Indian Investor and Family Obtain Greek Golden Visa via Piraeus Property Investment

European residency is a practical tool, providing freedom of movement, access to banks, and business partnerships.

Rahul M.

Entrepreneur , UAE

Client Situation

In spring 2024, an Indian entrepreneur based in Dubai approached Astons to secure EU residency through real estate investment. His objectives were:

• Obtain Greek residency for himself, his spouse, and elderly parents.
• Invest in a property with strong liquidity and rental potential.
• Maintain UAE tax residency with minimal physical presence requirements in Greece.

The client required a program that allowed rental income and offered flexible residency conditions, ensuring both family security and strategic business mobility.

Solution

The Greek Golden Visa program provided the optimal solution. It offers:

• Flexible tax regulations and minimal residency requirements.
• A reliable, well-established residency-by-investment framework.
• Access to a real estate market with strong capital appreciation and rental potential.

At the time of application, Greece was preparing to raise minimum investment thresholds, particularly in Piraeus. Acting quickly was essential to secure a qualifying property at the optimal price.

Astons, recognised by the European Property Awards 2024-2025 as the top real estate agency in Greece, works exclusively with licensed and vetted property developers. From our curated portfolio, the client selected a fully finished apartment in Piraeus – a fast-growing suburb of Athens known for strong property demand and long-term growth potential.

Step-by-Step Process of Obtaining Greek Residency With Astons

1. Consultation With Astons Immigration Specialist
Within 24 hours, Rahul’s eligibility was confirmed, including the inclusion of his spouse and parents. Greece requires strict due diligence and proof of lawful source of funds; our assessment ensured maximum approval chances.

2. Property Portfolio Preparation
Astons presented a curated portfolio of new, high-quality, business-class apartments. Rahul selected a fully finished and equipped unit in a gated Piraeus development which is ideal for rental and long-term capital growth. A 10% deposit secured the property.

3. Document Preparation
Using a power of attorney, Astons’ Greek attorney signed the purchase agreement at the notary. Rahul was able to complete the purchase remotely, without travelling to Greece.

4. Application Submission
Once the property, taxes, government fees, and medical insurance were in order, Astons submitted the residency application electronically.

5. Processing and Approval
The application was processed promptly. After developer confirmation of payment, approval took approximately 10 days.

6. Issuance of Temporary Entry Permit
The family received the “White Paper”, a temporary entry permit, granting up to one year to travel to Greece and complete biometrics.

7. Biometrics Appointment
The family visited Greece to provide fingerprints and photos (mandatory for all applicants over six years old).

8. Residency Card Issuance
Six months after the property purchase, Astons’ attorney collected and shipped the 5-year renewable residency cards to Dubai. All four family members obtained full Greek residency who;e maintaining investment compliance.

Current Investment Thresholds | Global Comparison of RBI Programs

Key Insights:

• Greece offers one of the most accessible pathways to EU residency with low investment thresholds and no minimum stay requirements.
• Malta and Hungary are similarly flexible for investors seeking minimal travel obligations.
• Portugal and Cyprus require some physical presence, which may affect lifestyle planning.
• Italy’s program focuses on business investments, making it ideal for entrepreneurs but requiring a longer commitment.

Investment Breakdown: Piraeus Apartment