The Portugal Golden Visa and Greece Golden Visa programs stand as two of the most sought-after residency by investment initiatives globally. Positioned at the forefront of countries offering such programs, Portugal and Greece provide accessible pathways for individuals seeking European residency or citizenship through investment.
These programs not only offer an opportunity for residency but also pave the way for a potential path to citizenship, making them attractive options for investors looking to establish a foothold in Europe.
Greece vs. Portugal Golden Visa Overview
Greece Golden Visa
- Initiated in 2013
- Real estate investment ranges from €250,000 to €500,000, depending on location
- Immediate permanent residency for you and your family
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone
- Eligibility for citizenship after 7 years of residency
Portugal Golden Visa
- Established in 2012
- Offers various investment options such as funds, capital transfer, business, and research
- Residency granted for 1-2 years, renewable in 2-year increments
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone
- Citizenship attainable after 5 years with minimal stay requirements – 7 days per year on average
Greece vs. Portugal Golden Visa Benefits
If European living appeals to you, exploring the Greece or Portuguese Golden Visa programs could be your ticket to enjoying the perks of residency on the continent.
Greece vs. Portugal Golden Visa Investment Options
The Portugal Golden Visa and Greece Golden Visa programs present varied investment avenues that could lead to a long-term visa and potentially citizenship. A notable distinction is that Greece retains the option for real estate investment, while Portugal phased it out since October last year.
Under both programs, it’s essential to uphold your investment commitment and make periodic visits to renew your visa every five years.
Greece vs Portugal Golden Visa Requirements
Greece Golden Visa Requirements
- Age: 18 or older.
- Criminal record: Must be clean.
- Health insurance: Required.
- Financial means: Must be sufficient to live in Greece
- Residency status: Legal.
- Citizenship Eligibility: after seven years of legal residency
Portugal Golden Visa Requirements
- Age: 18 or older.
- Criminal record: Must be clean.
- Health insurance: Required.
- Financial means: Must be sufficient to support yourself and your family.
- Residency status: Legal.
- No previous Schengen visa refusals
- Citizenship Eligibility: after five years of residency in the country
Portugal vs Greece Golden Visa Application Fees
When submitting your application, please take into account the Immigration Office fees, which encompass both the permit fees and biometrics/application fees. These fees are applicable per person and it is important to note that they are subject to annual revisions.
Portugal Golden Visa Fees
- Application: €580,31
- Residency Permit: €5,797.58
- Renewal: €2,899.34
- Legal Fees: can range from €5,000 to €10,000
Greece Golden Visa Fees
- Application: €2,000 per main applicant
- Application: €500 per family member
- Residency Permit: €16
- Legal Fees: around €5,000
Greece vs Portugal Golden Visa Taxes
Obtaining a Golden Visa doesn’t automatically classify you as a tax resident in either Portugal or Greece. Tax residency is determined by spending more than 183 days in either country.
Greece vs Portugal Golden Visa Citizenship Requirements
Both Portugal and Greece offer highly appealing pathways to citizenship through their respective Golden Visa programs. These programs grant individuals the opportunity to live, work, and study in any European Union country and, after meeting certain residency requirements, to apply for citizenship and obtain a passport.
This presents a valuable opportunity for those seeking to establish long-term roots in Europe and enjoy the benefits of EU citizenship, including freedom of movement within the Schengen Area and access to various social and economic opportunities across the continent.
Greece Golden Visa vs Portugal: Which program should I choose?
When deliberating between the Portugal Golden Visa and Greece, it’s vital to consider several factors to determine the best fit for your unique circumstances.
If your main goal is property investment, Greece offers a range of possibilities, with options starting from €250,000 to €500,000 depending on location. Portugal recently discontinued real estate as an investment avenue under its Golden Visa program, making Greece the more favorable choice in this aspect.
For those aspiring for citizenship, Portugal’s Golden Visa program presents a faster route, with eligibility achievable after just five years of residency and a minimum stay requirement of seven days per year on average. In contrast, Greece mandates a residency period of at least seven years, with a minimum of 183 days spent in the country each year.
If language proficiency poses a challenge, both countries necessitate passing a language exam. However, Portugal’s program offers a less demanding fluency requirement.
In essence, each Golden Visa program comes with its own set of pros and cons. The optimal selection depends on a thorough assessment of your personal situation, investment objectives, and lifestyle preferences.
Why choose us for your Golden Visa Application?
Local Expertise
We know Portugal. Due to our extensive local knowledge, we believe that concentrating our services in a single country destination is the best way to give you the most thorough and useful information.
Holistic Approach
One single channel of communication for the entire process. We provide you with a comprehensive service that covers all aspects of your move, from identifying the ideal residency visa to finding your new home or helping you to settle.
Transparent Service
We recommend what’s best for you base on an extensive process experience that saves time and money to clients. Our pricing is clear and competitive, and we don’t sell services that make us more money.
Simple Process
Technology plays a very important role in our company. We minimize our clients’ involvement in paperwork. We are customers ourselves and we know how to serve you.
Frequently asked questions about Greece vs. Portugal Golden Visa
What is the minimum investment required for the Greece Golden Visa?
The minimum investment for the Greece Golden Visa varies depending on the location and type of investment, typically ranging from €250,000 to €500,000.
How long does it take to become eligible for citizenship through the Greece Golden Visa program?
Citizenship eligibility is attainable after seven years of residency in Greece, with a minimum stay requirement.
What are the investment options available under the Greece Golden Visa program?
The main investment option is real estate, with various properties available for investment across Greece.
Can I travel freely within the Schengen Area with a Greece Golden Visa?
Yes, holders of the Greece Golden Visa enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.
What are the investment options available under the Portugal Golden Visa program?
The Portugal Golden Visa program offers various investment options, including funds, capital transfer, business investment, and research.
What is the residency duration granted under the Portugal Golden Visa program?
Residency is initially granted for 1-2 years and is renewable in 2-year increments.
Are there any recent changes or updates to the Portugal Golden Visa program?
Yes, real estate investment option was removed from the Portugal Golden Visa program October 2023.
