My main goal was securing residency for business purposes, but the programme also made my family very happy with unrestricted access to the Schengen Area. My wife and eldest daughter are particularly delighted.
Ahmed A.
Developer , Egypt
PROFILE
Developer & Family
Applicant
45 y.o.
Spouse
42 y.o.
Children
17, 12 y.o.
goals
Client Requirements
EU real estate expansion
EU banking & tax access
Schengen-wide mobility
Solution
During his initial consultation, Astons provided Ahmen with a full comparison of Europe’s residency-by-investment options. Portugal and Italy required higher contributions and significantly longer timelines, while Cyprus, though attractive from an investment perspective, does not offer Schengen access, which was essential for Ahmed’s family and business travel needs.
Greece emerged as the most strategic choice, offering:
Attractive property investments from €250,000
A 6–12 months processing timeframe
Favourable tax conditions
Full Schengen Area access
Ability to include spouse, children under 21, and parents of both spouses
From Astons’ portfolio, Ahmed selected an apartment within a commercial building that had been fully converted into modern residential units. All redevelopment work had already been completed, enabling him to participate at the lowest qualifying investment threshold ( €250,000) while securing a centrally located asset in Athens.
Since his primary goal was obtaining EU residency rather than generating rental income, Ahmed opted for a €270,000 studio in a former commercial project, fully modernised into residential accommodation.
Step-by-Step Process with Astons
1. Initial Consultation with an Astons Immigration Specialist
Within 24 hours, Astons assessed Ahmed’s profile and confirmed full eligibility for the program. For Egyptian investors, timely preparation of financial documentation is essential, so our specialists reviewed all funds and compliance requirements in advance to ensure a smooth process.
2. Property Selection and Reservation
Astons curated a portfolio of modern apartments in Athens and coastal Attica. Ahmed selected a 50 m² studio in a new;y renovated complex near the business district for €270,000. A 10% deposit was paid to secure the property.
3. Document Preparation
Using a power of attorney, Astons’ legal team signed the sale contract at the notary, registered the title deed, and completed all required formalities. Ahmed did not need to travel to Greece at this stage.
4. Application Submission
Once the balance of the property, taxes, government fees were paid, and family health insurance obtained, Astons submitted the complete application package to the Greek migration authorities.
5. Application Processing
Astons lodged the application electronically. Verification took approximately two weeks after the developer confirmed payment of the investment.
6. Temporary Residence Approval
The family received the White Paper, granting temporary residence and entry rights to the EU. They were required to travel to Greece within one year to complete biometrics.
7. Biometrics Appointment
Several months later, Ahmed, his wife, and both children travelled to Athens to submit fingerprints and photographs. Biometrics are mandatory for all applicants aged six and above.
8. Issuance of Residency Cards
Six months after submission, Astons collected the family’s 5-year residence permits and couriered them directly to Cairo.
Comparison of Residency by Investment Programs
Program
Investment Threshold
Processing Time
Schengen Access
Minimum required stay
Greece
Residency
from €250,000
4 months
Yes
None
Cyprus
Residency
from €300,000
8 months
No
1 visit every 2 years
Malta
Residency
from €169,000
9 months
Yes
None
Portugal
Residency
from €250,000
18 months
Yes
14 days every 2 years
Hungary
Residency
from €250,000
4 months
Yes
None
Italy
Residency
from €500,000
3 months
Yes
None
Costs Incurred
Apartment in Athens
€270,000
Property transfer tax (3.09%)
€8,343
Land registry fee (0.6%)
€1,620
Notary fee (~1.5%)
€4,050
Government fees for residency (4 applicants)
€8,600
Residence card issuance (€16 × 4)
€64
Additional Costs:
Astons’ legal and service fees are calculated individually. Additional costs may include translations, medical insurance, or other minor administrative expenses.
Total (excluding additional costs):
€292,677
Personalised Cost Breakdown for Program Participation
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Susanna Uzakova
Senior Citizenship & Residency Advisor
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