Greece plans to increase the Property Transfer Tax for buyers from non-EU countries from 3% to 15%. The proposed change is expected to take effect on 1 July 2027.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced the measure at the Thessaloniki International Fair. The government has linked the planned increase to efforts to balance foreign demand for residential property and improve housing affordability for local residents.
How Much Could Property Purchase Costs Increase?
The proposed increase would have a significant impact on the transaction costs faced by non-EU property buyers.
For a property valued at €250,000, a 3% transfer tax currently amounts to approximately €7,500. At a 15% rate, the same calculation would result in a tax of €37,500, an increase of €30,000.
For an €800,000 property, the corresponding amount would rise from approximately €24,000 at the current 3% rate to €120,000 at 15%, a difference of €96,000.
| Property Value | Current 3% Tax | Proposed 15% Tax | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| €250,000 | €7,500 | €37,500 | +€30,000 |
| €800,000 | €24,000 | €120,000 | +€96,000 |
The change is particularly relevant while Greece’s 24% VAT on qualifying new-build property remains suspended. The relatively low property transfer tax has kept acquisition costs lower for transactions subject to this tax rather than VAT.
What Could This Mean for Greece Golden Visa Buyers?
The announcement may increase interest in completing property transactions before the new rate takes effect on 1 July 2027.
This is particularly relevant to the €250,000 Greece Golden Visa property route. Qualifying properties at this threshold are limited to specific categories, including commercial properties converted to residential use and listed buildings requiring restoration.
Availability can be narrower still for properties that combine Golden Visa eligibility with established locations, suitable construction standards and complete documentation for the transaction.
New qualifying projects are expected to continue entering the market. However, projects that receive the necessary permits closer to or after the tax change may no longer be available for acquisition under the current transfer-tax regime.
Greece Golden Visa Property Options From €250,000
Astons’ Athens-based team of lawyers, brokers and real estate experts works with properties that meet the requirements of the Greece Golden Visa program while also assessing factors such as location, construction quality and long-term property potential.
The current portfolio includes qualifying properties from €250,000, including new developments, off-market projects, properties close to the Athens Riviera and marinas, developments in northern Athens and projects near The Ellinikon.
Astons supports investors throughout the process, from property selection and legal checks to completion of the purchase and submission of the Greece Golden Visa application.
Nasos Fousias
Head of Property Department in Greece
