3 min.

Greek government extends deadline for golden visa deals under old rules: key changes and what investors need to know

Published on
January 8, 2025

The Greek government has decided to extend the deadline for completing transactions under the Golden Visa program.

Investors who have paid deposits and signed preliminary agreements by December 31, 2024, now have until almost the end of winter—February 28, 2025—to finalize all necessary procedures.

This decision is expected to benefit approximately 3,000 participants of the program, enabling them to purchase property and complete all transactions and documentation under the old Golden Visa rules.

Changes to Greece’s Golden Visa Program

As a reminder, changes to the minimum investment threshold for participation in the program came into effect on September 1, 2024:

  • €800,000 – for properties in major cities and popular tourist destinations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini.
  • €400,000 – for properties in other regions of the country.

However, applications submitted before August 31, 2024, remained eligible under the previous threshold of €250,000, provided the transactions were completed by the end of 2024. Now, this period has been extended until the end of winter.

The extension allows investors more time to complete procedures and reinforces the Golden Visa program’s reputation as an essential economic tool for attracting investments, enabling them to finalize transactions and register property rights as stipulated by the program.

Why Did Greek Authorities Grant Investors More Time?

The extension was a necessary measure, as acknowledged by the government. The main reason: delays in completing transactions. Investors who had already paid deposits risked losing their funds due to bureaucratic challenges and the limited timeframe for document processing.

This decision aims to prevent deal cancellations, financial losses, and legal disputes while strengthening trust in the Golden Visa program as a reliable instrument for attracting foreign capital.

Share this post

Stay updated with the latest news – subscribe to our newsletter!

Renty blog

Learn something new about STR business every week
January 8, 2025
3 min.

Greek government extends deadline for golden visa deals under old rules: key changes and what investors need to know

The Greek government has decided to extend the deadline for completing transactions under the Golden Visa program.
December 13, 2024
6 min.

What you need to know about purchasing real estate after renovations

Unapproved renovations can be a costly mistake
December 5, 2024
5 min.

Experts voice concerns over new Golden Visa rules in Greece: should investors worry?

What’s next for Greece’s Golden Visa program: is it still worth investing?
December 2, 2024
10 min.

Deloitte experts predict real estate market in Greece to grow

Thriving residential market, economic growth and new urban projects
December 1, 2024
9 min

What do you pay for when purchasing a property in Greece?

Here's a breakdown of the taxes and fees involved in buying an apartment in Greece.
October 29, 2024
10 min.

Short-Term Rentals Are Banned: What Should Golden Visa Property Owners Do After September 1, 2024?

How to Generate Income and Retain Your Greek Residency Under New Conditions
October 22, 2024
6 min.

Greece Poised to Become the Best Place to Live by 2027

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis made this bold promise during his speech at the Thessaloniki International Fair.
October 14, 2024
7 min.

Three "Golden" Keys to the Greek Real Estate Market

New tax incentives for vacant properties and restrictions on Airbnb licenses
October 11, 2024
5 min.

Translation of the Official Explanatory Circular on Golden Visa Updates: Key Facts Extracted

The article provides an overview of the updated regulations related to the Greek Golden Visa program, focusing on the new property investment thresholds, tax obligations, and restrictions on renting properties in the sharing economy (e.g., Airbnb). One of the key updates is a prohibition on short-term rentals and subletting for certain properties.
October 8, 2024
10 min.

The Slow Have Become the Leaders: Greece Ranks Among the EU’s Top Economic Performers

Greece Ranks Among the EU’s Top Economic Performers
October 4, 2024
7 min.

The Price of Greek Real Estate: A Steady Climb Upward

Greece’s housing market is marking a decade of growth with yet another price surge
September 30, 2024
7 min.

Short-Term Rentals for New Properties in Central Athens Banned from 2025: What Does This Mean for the Real Estate Market?

Starting in 2025, strict restrictions on new short-term rental properties will take effect in central Athens
September 17, 2024
11 min.

New Golden Visa Rules in Greece: How to Obtain Residency with a €250,000 Property Investment After September 1st, 2024

For those short on time: choose property reclassified from commercial to residential.
September 19, 2024
7 min.

Apartments in Athens for €250,000 Are Still Available: How to Invest Smart and Obtain a Golden Visa

As of September 1st, 2024, new changes to Greece’s Golden Visa program have raised the minimum investment threshold to €400,000. However, despite the new rules, investors can still purchase apartments in central Athens for €250,000 and qualify for residency.
September 12, 2024
1 min

The Greek Parliament made final changes to the "golden visa" program: the transition period will be shortened. You have until August 31st.

One of the most notable updates is the reduction of the transition period for the new regulations. Previously, applicants had until the end of 2024 to comply with or adjust to changes in the program's requirements. However, with the new legislation, this transition period has been shortened to August 31, 2024, making it imperative for those interested in securing a Golden Visa to act swiftly.
June 28, 2024
10 min.

How Much Can You Earn from Investing in Real Estate?

Michael Albaum was just 23 when he began his real estate journey, eyeing a modest supplement to his engineering salary. Today, he owns 61 rental units and grosses $431,000 annually, illustrating the lucrative potential of real estate investment. His initial aim to manage one or two properties evolved into a diverse portfolio, reshaping his life and income.
June 28, 2024
9 min.

Athens Real Estate: Top Reasons to Invest Now

Athens has become a focal point for small and medium-sized investors. Here are 10 reasons why.
June 28, 2024
5 min.

Purchasing Property in Greece: The Total Cost

Many beginner investors mistakenly believe that the cost of buying European property is solely the amount advertised as the purchase price. In this article, we will uncover all the additional expenses that accompany the process of acquiring European real estate.
June 28, 2024
8 min.

Where Should You Invest in Real Estate in Europe for Maximum Returns?

Europe's Top Property Markets
June 28, 2024
11 min.

Understanding the Real Estate Market and Selecting the Right Property in Athens

A Practical Guide to Real Estate Investments in Athens for 2024
June 28, 2024
13 min.

European Short-Term Rental Business: Your 7 Step Entry Plan

Discover best places for buying short-term rental property in Europe
June 28, 2024
20 min.

Unlocking Europe's Untapped Potential: A Comprehensive Guide to Investing in EU Short-Term Rental Market

A closer look at the vacation rentals market in Europe.
June 28, 2024
15 min.

Airbnb Amenity Сhecklist: a List of Items to Buy for Your Short-Term Rental

Here’s to hosting’ calm & comfort: the essential and smart amenities guide for 2023
June 28, 2024
18 min.

Real Estate Investment in Greece: Top Districts in Athens to Invest in

The key to successful property investment, whether for living or ROI, lies in choosing the right neighborhood. Using Athens as a case study, we've developed a model to quickly assess its investment potential.
June 28, 2024
10 min.

Rent Your Property in Greece: The Legal Route

A brief look into the regulatory frameworks for leasing real estate under short-term rentals (STRs) in Greece.
June 28, 2024
6 min

Hosting on Airbnb vs. Booking: How Much Time Does It Really Take?

Have a rental vacation and get a side hustle? Sounds promising, but what about the time that goes by while managing it? After testing the most popularly selected Online Travel Agents (OTA) platforms we analyzed and measured the resources needed for a real estate management. We hope our research becomes a time saver for you so you can spend your precious time on more pleasant things.
September 6, 2024
10 min

REITs Explained: Types, Alternatives, Pros & Cons

If you’re looking for a simple and easy way to start investing in real estate without a huge cash investment, a Real Estate Investment Trust or REIT may be the answer. According to the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (NAREIT), in October 2020, approximately 145 million Americans lived in households invested in REITs either through their 401(k) or through IRAs, pension plans, and other investment funds.

Invest In Real 

Estate With Renty

Get a weekly newsletter of current and profitable real estate