By S. Zisimos
Some 4,154 “golden visas” – long-term residence permits – were granted from 2013 until the first quarter of 2019 to non-EU citizens linked with the purchase of real estate in Greece exceeding 250,000 euros.
The number was given amid the implementation of a new law (4605/2019) extending the terms for issuance of a “golden visa” to individuals that invest in Greek securities, such as shares of ATHEX-listed companies, Greek state bonds or with money deposited in Greek banks.
In 2018 alone, 1,399 such long-term residence permits were granted.
Including dependents, the program affects 11,445 people
Chinese nationals were granted the “lion’s share” of the permits, 2,416, followed by Russian nationals and Turks.