U.S. Family Secures Greek Residency and Builds a Profitable Rental Portfolio

We now have permanent access to Europe and a rental portfolio that supports our son’s future.

John M.

Investor , USA

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

Investment Summary: Golden Visa Entry Property