeus apartment is fully tenanted, and the newer acquisitions are actively managed.
Encouraged by their smooth experience and the strong performance of the Greece rental market, the family returned within a few months to expand their investment. They acquired three additional apartments in promising residential neighborhoods across Athens, each selected for long-term capital growth and consistent rental demand.
This expanded portfolio not only diversifies their income stream but also strengthens their financial base in euros — supporting their son’s academic journey and building a lasting legacy in Europe. Greece now serves as their European base — with both financial and lifestyle benefits.
Why Greece?
Residency by investment from €250,000
Fast processing (3–6 months)
No obligation to live in the country
Visa-free access to the Schengen Area
Company registration, VAT, euro bank account
Income-generating real estate
Potential route to EU citizenship
Non-dom tax regime: €100,000 per year on all global income
Access to EU banking, healthcare, and education systems
At present, Greece’s Golden Visa is one of the most affordable ways to obtain EU residency by investment. The residence permit is valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely — with no requirement to live in Greece.
Why Astons?
Astons was awarded Best Real Estate Agency in Greece (2024–2025) by the European Property Awards. Our Athens office delivers:
Local expertise with international service
Legal, financial, and relocation support
Direct access to pre-screened properties
With over 35 years of experience in global mobility, we provide personalized, end-to-end assistance for U.S. citizens and international clients. Whether you’re relocating or diversifying your portfolio, we help you navigate every step with confidence.
Contact Astons for a confidential consultation and discover how you can secure European residency and returns in one move.
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Susanna Uzakova
Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor
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