Golden Visa programs have grown in popularity recently as a means for foreign investors to obtain residency and eventually citizenship in Europe. With two unique yet appealing residency-by-investment programs, Italy and Greece stand out among the other alternatives. Both nations provide enticing lifestyles, long-term advantages for families, and access to the EU. They are appropriate for various investor types, nevertheless, because to variations in investment levels, residency requirements, and long-term benefits. To assist you in choosing which Golden Visa program best suits your needs, this essay contrasts the perks, expenses, and lifestyle of the Italian and Greek programs.
Investment Requirements and Program Structure
The Investor Visa for Italy, often known as Italy Golden Visa program, provides a number of qualified investment avenues. For investments in creative startups, the starting requirement is €250,000. Additional choices include €2 million in government bonds, €1 million in charitable contributions, or €500,000 in an Italian limited company. It’s crucial to remember that the Italian Golden Visa does not allow investments in real estate. This makes the program especially appropriate for people who want to support social projects or make corporate investments in Italy.
In contrast, Greece is renowned for offering one of Europe’s easiest Golden Visa applications. The minimum real estate investment is €250,000. A recent revision, however, raised this to €500,000 in popular destinations including Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, and Thessaloniki. Real estate is still the most popular option because of its ease of use and the immediate advantages of property ownership, but there are other options as well, such as leasing agreements for hospitality firms or investments in shares and bonds.
Residency and Citizenship Pathways
A two-year residency permit is initially granted by Italy and can be renewed for additional three-year terms. You can apply for permanent residency after five years of legal residency, and if you continue to live there and speak the language, you can become a citizen after ten years.
Greece Golden Visa, on the other hand, grants a residency permit that is renewable for five years and does not need physical presence in the nation. However, you must live in Greece for a minimum of seven years and fulfill other requirements, such proving your language proficiency and social integration, if you plan to petition for citizenship. Greece’s flexibility is a big plus for investors who don’t want to move right away.
Family Inclusion and Benefits
Applicants may include members of their immediate family in both programs. Italy allows dependent parents, spouses, and small children to be included. The investor’s spouse, children under 21, and both the investor’s and their spouse’s parents may be included on the same application in Greece, which is a little more inclusive. Greece is particularly appealing to multigenerational families looking to settle together because of its expanded family eligibility.
Lifestyle and Practical Considerations
When deciding between these two Mediterranean nations, lifestyle is a major factor. Italy has a world-class culture, excellent healthcare and educational systems, and a high level of living. It’s perfect for people who want to move to Europe and experience life there more thoroughly.
Greece, on the other hand, provides beautiful coastlines, island living, and moderate weather, along with a more laid-back and reasonably priced way of life. Retirees or digital nomads seeking more personal independence and reduced living expenses without having to relocate are particularly drawn to it.
Conclusion
Though they serve different investor types, Italy and Greece both provide attractive routes to EU residency through their Golden Visa schemes. For people who are willing to reach greater financial thresholds, are interested in commercial or social investment, and may be considering relocation, Italy is a better option. For individuals looking for flexible, low-maintenance residency options with family inclusion and lifestyle benefits, as well as real estate prospects, Greece is increasingly alluring. Your decision will ultimately be influenced by your long-term ambitions for residing or conducting business in Europe, your investing preferences, and your mobility objectives.
