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4,154 ‘golden visas’ issued since 2013; Chinese nationals in first place

By S. Zisimos

[email protected]

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.