Greece's Golden Visa 2026 Major Expansion: New Startup Investor Track Launched — Full Guide to EU Residency Options
Greece has significantly expanded its Golden Visa program in 2026, adding a new startup investor track (5-year residency) while maintaining the €250,000 real estate investment option. As other countries tighten golden visa rules, Greece expands — offering overseas Chinese investors a new EU residency pathway. This article analyzes the policy details, investment requirements, and application strategies.
In 2026, the Greek government has significantly expanded its Golden Visa program, adding a new startup investor track alongside the traditional real estate investment option, offering foreign investors a fresh pathway to EU residency.
Against the backdrop of multiple popular immigration countries (Spain, Portugal, Ireland, etc.) closing or tightening their golden visa programs, Greece's expansion signals a continued appetite for foreign capital.
Under the latest policy, Greece's Golden Visa offers the following investment pathways:
1. Real Estate Investment (Traditional Track)
- Minimum investment: €250,000 (maintained in some regions)
- Threshold raised to €400,000-€800,000 in prime areas (Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, etc.)
- Long-term rental only; short-term rental (Airbnb-style) not permitted
- Includes spouse, children under 21, and both parents
2. Startup Investment (New 2026 Track)
- Minimum investment: Yet to be finalized, estimated €250,000-€400,000 range
- Five-year renewable residency permit
- No physical residence requirement in Greece
- Targets foreign investors backing Greek-registered startups
- Visa-free access to 29 Schengen countries
3. Fund/Equity Investment
- Minimum €400,000 in Greek government bonds, stocks, or real estate investment companies
- Suitable for investors who prefer not to directly hold property